Train Days 2026

Supporting the Future of Steam

June 5 – 7, 2026

Join Friends of the 261 for a special evening dedicated to preserving one of America’s most iconic steam locomotives—Milwaukee Road 261.

Friends of the 261 will host an exclusive charity dinner on board it historic passenger cars at St Paul Union Depot, Friday, June 5th. This event will kick off a full weekend of railroad celebration and help raise critical funds for the next major rebuild of Locomotive #261, ensuring it continues to operate and inspire future generations.

For over 30 years, Friends of the 261 has worked to preserve, restore, and operate historic rail equipment, bringing the golden age of railroading back to life through excursions and public events.

Event Highlights

  • Evening cocktail & social hour
  • Dinner served aboard historic rail equipment
  • Up-close access to vintage railcars
  • Behind-the-scenes insights
  • Fundraising opportunities
  • Exclusive preview of Train Days weekend

Every ticket directly supports the rebuild and continued operation of Locomotive 261—helping keep mainline steam alive for years to come.

Our Mission: Rebuild & Extend Service Life

Milwaukee Road 261 is a fully operational mainline steam locomotive—a rare and powerful symbol of American railroading.

Your support helps fund:

  • Mechanical rebuild and long-term maintenance
  • Continued mainline excursion operations
  • Preservation of historic passenger equipment
  • Educational outreach and public engagement

Together, we ensure 261 continues to run, not just rest.

Reserve Your Seat

Seats for this exclusive event are limited.

Reserve early and be part of a night that keeps steam alive. Every ticket, donation, and sponsorship directly supports the continued operation of one of the nation’s premier historic locomotives.

Be part of the story. Be part of the rebuild.

Reserve your seat today!

Continue the Experience – Train Days Weekend

After the dinner, the celebration continues during Train Days at Union Depot, a free, family-friendly event featuring railroad equipment, exhibits, and activities.

Friends of the 261 On Display:

  • Saturday, June 6 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Sunday, June 7 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

While Milwaukee Road 261 will not be on display, guests will still have the opportunity to explore a unique lineup of historic equipment from the Friends of the 261 collection, including:

  • Super Dome
  • Stanford
  • Baggage Car 2450
  • Minnesota River

Step inside these beautifully preserved railcars, meet our volunteers, and experience firsthand the craftsmanship and history behind mainline passenger travel.

Arriving St Paul Union Depot

Please allow plenty of time to travel, park and walk to Gate C in St Paul Union Depot.  There are many one-way and limited-access streets around St Paul Union Depot.  Once you arrive at St Paul Union Depot plan on walking – the majestic building covers several city blocks!  Take time to explore the art and history inside the building.

Detailed instructions may be found here to assist in locating the St Paul Union Depot Entrance and parking.

Sponsors

We are proud to partner with:

Twin Cities & Western

The Twin Cities & Western Railroad (TC&W) plays a vital role in connecting Minnesota communities to national and global markets, operating over 360 miles of track across the region while supporting rural economies through safe, efficient freight transportation.

As a valued sponsor of Friends of the 261, TC&W’s commitment to rail service, community growth, and preserving the legacy of railroading helps make our excursions and restoration efforts possible.