Kalamazoo's Holly Jolly Trolley

Normally, folks waiting for public transportation in downtown Kalamazoo are accustomed to hearing the screech of bus brakes and the whoosh of automatic doors. But during the holiday season, you might hear a cheerful "Ding, ding! Ding, ding!" instead, as Kalamazoo again offers free downtown transportation during the holiday season with the charmingly-named and brightly decorated Holly Jolly Trolley.

Sponsored by Downtown Kalamazoo, Inc. and several area businesses, the Holly Jolly Trolley was originally conceived for the convenience of downtown pedestrians and holiday shoppers in navigating construction. Because of the immediate popularity of the trolley, it has been brought back yearly since 2005.

Holly Jolly Trolley Features
In the looks and charm department, the trolley has a lot more going for it than a regular old city bus. The trolley features:

- Old-fashioned-looking wood and brass fixtures
- Festive garland and Christmas lights
- Heated interior
- Open back for sightseeing
- Special area for kids near the driver, where they can help ring the bell
- Free downtown transportation

The Holly Jolly Trolley Route
The trolley has a route that spans some of the more popular downtown Kalamazoo destinations and the total trip takes about 20 minutes. It runs from November 26 through December 31, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., except for shortened holiday hours on Christmas Eve and a longer New Year's Eve service.

Trolley stops include:

- All downtown parking garages and major facilities
- Bronson Park
- Kalamazoo Mall
- The Rave Theater
- Kalamazoo Ave. and Michigan Ave.

The Holly Jolly Trolley Schedule
For more details and to see the Holly Jolly Trolley schedule, route map, and transit times, check out: http://www.downtownkalamazoo.org/Visit/Transportation/Holly-Jolly-Trolley-2009.aspx.

The Holly Jolly Trolley has a lot going for it. Not only is Kalamazoo's holiday trolley cute, free, and a fun activity for kids and grownups alike, but according to DowntownKalamazoo.org, it even has it's own little jingle. Sing the words below to the tune of Burl Ives' "Holly Jolly Christmas" - it's actually pretty cute:

"Ride the Holly Jolly Trolley, Central City's winter cheer!
Check out shops, and dining spots; entertainment is in gear.
Ride the Holly Jolly Trolley;
Our downtown will dazzle you!
Have a seat and save your feet here in the jew-wel of K A L A M A Z O O !!"
-from DowntownKalamazoo.org

Sources:
DowntownKalamazoo.org