August 28-30, 2026
8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

The N.C. Transportation Museum, Trains Magazine, and White River Productions are excited to announce the America 250 Locomotive Celebration August 28-30 at the N.C. Transportation Museum in Spencer, NC!

Experience a once-in-a-generation railroading event as the N.C. Transportation Museum hosts the first and only gathering of commemorative locomotives from Class I, short line, and passenger railroads, all specially painted to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial.

Set against the iconic Bob Julian Roundhouse, this extraordinary display of red, white, and blue locomotives is expected to create one of the most memorable railroad photography opportunities of the America 250 celebration.

Throughout this three-day event, visitors will enjoy:

• Unique photo opportunities
• Rotating locomotive displays on the Bob Julian Roundhouse turntable
• Night photography sessions sponsored and coordinated by Railfan & Railroad Magazine
  (Night Photo Session limited to 200 participants per night)
• Train rides pulled by a museum diesel locomotive – included with admission price, based on availability.

Each day will feature a different lineup of locomotives and photography opportunities as equipment is rotated and repositioned throughout the event, ensuring a unique experience for returning visitors.

PLEASE NOTE: Locomotives shown in all photographs are examples of locomotives painted to celebrate America 250. Actual locomotives appearing at the event will be announced as they are confirmed.