SPECIAL EVENTS HIGHLIGHT
COOKOUT AT THE CURVE: A SUMMERTIME CELEBRATION
WORLD-FAMOUS HORSESHOE CURVE: SATURDAY, JUNE 17 - 5PM-8PM
Enjoy a Father's Day weekend like no other! Partake in this family-friendly picnic with an assortment of fun and educational activities. Bring a lawn chair, grab a beer, and bite into a juicy hamburger, freshly made by Getty's Grill, as you watch trains traverse the World-Famous Horseshoe Curve. Yard games such as Cornhole, Horseshoes, Spike Throwing, and Can Jam will be available for anyone to play. A Curve Cornhole Tournament will begin at 6PM with registration opening in the Museum Store at 5PM. Visitors may also wish to attend Mel's Car Show on Sunday. Learn more about that event below.
Enjoy a Father's Day weekend like no other! Partake in this family-friendly picnic with an assortment of fun and educational activities. Bring a lawn chair, grab a beer, and bite into a juicy hamburger, freshly made by Getty's Grill, as you watch trains traverse the World-Famous Horseshoe Curve. Yard games such as Cornhole, Horseshoes, Spike Throwing, and Can Jam will be available for anyone to play. A Curve Cornhole Tournament will begin at 6PM with registration opening in the Museum Store at 5PM. Visitors may also wish to attend Mel's Car Show on Sunday. Learn more about that event below.
CARS & COUPLERS: MEL'S CAR SHOW AT THE MUSEUM
RAILROADERS MEMORIAL MUSEUM: SUNDAY, JUNE 18 - 10AM-5PM
Mel’s Car Shows is holding their first-ever car event at the Railroaders Memorial Museum from 10AM to 1PM! Registration is $15. Dash plaques will be given to the first 100 registered cars. With 25 classes to choose from, this judged show will present prizes to the first three places in each class at 4PM. There will be a basket fundraiser, music, food, and live demonstrations of historic steam tractors. Registered participants will receive 15% off museum admission for the day. All proceeds benefit the Railroaders Memorial Museum. For more info, call (814) 505-7876 or email melscarshows@gmail.com.
Mel’s Car Shows is holding their first-ever car event at the Railroaders Memorial Museum from 10AM to 1PM! Registration is $15. Dash plaques will be given to the first 100 registered cars. With 25 classes to choose from, this judged show will present prizes to the first three places in each class at 4PM. There will be a basket fundraiser, music, food, and live demonstrations of historic steam tractors. Registered participants will receive 15% off museum admission for the day. All proceeds benefit the Railroaders Memorial Museum. For more info, call (814) 505-7876 or email melscarshows@gmail.com.
2023 PROGRAM SCHEDULE
TWILIGHT AT THE CURVE: EXTENDED BUSINESS HOURS
WORLD FAMOUS HORSESHOE CURVE: DESIGNATED SATURDAYS - 10AM-10PM
Experience one of the eight engineering marvels of the world at twilight! The landmark will have extended summer hours on the following Saturdays: May 13, May 27, June 10, June 24, July 8, July 22, August 12, and August 26 from 10AM-10PM. Walk the illuminated stairs or ride the glowing funicular trackside to enjoy a night under the stars. Have a romantic picnic, star gaze with family, or snap photos of trains. Flashlights are recommended and telescopes are encouraged. The observation area closes at 9:30PM. The visitor center closes at 10PM. Check on funicular availability before visiting.
Experience one of the eight engineering marvels of the world at twilight! The landmark will have extended summer hours on the following Saturdays: May 13, May 27, June 10, June 24, July 8, July 22, August 12, and August 26 from 10AM-10PM. Walk the illuminated stairs or ride the glowing funicular trackside to enjoy a night under the stars. Have a romantic picnic, star gaze with family, or snap photos of trains. Flashlights are recommended and telescopes are encouraged. The observation area closes at 9:30PM. The visitor center closes at 10PM. Check on funicular availability before visiting.
ALTOONA CURVE BASEBALL: JERSEY FUNDRAISER
PEOPLE'S NATURAL GAS FIELD: TUESDAY, JULY 4 - BIDDING ENDS AT 8PM
This local, minor league team will be sporting retro jerseys and baseball caps. This apparel, both game-worn and autographed, will be sold at auction. Numerous bids can be placed both in-person at Peoples Natural Gas Field or online via the phone application, LiveSource. Proceeds from this baseball jersey fundraiser benefit the Railroaders Memorial Museum, the World Famous Horseshoe Curve, and their educational mission to preserve and interpret the legacy of railroaders.
