Robert Pettway joins us to talking about the upcoming Railfest celebration.
From a media release:
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is celebrating its 4th Annual Tennessee Valley Railfest on September 6-7 at the Grand Junction Depot off Jersey Pike in Chattanooga. The weekend event is a salute to railroading history with unique excursions and family fun.
"Railfest is a wonderful family event and a unique chance to visit the museum and have an experience we don't typically offer," said Steve Freer, TVRM spokesperson. "We have live demonstrations, shop tours, train rides to East Chattanooga and even an excursion to Chickamauga, Georgia available this year," he added.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum has been in operation for 53 years and created the event as a birthday celebration, but Railfest has expanded to become an event designed to immerse the visitor in living history. Live entertainment for Railfest includes folk & country, featuring the Lawmen on Saturday and Jazz, highlighted by the 9th Street Stompers on Sunday. The daily admission fee is $20 adults and $15 children (3-12). For a $17 upcharge you can take an excursion train to Chickamauga, Georgia on Saturday at 10 am returning at 4:30 pm. Your Chickamauga Turn ticket gets you free entry into Railfest either day. Missionary Ridge Steam excursions, petting zoo, children's activities, miniature train exhibits, roving magician, inflatables, and unique food roundout a fun weekend for children of all ages. Parking is free on site at the Grand Junction Depot at 4119 Cromwell Road.
Hours for Railfest are Saturday, 9 am- 6 pm and Sunday, 10 am-6 pm.
Overnight packages are available through the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel and can be booked online at choochoo.com. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is the Southeast's largest operating historical museum whose mission is to preserve railroading history for future generations. Visit online at tvrail.com or call 423/894-8028 for tickets and information for Railfest and other year round trips.