Railroad enthusiasts from coast to coast have plenty of options when it comes to celebrating the railroad heritage and origins of American towns. Extending through October, railroad festivals offer residents and visitors everything from crafts and music to train rides and talent shows. The line-up this fall includes:
Sept. 9-10
Tennessee Valley Railfest
Chattanooga, Tennessee
This festival is held at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, which bills itself as the largest operating historical museum in the Southeast. The event features Missionary Ridge Local train rides, live music, demonstrations, a petting zoo, children’s activities, exhibits, and displays. Details: www.tvrail.com/events-exhibits/rides/railfest
Sept. 16-18
North Platte Rail Days
North Platte, Nebraska
At the busiest rail freight corridor in the world, rail fans can view a model train and hobby show, take a tour of the Golden Spike Tower, and see the Bailey Yard, where more than 150 trains and 10,000 railcars are processed every 24 hours. Details: www.northplatteraildays.com
Sept. 16-17
Derry Railroad Days
Derry, Pennsylvania
This annual event held at Derry Station Railroad Heritage Park beside the Caboose Museum and Gift Shop features a “hobo picnic,” a parade, entertainment, and food and craft vendors. Details: http://derryborough.org/railroad-festival-days
Sept. 23-24
Folsom Railfest
Folsom, California
Train, motorcar, and hand car rides, railroad equipment displays, model railroads, local history interpretation, delicious food, and fun play for kids are part of this festival held at Hampton Station. Details: www.psvrr.org/folsom-railfest/
October 21-22 and 28-29
Hinton Railroad Days Hinton, West Virginia
Each year for two weekends in October, the streets of Hinton are filled with vendors selling unusual crafts like rings made from coins, coal scrip and old coins, handmade wooden banks with old post office doors, wooden furniture, and more. Food and special events abound, and the New River Train arrives each afternoon. Details: www.hintonwva.com/railroaddays
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