RailFest is chugging its way into Plant City for its second year, and there will be activities and learning opportunities for railroad enthusiasts of all ages.
Last year, the City of Plant City hosted RailFest. But now that the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum has been established as an independent, nonprofit organization, the museum society will be organizing the event.
New this year, the museum directors will be hosting the Golden Spike Awards, which they hope will become an annual tradition.
The awards are for people who have gone above and beyond to demonstrate their commitment to the museum. The honorees will be revealed at RailFest.
RailFest will be collaborating with the Central Florida Bluegrass Association, which has planned a bluegrass jam for the same day and time, in McCall Park.
“We’re real big about supporting local stuff anyway, so that’s one of the things we decided to do together,” museum board president Eric Barber said.
Since the Christmas season, directors of the museum have been working on plans for a museum-themed puzzle and an original coloring book to teach children about railroad safety. These items will be available for the first time at RailFest.
The puzzle, on sale for $16, features a photograph of the museum’s red caboose, donated by Robert Willaford. Only 105 puzzles have been created, making them an exclusive collector’s item. The museum directors hope to release a puzzle with a new photo annually.
The coloring books, intended for elementary-age children, were designed by a local high school student and artist Mina Geist.
“She’s an amazing artist,” Barber said.
Geist’s drawings will be in the style of Japanese manga, which Barber thought would make a unique coloring book, because it’s not a style that is used often.
RailFest will also have a trackless train and other activities that children will love.
“We’re going to have a lot of giveaways for kids. It’s definitely going to be kid-oriented,” Barber said.
Visitors to RailFest will be able to take one last look at the museum tower before it is renovated and its termite damage is repaired. If so desired, they can make donations to put toward its upkeep.
For more information about RailFest, visit the museum’s newly unveiled website at WillafordRailroadMuseum.com.
IF YOU GO
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 14 (Most activities will occur before 2 p.m.)
Where: Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, 102 N. Palmer St., Plant City
Cost: Free
More Information: (813) 719-6989, Willaford RailroadMuseum.com
Contact Catherine Sinclair at csinclair@plantcityobserver.com.