MTA To Ban Alcohol On LIRR And Metro North Trains Over SantaCon

LONG ISLAND, NY — Long Islanders headed to SantaCon can forget about getting their drink on aboard Manhattan-bound Long Island Rail Road trains while traveling to and from SantaCon this weekend.

As in years past, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is banning alcohol consumption on LIRR and Metro-North Railroad trains during the convention, beginning 4 a.m. on Saturday through 12:00 p.m. on Sunday. Alcohol consumption will also be prohibited at all platforms.

The MTA Police Department will have an increased presence at Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal to enforce the weekend alcohol restriction, MTA officials said Wednesday. Police have plans to confiscate alcoholic beverages and issue summonses and violators can also expect to be taken off trains or removed from stations by police.

MTA Police Chief Joseph McGrann said there may be riders coming back to the train for the first time since the start of the pandemic, noting, "it is important we do everything we can to maintain orderly travel so that everyone can enjoy their holiday plans by getting to their destinations smoothly and on time.”

Officials also warned that masks and/or face coverings must be worn on all trains and remain on for the duration of one’s trip.