The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is celebrating its fifth annual Tennessee Valley Railfest
on Sept. 12-13, at the Grand Junction Depot off Cromwell Road in Chattanooga. The weekend event is the annual celebration of the love of trains and railroading.
“Railfest is a great event for everyone to come out and celebrate their love of trains at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum” said Steve Freer, TVRM spokesperson. “We are proud to have Norfolk Southern’s 9-1-1 and Veterans commemorative locomotives on site for the event this year.
In honor of the brave men who lost their lives on July 17 we are offering free admission to first responders and active military. We will have live demonstrations, music, train rides to East Chattanooga featuring turntable demonstrations and a visit to our repair and restoration shop. This year we are adding Steam powered excursions to Cleveland each day.”
The daily Railfest admission is $25 adults and $20 children (3-12). For an upgraded ticket of $45 one can take a steam excursion train to Cleveland, pulled by the grand lady Locomotive #4501, on Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m. or 2 p.m. The Cleveland excursion ticket includes entry to Railfest on either day. Missionary Ridge Local train rides, petting zoo, children’s activities, miniature train exhibits, roving magician, inflatables, mini-golf, inflatables and unique food round out a fun weekend for children of all ages. Live entertainment for Railfest includes folk and country, featuring the Norfolk Southern’s Band, The Lawmen on Saturday and Sunday. Also appearing both days will be the group No Big Deal. Parking is free on site at 4119 Cromwell Road. Hours for Railfest are Saturday, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is the Southeast’s largest operating historical museum whose mission is to preserve railroading history for future generations. Railfest is held in partnership with Norfolk Southern, Coca-Cola, Pizza Hut, and the Chattanooga Times Free Press. Visit online at tvrail.com or call 423 894-8028 for tickets and information for Railfest and other train rides.