SEPTA is preparing to host its annual Holiday Vehicle Decorating Competition, a tradition designed to promote creativity, teamwork, and festive spirit among its employees. Maintenance and transportation staff from the system’s eleven bus and trolley districts volunteer their time to transform vehicles into holiday-themed displays that will compete for top recognition this year.

The event will take place on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Frankford Transportation Center, Dock #2, on Frankford Avenue in Philadelphia. The awards ceremony will follow from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Frankford District building. SEPTA General Manager Scott Sauer will participate alongside bus operators, maintenance personnel, students from Freire Charter School, and DJ Pedro Ramirez. The celebration will also be livestreamed on SEPTA’s official YouTube channel.

Each district develops its own theme and design, making the competition a vibrant showcase of employee talent and dedication. A panel of judges made up of Philadelphia business leaders will evaluate the entries and select the first-, second-, and third-place winners. Local television personalities will also join as guest judges.

As part of the festivities, eight decorated buses will be on public display at Love Park on December 6 and 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Visitors will be able to vote for their favorite design in the People’s Choice Awards, with voting closing on Sunday, December 7 at 2:00 p.m.

SEPTA has advised that parking at the Frankford District location is limited and recommends that media representatives park near 5223 Frankford Avenue. For additional questions or details, a media phone line is available at 267-546-6689.