The Centralia-Chehalis Railroad and Museum (CCRM) will host three events in July and August to raise money for a project to renovate the historic Passenger Car No. 603 this summer.
The restoration project will allow CCRM to add another passenger car to its popular Polar Express train rides in the winter, according to CCRM’s website.
“The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad is a historic nonprofit railroad dedicated to preserving the rich railway history of the Pacific Northwest while offering unique and entertaining experiences for everyone,” CCRM said in a news release.
All trains depart from the Chehalis-Centralia Train Depot, located at 1101 SW Sylvenus St. in Chehalis.
For more information about events, including the dinner menus, or to book tickets, visit https://steamtrainride.com/.
Summer Bash BBQ and Train Ride: July 12
The evening begins at 4 p.m. with social mingling and the full bar offering a variety of refreshing options for the Summer Bash BBQ before the train departs at 5 p.m.
Following a scenic train ride through the Chehalis River Valley, guests will arrive back at the Chehalis Depot at 6:30 p.m. for a BBQ dinner catered by Joy’s Once Upon a Thyme.
“You’ve brought your blankets and lawn chairs, and you set up your cozy spot for the evening. Now it’s time for the BBQ dinner and entertainment,” CCRM said in a news release. Entertainment continues until 9 p.m. with karaoke provided by “Just the Basics.”
“For just $99 per person, you can support the Chehalis Centralia Historic Passenger Renovation Project while you get to have the adventure of a scenic train ride through one of the most beautiful areas, a delicious BBQ dinner, and an evening of fun and relaxation — everything you need for a perfect summer evening,” CCRM said in a news release.
Roaring ‘20s Dinner Train Ride: July 19
CCRM invites passengers to step back in time and experience an evening of nostalgia with a Roaring ‘20s Dinner Train Ride on a vintage 1920s-style rail coach through the Chehalis River Valley.
The train departs the Chehalis Depot at 5 p.m., with guests encouraged to arrive at 4 p.m. dressed in their best “Casablanca-inspired attire.”
“Think glitzy flapper dresses, dapper suits, sequins and all the bangles. The best-dressed guest will win a prize!” CCRM said in a news release.
Guests will have the opportunity to mingle, enjoy signature cocktails and get professional photos taken at a limousine photo opp before walking a red carpet to board the train.
Water and coffee served will be included in the meal. Alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase.
The train will return to the depot after dinner, where guests will have the opportunity to try their luck at free gambling tables.
“No money exchanged, just the thrill of the game,” CCRM stated. “The evening wraps up at 9 p.m., leaving you with unforgettable memories of a night steeped in glamour, camaraderie, and a touch of 1920s magic.”
Tickets are $120 per person. A special upgrade is available for $900 for the private first class option in the presidential SP&S 99 Business Car, which is available for one party of six people.
70’s Theme Dinner and Train Ride: Aug. 9
Guests are invited to bring their own blanket or lawn chair and to dress in their best ‘70s attire for a relaxing evening of fun. The festivities begin at 4 p.m. for a casual cocktail hour before the train departs at 5 p.m.
The train returns at 6:30 p.m, at which time CCRM will serve “a hearty, home-style meal with all the good vibes,” CCRM stated.
Each passenger will enjoy a buffet style three course meal catered by Joy’s Once Upon a Thyme following the excursion. A full bar will be available on the train.
Following dinner, guests are invited to relax on the grassy area and enjoy live music by Rock City Band, and some fun old-fashioned games. The evening festivities conclude at 9 p.m.
Tickets are $99 per person.
