The CPKC Holiday Train will ride the rails to the Barrie area today, part of a cross-country journey to hundreds of communities.
The train will arrive in Springwater Township at 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29, at Anne Street North and Wenden Court, near the Highway 26 railway crossing.
"Formerly known as the CP (Canadian Pacific) Holiday Train, the CPKC Holiday Train features a box car stage and a line-up of great musical talent to raise money, food and awareness for local food banks," according to a news release from Springwater Township. "The event is free to attend, with CPKC encouraging attendees to open their cupboards and wallets to help combat food insecurity in their communities. The Elmvale & District Food Bank and Barrie Food Bank will be accepting donations in Springwater to ensure those in need locally have enough healthy food this holiday season."
The event attracts hundreds of people and finding a place to park can be a challenge. Springwater officials say parking, with shuttle service, will be available at Tree Nursery Sports Park (2231 Nursery Road). Accessible parking is available to those with a permit on Anne Street North, however, space is limited. A parking map is available on the Township’s website at springwater.ca/HolidayTrain.
As well, Anne Street North will be closed for the duration of the event to accommodate the expected foot traffic.
"Performing on the train this year is Anyway Gang; a Canadian musical group made up of four friends from some of Canada’s most notable bands – Sam Roberts, Chris Murphy (Sloan), Menno Versteeg (Hollerado), and Dave Monks (Tokyo Police Club). The group formed in the summer of 2018 and released their debut single ‘Big Night’ in 2019. Their debut album, Anyway Gang, followed in November 2019," according to the news release.
The live performances will run from 12:30 to 12:55 p.m. Audience members can also enjoy hot chocolate and candy canes, which will be given out for free beginning at 11:30 a.m.
Since 1999, the CPKC Holiday Train has helped raise over $22.5 million and helped to collect over 5 million pounds of food for those in need across North America.
For more information, please visit the CPKC Holiday Train website at www.cpkcr.com/en/community/HolidayTrain
