From today, a special Christmas tram is operating in the Belgian capital. The tram has special Christmas decorations as well as mood lighting in the carriages. It operates on six different lines and next Wednesday, Father Christmas will also come along for the ride.
‘We think it is important to give our regulars, on public transport in Brussels, a special surprise from time to time, to add a little je ne sais quoi to their daily journey,’ explains Laurent Vermeersch of Brussels local transport company MIVB. ‘It’s only the second time we run a Christmas tram through Brussels. On the outside, the tram has decorations in red, green, and a touch of gold. Inside, there are baubles and other Christmas decorations hanging from the ceiling, stars as well mood lighting.’
Christmas music in Brussels metro stations
Brussels’ Christmas tram runs on six different lines in Brussels until 10 January. ‘It’s operating on lines 9, 18, 19, 81, 82 and 92 in turn. It’s a surprise for the passengers when the Christmas tram arrives at their stop. We are trying to let all parts of Brussels enjoy it. Last year, we were criticised because you could only catch the Christmas tram on one route. So we have expanded it.’
The Brussels local transport company is also conjuring up a Christmas atmosphere in metro stations. ‘On 24 and 25 December, Christmas music can be heard across Brussels metro stations. And on Wednesday 18 December, Father Christmas will climb aboard the Christmas tram on line 92. Between 12.30 PM and 3.30 PM passengers can get their photo taken with Father Christmas. His elf will hand out candy canes,’ Mr Vermeersch explains.