Airdronians came out in droves to Nose Creek Park on Saturday evening to catch a glimpse of the festive CP Holiday train, and they weren't disappointed.
Youngsters were keen to get as close as they possibly could to the train, pressing their little faces against the cold chain-link fence at Nose Creek Park. Parents dutifully picked up their kids and placed them on their shoulders to get the best vantage point, while others nursed hot beverages in their hands to stave off the cold.
Though the train was a few minutes late, as it rolled into Airdrie, cheers erupted from the bundled crowd as they saw the bright and cheery Christmas lights that adorned the train.
As the crowd admired the various train cars, each sporting a different winter or holiday scene, they were also treated to a musical show, featuring artists Tenille Townes and Aysanabee. But the festive fun was only beginning for on-lookers, as many decided to make the short walk to the Airdrie Festival of Lights Display for more holiday cheer.
The CP Holiday train made its long-awaited return to Airdrie. Airdronians came out in droves to see the festive lights as it rolled into Nose Creek Park. (Photo by Anna Ferensowicz)Because the Holiday Train shows are free to attend, CP asked attendees to bring a cash or non-perishable food donation if they were able to do so.
"The Holiday Train is all about families and communities coming together to celebrate the season and help those in need. We are excited to be back out on the rails and in our communities, taking these two beautiful trains across our network and sharing the joy that comes with gathering in the spirit of giving," said Keith Creel, CP's President and Chief Executive Officer.
Since the Holiday Train program launched in 1999, it's raised more than $21 million and collected 5 million pounds of food for community food banks across North America.
The train's next stop will be in Calgary on Sunday, December 11, before it heads to Cochrane on December 13. To see all the stops check here.
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