Join us for the hottest event of the year! You’ll get to meet real firefighters, explore antique & modern fire trucks, get a close-up look at the equipment they use, vote for your favorite fire truck, and have a fun-filled family day at the museum. During your visit, enjoy activities and train rides throughout the day. At the end of the festival, watch the parade which begins at 2:30 p.m.

Enjoy a night of family fun at the N.C. Transportation Museum for Fireworks Over Historic Spencer Shops on Saturday, June 27! The Museum will close at 5:00 p.m. with limited buildings and exhibits remaining open until the fireworks begin. Museum grounds reopen with FREE children’s activities starting at 6:00 p.m. and wrap up with a glorious fireworks show celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary beginning at 9:15 p.m. In the event of severe weather, fireworks show timing may be adjusted.

During this special luminary program, Bennett Place invites you to reflect on the end of the Civil War as a momentous step towards freedom for all Americans and the end of chattel slavery in the United States. Walk among 3,310 luminaries - one for every 1,000 enslaved people in North Carolina - and reflect on experiences of enslavement and freedom. Historians dot the path and share stories of people's pathways to freedom and life after slavery & the Civil War.

“Well, are you coming?” Inspired by the hit movie, this holiday favorite comes to life as you and your family take a magical trip on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride! Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, families are sure to enjoy their trip to the North Pole, complete with hot chocolate and cookies served on board the train. Passengers are entertained by a reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s classic, The Polar Express. Upon arrival at the North Pole, passengers deboard to watch Santa present the first gift of Christmas. Before exiting the train at Candy Cane Lane, all passengers who BELIEVE will receive their own sleigh bell. Experience the joy of caroling and holiday entertainment that will surely become an annual family tradition. Children of all ages are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride and join in on the magic of Christmas!