Train travel is easy, relaxing and fun for all ages! You can celebrate your love of trains by participating in National Train Day 2011 on May 7. This event is a fairly new tradition, begun in 2008 by Amtrak to spread the word from coast to coast about the pleasures of train travel. This year Amtrak will be celebrating their 40th anniversary of passenger service with major events across the country.
Gladys Knight, the “Empress of Soul,” is the National Rail Day Spokesperson. Her famous hit “Midnight Train to Georgia” expressed her deep connection to train travel. She will kick off the festivities with a concert in New York City on May 5 and host a signature meet and greet event in Washington, DC’s Union Station on May 7. In addition to NY and DC, Philadelphia, Los Angeles and Chicago will also be hosting National Train Day celebrations including:
- Special exhibits relating to each city’s train history
- Amtrak high-speed rail displays
- K-9 Unit demonstrations
- Culinary demonstrations and sample meals in Amtrak dining cars
- Modern and historic train equipment displays
- AmtraKids Depot with fun arts and crafts and cookie decoration
- Live entertainment
Many other communities across the US are hosting National Train Day events as well. Click here to find an event near you or train enthusiasts can even host their own.
You can also contact Covington to plan your own rail adventure!
Leave a Reply