This local, minor league team will be sporting retro jerseys and baseball caps. This apparel, both game-worn and autographed, will be sold at auction. Numerous bids can be placed both in-person at Peoples Natural Gas Field or online via the phone application, LiveSource. Proceeds from this baseball jersey fundraiser benefit the Railroaders Memorial Museum, the World Famous Horseshoe Curve, and their educational mission to preserve and interpret the legacy of railroaders.
AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL
HERITAGE PLAZA IN DOWNTOWN ALTOONA: SATURDAY, JULY 29 & 30 - 12PM-8PM
The Railroaders Memorial Museum is excited to return as event sponsor for the 2023 Blair County African American Heritage Festival! This family-friendly celebration will bring Black history to the community through education and entertainment. The festival will have musical concerts, dancing performances, food trucks, craft vendors, and a kids corner. Museum staff will be managing the festival's beer tent and selling merchandise, with all proceeds benefiting the Railroaders Memorial Museum. An information table, coloring sheets, and other educational activities will also be available.
The Railroaders Memorial Museum is excited to return as event sponsor for the 2023 Blair County African American Heritage Festival! This family-friendly celebration will bring Black history to the community through education and entertainment. The festival will have musical concerts, dancing performances, food trucks, craft vendors, and a kids corner. Museum staff will be managing the festival's beer tent and selling merchandise, with all proceeds benefiting the Railroaders Memorial Museum. An information table, coloring sheets, and other educational activities will also be available.
HAUNTED RAILS & TALES: RAILROAD CITY HORROR STORIES
RAILROADERS MEMORIAL MUSEUM - FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS, OCTOBER 6-7, 13-14, & 20-21
Join the Railroaders Memorial Museum for yet another Halloween season with Haunted Rails & Tales: Railroad City Horror Stories. During his career as Blair County coroner, Michael Poet inspected hundreds of deaths between 1890 and 1895. Join Poet as he introduces visitors to his investigations and the locals involved. While touring the former Master Mechanics Building, attendees will learn of Altoona’s horrific past—based on true events of death and sacrifice in Railroad City. Due to popular demand, more tours have been added to the 2023 schedule. These programs will take place at 6PM and 7:30PM on Fridays and Saturdays, October 6 & 7, 13 & 14, and 20 & 21. Not recommended for children under five. Parental discretion advised.
Join the Railroaders Memorial Museum for yet another Halloween season with Haunted Rails & Tales: Railroad City Horror Stories. During his career as Blair County coroner, Michael Poet inspected hundreds of deaths between 1890 and 1895. Join Poet as he introduces visitors to his investigations and the locals involved. While touring the former Master Mechanics Building, attendees will learn of Altoona’s horrific past—based on true events of death and sacrifice in Railroad City. Due to popular demand, more tours have been added to the 2023 schedule. These programs will take place at 6PM and 7:30PM on Fridays and Saturdays, October 6 & 7, 13 & 14, and 20 & 21. Not recommended for children under five. Parental discretion advised.
PAST 2023 EVENTS
TUXEDO JUNCTION: THE MUSIC CULTURE OF RAILROAD CITY
RAILROADERS MEMORIAL MUSEUM: SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 - 5PM-9PM
Musicians will explore the ethnicities that shaped the diverse culture of Railroad City by playing music from Central Europe, the British Isles, and Appalachia, among many others. Artists include Jerry Zolten, Terri Parker, Skip Steinbeiser, Mark Ralston, Richard Sleigh, Linda Littleton, and Karen Hirshon. Alcoholic beverages will be served in an authentic Kelly’s Bar. Appetizers, made from original Pullman Company recipes, will consist of Chicken or Tofu Ala King, Rice Pilaf, Buttered Asparagus, Chilled Melon, and Shortcake. Doors open at 5PM. Formal attire only. Ages 21 and up.
