Young and old alike will have a chance to meet Thomas the Tank Engine, the beloved and courageous storybook train, along with Sir Topham Hatt when both roll into town in June.
Thomas the Tank Engine is set to chug into the West Coast Railway Heritage Park for the Day Out With Thomas 2009: Hero of the Rails Tour on the weekends of June 6 and 7, and June 13 and 14.
It will be the storybook train's fifth visit to Squamish, which in the past has attracted nearly 18,000 visitors from all over the province.
At 8 a.m. Saturday June 6, Thomas will blow a puff of white smoke and roll his eyes as he chugs out of the station on the first run on his month-long visit. Conductor, Roy Crowston said Thomas attracts crowds because it's a rare treat to see him.
"I have been a conductor for 43 years and people come all the way from Alberta for this event. You see, Thomas doesn't appear in many places in Canada," Crowston said.
Fans will be able to take a 25-minute ride with a 15-ton replica of Thomas the Tank Engine. Kids also have a chance to meet railway controller Sir Topham Hatt, as well as enjoy crafts, storytelling and live music throughout the day.
"The event is close to selling out and we are delighted to have Thomas back," said Susan Steen of West Coast Railway Heritage Park. "It's not just a train ride but a whole day of adventure."
With the help of an army of volunteers, West Cast Railway Heritage Park is transformed into a world of make believe. For many kids it will be the first time they've ever ridden a train.
"Many children will not have ridden a train before, and these small trips give them a piece of our culture," Steen said. "Maybe they will come and visit us again to get a sense of how the rail brought our country together."
The day also includes a merchandise tent that features many new Thomas items, which can be purchased only at a Thomas event.
Tickets for Day Out With Thomas 2009: The Hero of the Rails Tour are on sale now and available by calling Ticketweb toll-free 888-222-6608, or by visiting www.ticketweb.ca/dowt or further information at www.wcra.org. Ticket prices are $20 plus tax for ages two and up.
For more information and directions contact the West Coast Railway Association at www.wcra.org. For information on Thomas & Friends, visit www.thomasandfriends.com
