The Canadian Pacific-Kansas City (CPKC) Holiday Train will return to Iowa this year, making multiple stops across the state. This annual event combines festive entertainment with a crucial mission: supporting local food banks. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items or make monetary donations at each stop.
The Holiday Train's schedule spans from November 19 to December 21, traveling through both the United States and Canada. Its presence in Iowa highlights a commitment to community support during the holiday season.
Key Takeaways
- The CPKC Holiday Train will visit six Iowa cities.
- Stops include Dubuque, Bellevue, Clinton, Davenport, Muscatine, and Ottumwa.
- Musical guests Smash Mouth and JJ Wilde will perform at each Iowa stop.
- The event supports local food banks through donations.
- Attendees are encouraged to donate food or money.
Holiday Train Schedule and Locations in Iowa
The CPKC Holiday Train will make six stops in Iowa, bringing its decorated cars and live musical performances to various communities. These visits are scheduled across November 24 and 25, concluding in Ottumwa on November 26.
Each stop provides a unique opportunity for residents to experience the festive train and contribute to a charitable cause. The railway company, CPKC, makes a donation to a local food bank at every stop, reinforcing the event's core purpose.
Dubuque: First Iowa Stop
The first Iowa stop for the Holiday Train is scheduled for Dubuque. This marks the beginning of its journey through the state, bringing holiday cheer to the community.
- When: November 24, from 9:45 p.m. to 10:15 p.m.
- Where: Hawthorne Street railway crossing, located at the corner of Hawthorne Street and Rohmberg Avenue.
- Musical Artists: Smash Mouth and JJ Wilde.
According to CPKC officials, the late evening stop in Dubuque offers a distinct atmosphere for attendees to enjoy the illuminated train.
Did You Know?
The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train program started in 1999. Since its inception, it has raised more than $22.5 million and collected 5 million pounds of food for communities across North America.
November 25: A Busy Day Across Iowa
November 25 will be the busiest day for the Holiday Train in Iowa, with four scheduled stops. These stops span across various cities, allowing many communities to participate in the event.
The train will travel south along the Mississippi River, making appearances in Bellevue, Clinton, and Davenport, before heading inland to Muscatine.
Bellevue: Midday Festivities
Following its Dubuque visit, the train moves to Bellevue for a midday event.
- When: November 25, from 12:45 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
- Where: Horizon Lanes Hall parking lot, situated at the corner of Jefferson Avenue and Elizabeth Street.
- Musical Artists: Smash Mouth and JJ Wilde.
This stop provides a daytime viewing opportunity for families and individuals.
Clinton: Afternoon Performance
The Holiday Train continues its journey to Clinton in the afternoon.
- When: November 25, from 3:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
- Where: 23rd Avenue and Grant Street.
- Musical Artists: Smash Mouth and JJ Wilde.
Community members in Clinton can gather to see the train and enjoy the live music.
About CPKC
Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) is the first and only single-line railway connecting Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. The company operates approximately 20,000 miles of rail and employs nearly 20,000 people. Its Holiday Train is a long-standing tradition that supports communities along its network.
Davenport: Early Evening Stop
Davenport will host the Holiday Train in the early evening.
- When: November 25, from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Where: Western Avenue and West River Drive.
- Musical Artists: Smash Mouth and JJ Wilde.
This stop is strategically timed to allow for an illuminated view of the train as dusk settles.
"The Holiday Train brings joy and essential support to communities," said a CPKC representative. "We are proud to partner with local food banks and encourage everyone to contribute what they can."
Muscatine: Nighttime Event
The final stop on November 25 is in Muscatine, occurring after dark.
- When: November 25, from 7:45 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.
- Where: River Side Park, specifically at Chestnut Street and Harbor Drive.
- Musical Artists: Smash Mouth and JJ Wilde.
This nighttime event offers another opportunity to see the train's festive lights.
Ottumwa: Final Iowa Stop
The Holiday Train concludes its Iowa tour in Ottumwa on November 26, providing a morning event for the community.
This final stop allows residents in central Iowa to experience the event and contribute to local food insecurity efforts.
- When: November 26, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
- Where: 1300 Wildwood Drive.
- Musical Artists: Smash Mouth and JJ Wilde.
The concert at each stop lasts approximately 30 minutes, featuring performances by musical guests Smash Mouth and JJ Wilde. These artists will provide entertainment for attendees before the train continues to its next destination.
The CPKC Holiday Train serves as a significant annual event. It delivers both entertainment and practical support to communities across its network. The program highlights the importance of collective action in addressing food insecurity during the holiday season.
