The biggest night of the year is just around the corner and Molson Coors wants to make sure you're focused on having fun without having to worry about how to safely get home. Once again, the company is teaming up with CTA to offer free rides on New Year's Eve.
Riders will get to enjoy a no-cost trip on CTA from 10pm on December 31 through 4m on January 1, 2026.
Whether you’re celebrating with midnight fireworks at Navy Pier or heading out to a party, bar or restaurant across the city, every bus and train ride during those hours is on the house. Just hop on and go.
The Free Rides program has been around since 1988 and it’s grown into a major New Year’s tradition in cities across the country. With nearly 10 million complimentary rides provided nationwide, it’s one of Molson Coors' longest-standing efforts tied to responsible drinking. Last year alone, over 440,000 people used the service, the biggest turnout the program has seen.
"At Molson Coors, our brands have always been part of the special moments that bring people together, and the Free Rides program reflects our commitment to celebrating responsibly," said Alison Hanrahan, community affairs manager at Molson Coors, in an official statement. "CTA is an integral part of how Chicago stays connected, and we’re proud to partner with them once again to help people get home safely this New Year’s Eve."
The partnership between the CTA and Miller High Life highlights a simple idea: if you’re going out, you should have an easy and safe way to get back. Molson Coors sponsors similar ride programs throughout the year during festivities like St. Patrick’s Day and major sports weekends. The Free Rides program will continue nationwide in 2026. Beyond Chicago, free rides will be offered in Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Milwaukee, Phoenix and Washington, D.C.
So as you make your New Year's Eve plans, check the CTA trip planner at trip planner at transitchicago.com. It's likely you'll find a bus or train route that will get you where you want to go and back home safely after a night of celebrating. Happy early New Year, folks!
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