Port Coquitlam will host the final stop of the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Holiday Train’s cross-country tour on Saturday, Dec. 20, with the festive train arriving at 6:35 p.m. on Kingsway Avenue. The free event will feature a performance by Barenaked Ladies from 6:45 to 7:15 p.m., according to a press release from the City of Port Coquitlam.
The evening will begin with pre-train festivities at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Families can enjoy free arts and crafts activities, hot chocolate, popcorn, and a screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, sponsored by Valley Tech. More information about the event is available here.
“Port Coquitlam is proud to be the final stop on this year’s CPKC Holiday Train tour and part of a Christmas tradition that so many families look forward to each year,” said Mayor Brad West in the release. “This event brings our community together in the spirit of the season while supporting families in need through local food-security programs.”
SHARE Family and Community Services will set up a collection station at the train arrival point to accept cash and non-perishable food donations. According to the city, cash donations are particularly valuable as food shelves can purchase items at a discount, making monetary contributions more impactful than food donations.
The 27th annual Holiday Train began its three-week, 10,000-kilometre journey on Nov. 19 in New Brunswick and has visited more than 150 communities across Canada. Since 1999, the program has raised more than $22.5 million and collected five million pounds of food for local food banks.
The train spans approximately 1,000 feet and features 14 rail cars decorated with hundreds of thousands of LED lights and holiday designs, including a modified boxcar that serves as a stage for performances.
“The Holiday Train is a wonderful way for residents to gather, celebrate the season and support an important cause,” said Cllr. Paige Petriw, council designate for celebrations and events.
The train will arrive on Kingsway Avenue between Mary Hill Road and Wilson Avenue. Road closures will be in effect from 5 to 9 p.m. Free parking is available at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre, though the West Coast Express parking lot will be closed for the event. Attendees are advised to dress warmly and wear reflective clothing for visibility when crossing streets after dark.
