As spring rapidly passes by, the West Coast Railway Heritage Park is getting ready to welcome that famous British character, Thomas the Tank Engine.
He has reportedly started on his journey here, and will be at the Heritage Park live and in person on June 5 to 6 and June 12 to 13. This visit will be an extra special one, as he celebrates a very important birthday on June 5.
It was 65 years ago to the day that Rev. Awdry wrote the very first Thomas story in the UK as a means of educating and entertaining his children.
Who would have ever guessed that this humble beginning about a little blue tank engine would develop into a global industry with a legacy of many characters, books, movies, and live performances?
When Thomas visits Squamish, it is just one of many live performances put on by HIT Entertainment all over the world in partnership with heritage railways.
These syndicated events follow a set formula as to what is included and how they are operated, and they have entertained millions of happy children over the years.
Our event is no exception. This is our largest single annual event. We expect upwards of 10,000 people to descend on Squamish over the four days of the event, and lots of spin off activity for community businesses.
Already, there are many hotel bookings made as many come from out of town and will spend a night here to attend the event. Watch for visitors in the community on both weekends, and please make them welcome - we would all like them to come again.
For our part, the West Coast Railway Heritage Park will be a very busy place for these four days (as well as set up days before and take down days after).
We will have more than 50 volunteers each day - it takes a tremendous community effort to operate this event well no matter what gets thrown our way in terms or weather or other challenges.
Hopefully we will see you there. But regardless, please watch for our visitors and make them welcome.