Musicians will explore the ethnicities that shaped the diverse culture of Railroad City by playing music from Central Europe, the British Isles, and Appalachia, among many others. Artists include Jerry Zolten, Terri Parker, Skip Steinbeiser, Mark Ralston, Richard Sleigh, Linda Littleton, and Karen Hirshon. Alcoholic beverages will be served in an authentic Kelly’s Bar. Appetizers, made from original Pullman Company recipes, will consist of Chicken or Tofu Ala King, Rice Pilaf, Buttered Asparagus, Chilled Melon, and Shortcake. Doors open at 5PM. Formal attire only. Ages 21 and up.
RAILROAD CITY READS: STORY TIME FOR KIDS
RAILROADERS MEMORIAL MUSEUM: SATURDAY, MARCH 18 - 12PM, 1PM, & 2PM
Make sure to attend special railroad-themed story times in recognition of National Reading Month! Co-hosted by the Altoona Area Public Library, this educational program for children is fun for any visiting family. A passionate librarian will read books, recite rhymes, and perform locomotive motions. Books include The Little Engine That Could, Freight Train, and Thomas the Tank publications, among many more iconic stories. Families are encouraged to tour the museum before or after their story time. Readings take place at the 2nd Floor House Exhibit. This event is free with the price of admission.
Make sure to attend special railroad-themed story times in recognition of National Reading Month! Co-hosted by the Altoona Area Public Library, this educational program for children is fun for any visiting family. A passionate librarian will read books, recite rhymes, and perform locomotive motions. Books include The Little Engine That Could, Freight Train, and Thomas the Tank publications, among many more iconic stories. Families are encouraged to tour the museum before or after their story time. Readings take place at the 2nd Floor House Exhibit. This event is free with the price of admission.
TOY TRAIN SWAP MEET: MUSEUM MERCHANDISE BOOTH
BLAIR COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER: SUNDAY, MARCH 19 - 9AM-2PM
Browse through a wide-variety of model trains and railroading memorabilia at the Blair County Convention Center! This venue showcases the newest models from manufacturers and also permits rail enthusiasts to complete older collections. This unique event benefits the Alto Model Train Museum (AMTMA), one of the Railroaders Memorial Museum's many community partners. Staff members and museum docents will operate an information booth consisting of reading materials and educational activities for railfans and model railroaders of all ages. Museum merchandise will also be for sale.
Browse through a wide-variety of model trains and railroading memorabilia at the Blair County Convention Center! This venue showcases the newest models from manufacturers and also permits rail enthusiasts to complete older collections. This unique event benefits the Alto Model Train Museum (AMTMA), one of the Railroaders Memorial Museum's many community partners. Staff members and museum docents will operate an information booth consisting of reading materials and educational activities for railfans and model railroaders of all ages. Museum merchandise will also be for sale.
LAUGH TRACKS: COMEDY NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM
RAILROADERS MEMORIAL MUSEUM: THURSDAY, MARCH 23 - 7PM-9PM
Do not miss a hilarious night of stand-up comedy with a LetsLaugh production and some of the area’s funniest comedians! You will crack up all night with headliner Jonathan Preston and feature comedians Michael Keller and Veronika Barrett. Sponsored by Levity Brewing Company, General Admission includes one beverage. Platinum Admission includes a front row seat and two complimentary craft beers. Additional refreshments and snacks will be available for purchase. Doors open at 6PM with the show starting at 7PM. This program is for ages 21+ and contains content for mature audiences.
Do not miss a hilarious night of stand-up comedy with a LetsLaugh production and some of the area’s funniest comedians! You will crack up all night with headliner Jonathan Preston and feature comedians Michael Keller and Veronika Barrett. Sponsored by Levity Brewing Company, General Admission includes one beverage. Platinum Admission includes a front row seat and two complimentary craft beers. Additional refreshments and snacks will be available for purchase. Doors open at 6PM with the show starting at 7PM. This program is for ages 21+ and contains content for mature audiences.
COTTONTAIL AT THE CURVE: EASTER EGG HUNT
WORLD FAMOUS HORSESHOE CURVE: SATURDAY, APRIL 8 - 1PM & 3PM
Scurry to the World Famous Horseshoe Curve for a colorful Easter eggstravaganza! Children (ages 4-9) can hunt for eggs within the observation area starting at 1PM. Toddlers (ages 1-3) can collect eggs inside the courtyard at 3PM. Children must bring their own baskets or bags. The Easter Bunny will also be available for photos. Families are encouraged to train watch and explore the exhibit area before and after their hunts have concluded. Candy distribution will occur in the visitor center. In the case of severe weather, this event will be cancelled. Check on funicular availability before visiting.
