ALL ABOARDDD!
Cedar City to commemorate Railroad Centennial Celebration with weeklong activities beginning June 19, 2023.
This June will mark 100 years since the railroad came to Cedar City, and the Historic Preservation Commission is planning a week-long celebration to commemorate the train’s incredible impact on Iron County tourism, commerce, and agriculture industries. With a full schedule of events for ages 0 to 100, there is bound to be something for everyone to enjoy! Everything is open to the public and free unless otherwise noted, with the official schedule available at www.cedarcity.org/ccrr.
On Monday, June 19, three historical markers will be unveiled about the railroad and the Utah Parks Company, with a special family paint night to be offered in the evening at Iron Springs Resort for a small fee. Tuesday, June 20, will feature a historic downtown walking tour concluding at the Cedars Hotel on Main Street with a special one-night-only photo gallery exhibit and storyteller experience titled “U.P. (Union Pacific, Utah Parks) Memories and You.”
A railroad-themed scavenger hunt kicks off on Wednesday, June 21, with free admission to Homestead State Park and a memorable evening for families, including train bingo, interactive displays, and more! On Thursday, June 22, visit the historic train depot on the corner of Main Street and 200 North and participate in the “Sing Away Social” filled with live entertainment, community bands, and informational lectures in the outdoor amphitheater. A slow roll bike ride will also be held on Thursday at Discovery Park from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, followed by a movie in the park for families.
The week concludes with their biggest celebration on Saturday, June 24. A party at Main Street Park will feature food vendors, games, live entertainment, and much more, including a professional reenactment of President Harding’s arrival in Cedar City and his inspiring speech. Free entry into the Aquatic Center will be available for the entire family starting at 6:30 PM, while others will continue the celebration with an outdoor concert and dance in the park.
All week long, the community can enjoy a free trackless train ride on the Centennial Express and a special Utah National Parks Memorabilia Exhibit, including opportunities to visit various locations to complete a scavenger hunt card and redeem a commemorative prize on Saturday. And if you still want more, a special Union Pacific Photography Exhibit will continue to be offered in various locations through December 1. You won’t want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime event!
To this day, the railroad continues to be an important asset and economic driver for Iron County and businesses seeking a centralized location in the southwestern United States. Visit www.cedarcity.org/ccrr and follow Cedar City on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to follow along with the celebration!
