Festive SEPTA buses are decked out for the season

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (WTXF) - People hop on and off SEPTA buses every single day, but usually not with eyes this bright and smiles so big.

"It's really cool. We walked inside. We loved number one," said SEPTA rider Jen Fanelli.

Several buses have been transformed for the holidays at the hands of SEPTA drivers and maintenance crews. They were excited to show FOX 29 around.

"The fireplace sets the tone and it's my super favorite part. It's so cozy in here and it has music!" said SEPTA driver Larae Deas.

It's a friendly and fun competition between bus districts and Callowhill driver turned decorator Larae Deas confirms it's also a bonding experience. She was in charge of balloons and bright colored seat covers. SEPTA employees donated their money and time to this spirited project.

"I feel like a three-year-old in a Disney store. I'm just so excited! This is my favorite time of year. I've enjoyed doing it," Larae explained.

"We're trying to change the culture in the organization and get people to be more united in what we do here as an organization," George Spellman, Director of Customer Development with SEPTA, said.

As they spread holiday cheer to passengers and passersby, the SEPTA buses also serve as another free festive photo op for families.

"The buses are amazing. They did great work on the inside. They're really cool," said SEPTA rider Phil Dedominic.

"I think it's a really nice thing to do for the community. It's a nice event. All these buses here are nice," said another SEPTA rider, Joe Fanelli.

Only some of the buses are in operation. Others are simply a decoration on wheels outside of the SEPTA headquarters. People voted for their favorites. Cassidy Yates of Ocean City, New Jersey loved Larae Deas gingerbread bus.

"When you saw it, it looked colorful and it looked like a real, live gingerbread house," Yates explained.

The buses will be popping up at spots throughout Philadelphia through Christmas.