Courtesy photo.
Inspired by the Beloved Polar Express Christmas Story
OXNARD — Gold Coast Transit District (GCTD) is excited to announce the official launch of its 2025 Holiday Bus, The Holiday Express: Ride into the Magic. Inspired by the timeless Polar Express Christmas story, this year’s festive bus invites riders of all ages to step aboard and experience the wonder of the season.
GCTD hosted a special Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, December 3rd, where community members, staff, and local leaders gathered to witness the unveiling of the transformed bus. Wrapped in winter scenery, twinkling lights and whimsical holiday illustrations, The Holiday Express sets the stage for a magical ride throughout Ventura County.
The Holiday Bus made its public debut on Saturday, December 6th during the Downtown Oxnard Parade—bringing in excitement and even snow to the streets of Downtown Oxnard. Parade spectators were treated to an enchanting preview of what passengers can expect when they hop aboard this year.
Free Rides All December
Throughout the month of December, rides on The Holiday Express are free for everyone. The bus will rotate throughout GCTD’s service area, giving passengers countless opportunities to enjoy the festive atmosphere and celebrate the spirit of community and connection.
Share Your Ride for a Chance to Win
Passengers are invited to capture their magical ride and share it on social media for a chance to win a free 15-Ride Bus Pass. To enter, riders simply need to:
- Snap a selfie or photo aboard The Holiday Express
- Tag Gold Coast Transit District on social media
- Use the hashtag #HolidayExpressontheGO
Winners will be selected in January 2026.
Spreading Joy on Every Route
“The Holiday Bus is one of our favorite traditions,” said Vanessa Rauschenberger, GCTD General Manager. “Each year, we aim to bring joy to our riders and the community. This year’s Holiday Express theme truly brings the magic of the season to life while highlighting shared experiences—on and off the bus.”
GCTD encourages the community to follow along on social media for daily updates, route assignments, and more holiday fun.
Stay Connected:
- Facebook: @GoldCoastTransitDistrict
- “X” (Formerly: Twitter): @GoldCoastBus
- Instagram: @GoldCoastTransit
- LinkedIn: Gold Coast Transit District
- Website: www.gctd.org
- Subscribe to GCTD’s Newsletter here.
About the District: Gold Coast Transit District provides safe, responsive, convenient, efficient, and environmentally responsible fixed-route bus and paratransit public transportation that serves the diverse needs of the cities of Ojai, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, and Ventura, and in the unincorporated County areas between the cities. Utilizing a fleet of 61 clean natural gas-fueled buses, and 26 paratransit buses and vans, GCTD carries 3.6 million passengers annually on its 20 bus routes. GCTD is the largest provider of public transit in Ventura County and is governed by a Board of Directors made up of an elected official from each member jurisdiction.? For more information or to plan your trip, visit www.gctd.org
