Bratislava is embracing the holiday spirit with a unique and expanding tradition: festively decorated public transportation. This year, the city’s transport authority, DPB, is rolling out not only the popular “Musical Christmas Tram,” designed by Saki Matsumoto, but also a decorated trolleybus and bus to spread cheer throughout December. The initiative aims to enhance the Christmas atmosphere for residents and visitors alike, and this year includes a charitable component with onboard concerts benefiting the Javorinská Social Services Center.
Bratislava’s public transportation system is adding a festive touch to the holiday season with a fleet of decorated vehicles, including a special “Musical Christmas Tram.” The tram, adorned with scenes from classic Christmas carols and a vibrant color scheme, aims to bring holiday cheer to commuters throughout December.
The centerpiece of the holiday fleet is the Musical Christmas Tram, designed by Saki Matsumoto. The exterior of the tram features imagery inspired by well-known Christmas songs, designed to stand out particularly after dark when combined with the city’s holiday lighting. Inside, passengers will experience the scent of a fresh Christmas tree and have the opportunity to contribute to the decorations by writing their own holiday wishes.
“I am pleased that once again this year, not one but two Christmas trams, as well as a decorated trolleybus and bus, will enhance the Christmas atmosphere of our city,” said Bratislava Mayor Matúš Vallo. “The Christmas tram is already a city tradition that we can hardly imagine Christmas in Bratislava without. The fact that a bus and trolleybus are being added this year is excellent news. I believe that many Bratislava residents and visitors will use these festive vehicles and enjoy their journey through the decorated streets of our city. It’s a pleasant experience not only for parents with children, but for everyone.”
This year, the city’s transportation authority, DPB, has expanded its holiday fleet to reach more passengers. The Musical Christmas Tram will also host a series of charitable concerts throughout December, with proceeds benefiting the Javorinská Social Services Center.
“This year, we have expanded our Christmas fleet to bring the true spirit of the holidays to even more passengers,” said Martin Rybanský, Chairman of the Board of DPB. “I am also very pleased that we are expanding the Musical Christmas Tram project to include a charitable dimension, and I believe that our passengers will appreciate the opportunity to combine a pleasant experience with supporting those in need. I would like to thank all my colleagues at DPB who participated in the preparation of the vehicles. They have once again created something that can bring people together and bring them joy. I cordially invite our passengers, families with children and all those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city to come and enjoy our rides with us.”
Charity Concerts on the Tram
Every Sunday in December, the Musical Christmas Tram will transform into a mobile concert hall. Following the success of last year’s author readings, this year will feature four musical performances, bringing festive melodies to the city streets. Passengers can look forward to chamber concerts by the Women’s Vocal Ensemble Canens on December 7, Katarína Koščová and Daniel Špiner on December 14, Tamara Kramar on December 21, and a special New Year’s Eve warm-up set by Otec Mirec on December 28.
All concerts will be ticketed, as they were last year, to ensure comfortable seating for all passengers. Tickets for the concerts will be available for a symbolic price, with all proceeds going to support the Javorinská Social Services Center, which helps clients develop independence and a connection to nature through gardening projects.
Here is the concert schedule:
December 7, 2025 – Women’s Vocal Ensemble CANENS
December 14, 2025 – Katarína Koščová and Daniel Špiner
December 21, 2025 – Tamara Kramar
December 28, 2025 – Otec Mirec New Year’s Eve warm-up
