Fans of the CTA Holiday Train could receive complimentary mini cellophane-wrapped candy canes on the Purple Line on Dec. 14.

But many riders asked for the commemorative white, red and green round button which proclaimed that 2016 is the 25th anniversary of the train.

The button is a free and worthy as a unique Chicago-themed collectible, Santa’s elves and supporters felt.

From left, Xia Roberts, 6, of Evanston and Liam Lockwood, also of Evanston, ride the CTA Holiday Train with family on the Dec. 14, 2016 Purple Line. (Photo by Karie Angell Luc/for Chronicle Media)

“The CTA Holiday Train and Bus are iconic Chicago traditions that are enjoyed by thousands every year,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr.

“We’re pleased to expand on that strong Chicago tradition by offering the new Elves’ Workshop Train, which will allow even more customers to experience this unique holiday happening,” he said.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer leads the sleigh driven by Santa Claus at the Linden stop of the CTA Holiday Train on the Dec. 14, 2016 Purple Line.
(Photo by Karie Angell Luc / for Chronicle Media)

The Elves’ Workshop Train is a six-car train that follows the Holiday Train on Saturdays, which are the busiest days, according to the CTA.

Adding to the two trains is the CTA Holiday Bus, which brings festive spirit to bus riders while providing holiday bling to Chicago’s winter.

The CTA Holiday Train runs on multiple lines at different times, advertised in its schedule.

Many Evanstonians boarded the CTA Holiday Train at the Howard Street stop on Dec. 14 and rode the Purple Line to the Linden end-of-the-line and back.

Sugar, the elf, handed candy canes to Liam Lockwood and his father Will Lockwood, both of Evanston. Bells the elf was also in the vicinity.

“It’s very festive,” Liam’s father said, with a smile.

“We’re really excited to be here.”

Right, Xia Roberts, 6, of Evanston looks up at the lights on the CTA Holiday Train with family on the Dec. 14, 2016 Purple Line. On left is Xia’s mother Keiler Roberts of Evanston. (Photo by Karie Angell Luc / for Chronicle Media)

Of the quarter center of the CTA Holiday Train, “That’s a lot of jolliness,” Will Lockwood added.

The Howard Street first stop of the CTA Holiday Train on that Wednesday was at 3:15 p.m., doable for parents on a school day to end just in time for their elementary or preschool-aged children.

“It’s fun, I like it,” said Will Lockwood, whose son Liam said he wanted LEGO arctic-themed brick toys for a holiday gift.

Sharon Hyson of Rogers Park rode Dec. 14 when temperatures were 20 degrees with high winds on the platform, producing a significant elevated wind chill factor.

“It’s just all glittery and glowing,” Hyson said, viewing the lighting of the train.

“It’s freezing cold outside but everybody is so happy.”

Xia Roberts, 6, of Evanston looks up at the lights on the CTA Holiday Train with family on the Dec. 14, 2016 Purple Line.  (Photo by Karie Angell Luc / for Chronicle Media)

Before boarding the train, Hyson spoke of peace.

“We need more happiness in our town and country,” Hyson said. “We’ve got to put down all of this violence and everyone needs to be happy for a bit.”

Santa Claus made an appearance, riding in his sleigh outdoors on the train with his reindeer. Rudolph and his renowned shiny red nose glowed.

Santa warmly greeted visitors.

“I am wonderfully happy,” Santa said. “To see all of these smiling faces and be in this wonderful city at this time of year, I could ask for nothing better.”

Santa Claus, left, greets fans of all ages at the Linden stop of the CTA Holiday Train on the Dec. 14, 2016 Purple Line. (Photo by Karie Angell Luc / for Chronicle Media)

When Santa was asked what he wanted for Christmas, his wish echoed what Sharon Hyson suggested.

“World peace,” Santa said. “Definitely.”

View the schedules at http://www.transitchicago.com/holiday/.

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— CTA holiday train offers ‘bit of happiness’  in December cold–