SPENCER — All aboard.

The Historic Spencer Shops Train Show is coming next weekend, on May 18, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and May 19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Visitors can experience the world of trains with model train layouts, train memorabilia, vendors, railroad motor car rides provided by Red Springs & Northern and passenger train rides. They can also explore the museum’s collection of full-size locomotives and train cars. 

Tickets for the event when combined with a train ride are $16 for adults, $14 for seniors/military, $12 for children 3-12, and free for members and children under age 3. Event admission without the train ride is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors/military, $6 for children 3-12, and free for children under 3. Tax and ticketing fees apply.

The show will feature a special program, “YouTube for Trains,” presented by Jimmy from DIY and Digital Railroad. The popular YouTube channel has over 58,000 subscribers and is all about model railroading, from the first train to a basement railroad empire. The channel shares Jimmy’s love for model railroading as a family friendly hobby. The program will take place in the Gift Station building at 11:30 a.m. and is included in the price of admission.

At 1:30 p.m., visitors can attend a short program in front of the Bob Julian Roundhouse to celebrate its 100th anniversary. After sharing some history about the historic roundhouse, named by Southern Railway to honor Julian for his years of service as the Roundhouse foreman, the museum will welcome some members of the Julian family. Visitors can enjoy a piece of cake outside the Roundhouse Orientation Room.

Members of the North Carolina Transportation Museum enjoy this daytime event, including event admission and train rides, for free. Saturday, May 18, is also Member Appreciation Day with special members-only tours and other perks. If you’re not already a member, it’s a great day to sign up and enjoy a day at the museum for free. Members are strongly encouraged to reserve tickets in advance using their membership number. 

For more information on this event and to purchase advance tickets, go to www.nctransportationmuseum.org/train-show/. The event will be held rain or shine. Taxes and fees apply.