Scurry to the World Famous Horseshoe Curve for a colorful Easter eggstravaganza! Children (ages 4-9) can hunt for eggs within the observation area starting at 1PM. Toddlers (ages 1-3) can collect eggs inside the courtyard at 3PM. Children must bring their own baskets or bags. The Easter Bunny will also be available for photos. Families are encouraged to train watch and explore the exhibit area before and after their hunts have concluded. Candy distribution will occur in the visitor center. In the case of severe weather, this event will be cancelled. Check on funicular availability before visiting.
BLAIR COUNTY DOLLAR DAY: EXPLORING LOCAL HERITAGE
RAILROADERS MUSEUM & HORSESHOE CURVE: SATURDAY, APRIL 29 - 10AM-5PM
This discount day allows local residents to explore both historic attractions, the Railroaders Memorial Museum and the World-Famous Horseshoe Curve, for only $1 per person per site! Blair Countians can utilize this opportunity to learn how their forebears created an industry along with some of the community's most cherished civic pillars, including schools, libraries, hospitals, and other social institutions. Rediscover your heritage and build a deeper connection to Railroad City. Please provide proof of Blair County residence at the ticket counter. Check on funicular availability before visiting.
This discount day allows local residents to explore both historic attractions, the Railroaders Memorial Museum and the World-Famous Horseshoe Curve, for only $1 per person per site! Blair Countians can utilize this opportunity to learn how their forebears created an industry along with some of the community's most cherished civic pillars, including schools, libraries, hospitals, and other social institutions. Rediscover your heritage and build a deeper connection to Railroad City. Please provide proof of Blair County residence at the ticket counter. Check on funicular availability before visiting.
RAILROADS, ART, & AMERICAN LIFE: BOOK LECTURE
RAILROADERS MEMORIAL MUSEUM: WEDNESDAY, MAY 3 - 5:30PM-8PM
Learn about how railroads have shaped American society with a special book presentation! Artist and author J. Craig Thorpe will discuss his new book "Railroads, Art, and American Life" at 7PM. Over the course of his thirty year career, Thorpe has worked with architects, museums, and private collectors in creating railroad art and illustrations. He will highlight some of these commissioned pieces and the personal journey that accompanied them. There will be a meet-and-greet at 5:30PM. Complimentary beverages will be available. Attendees must be 21+ to be served and identification is required.
Learn about how railroads have shaped American society with a special book presentation! Artist and author J. Craig Thorpe will discuss his new book "Railroads, Art, and American Life" at 7PM. Over the course of his thirty year career, Thorpe has worked with architects, museums, and private collectors in creating railroad art and illustrations. He will highlight some of these commissioned pieces and the personal journey that accompanied them. There will be a meet-and-greet at 5:30PM. Complimentary beverages will be available. Attendees must be 21+ to be served and identification is required.
THE JUNIATA JEWEL JUBILEE: K4 1361’S 105TH BIRTHDAY
RAILROADERS MEMORIAL MUSEUM: SATURDAY, MAY 6 - 10AM-7PM
Come celebrate the 105th Anniversary of K4s 1361's construction! Originally built in 1918, this "Juniata Jewel" will soon return to steam. As part of the festivities, the Everett Railroad Company will hold a special fundraiser excursion in Hollidaysburg at 12PM with proceeds benefiting the restoration. At the Railroaders Memorial Museum, appetizers, beverages, and cake will kick off an open roundhouse. At 3PM, FMW Solutions will hold an in-depth press conference. The Railroaders Memorial Museum and the Horseshoe Curve will be open until 7PM. Purchase excursion tickets via the Everett Railroad.
Come celebrate the 105th Anniversary of K4s 1361's construction! Originally built in 1918, this "Juniata Jewel" will soon return to steam. As part of the festivities, the Everett Railroad Company will hold a special fundraiser excursion in Hollidaysburg at 12PM with proceeds benefiting the restoration. At the Railroaders Memorial Museum, appetizers, beverages, and cake will kick off an open roundhouse. At 3PM, FMW Solutions will hold an in-depth press conference. The Railroaders Memorial Museum and the Horseshoe Curve will be open until 7PM. Purchase excursion tickets via the Everett Railroad.
