Overview
Day Out With Thomas (TM), Thomas & Friends is a family-oriented festival that celebrates one of the world’s most beloved children’s characters—Thomas the Tank Engine. Hosted at the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris, United States, this event transforms the historic railway grounds into a lively celebration of imagination, discovery, and fun. The festival typically runs over several weekends, with the 2026 edition scheduled to begin on April 11.
Designed for young children and their families, the event offers a rare opportunity to meet life-sized versions of Thomas and his friends, ride aboard a real steam train, and enjoy a variety of themed activities. The atmosphere is cheerful and nostalgic, combining the magic of storytelling with the real-world excitement of railway heritage. Whether you are a parent introducing your child to the world of trains or a collector with a passion for railway history, Day Out With Thomas (TM) offers something memorable for everyone.
Highlights
Music and Entertainment
While the main focus of the festival is the train experience, the event also features live entertainment suitable for children and families. Expect cheerful sing-alongs, interactive performances, and storytelling sessions inspired by Thomas & Friends. These shows are designed to engage young audiences with songs, games, and character appearances, fostering participation and laughter throughout the day.
Production and Event Design
The production quality of Day Out With Thomas (TM) is consistently impressive. The Southern California Railway Museum is transformed into the Island of Sodor, complete with themed decorations, banners, and staff dressed in character-inspired outfits. The star attraction, of course, is the full-sized Thomas locomotive, which pulls passenger cars for short rides around the museum’s scenic tracks. Each train ride is accompanied by cheerful narration and sound effects that immerse passengers in the world of Thomas and his friends.
In addition to the train rides, visitors can explore interactive zones featuring model train displays, arts and crafts stations, and storytelling corners. Many families appreciate the attention to detail, from the replica signage to the background music that evokes the charm of the original television series. The festival’s design team ensures that every area reflects the warmth and friendliness of Thomas’s world, encouraging creativity and exploration.
Unique Features
What makes this festival stand out is its authentic connection to railway history combined with a beloved children’s franchise. The Southern California Railway Museum provides a genuine historic setting, allowing children to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of real locomotives. Parents and grandparents often find nostalgia in the vintage trains and exhibits, while children are captivated by the colorful characters and interactive activities.
Other unique highlights include photo opportunities with Thomas and Sir Topham Hatt, themed merchandise stands, and food stalls offering family-friendly meals and snacks. Many visitors enjoy the educational displays that teach young guests about railway safety and the mechanics of steam engines, blending entertainment with learning in a playful way.
Venue & Access
The City of Perris
Perris, located in Southern California’s Inland Empire, is a city known for its relaxed atmosphere and connection to outdoor adventure. It is easily accessible from major cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and Riverside, making it a convenient day trip or weekend destination for families across the region. The area enjoys a typically warm and sunny climate in April, ideal for outdoor events like Day Out With Thomas (TM).
The Southern California Railway Museum
The Southern California Railway Museum is one of the largest railway heritage centers in the western United States. The venue’s vast grounds include restored locomotives, trolleys, and exhibits that tell the story of rail transportation in the region. During the festival, these historic surroundings become the perfect backdrop for Thomas & Friends activities. The museum’s staff and volunteers are well known for their hospitality and knowledge, adding authenticity to the overall experience.
Access Tips
Visitors can reach the Southern California Railway Museum by car via Interstate 215, with parking available on-site. During busy festival days, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure parking and to allow time for check-in. Families traveling from farther away may consider staying overnight in nearby hotels or vacation rentals in the Perris or Riverside area. Public transportation options are limited, so driving remains the easiest method of access.
Inside the venue, pathways are stroller-friendly, and shaded rest areas are provided for comfort. Since the event is popular, especially on weekends, advance ticket booking is strongly recommended to ensure preferred time slots for train rides.
Tickets & Price Range
Tickets for Day Out With Thomas (TM), Thomas & Friends are typically sold in advance through the official ticketing platform. Each ticket usually includes entry to the Southern California Railway Museum, access to all festival activities, and a scheduled ride aboard Thomas the Tank Engine. Some packages may offer additional perks such as priority boarding or souvenir items.
While exact prices can vary depending on dates and ticket categories, families can expect general admission fees that are comparable to other regional family festivals. Children under a certain age may be eligible for reduced rates or free admission, depending on the year’s policy. It is always best to check the official ticket page for current pricing and available time slots before planning your visit.
Festival tickets often sell out quickly, particularly for the most popular ride times. Booking early ensures flexibility in planning your day and helps avoid disappointment. Group bookings and school visits may also be available through the museum’s contact channels.
Past Lineups & Festival Vibe
Although Day Out With Thomas (TM) is not a music festival in the traditional sense, it has a long history of delighting families across the United States with its warm, community-centered atmosphere. The event has toured multiple heritage railways nationwide, bringing its unique blend of storytelling, education, and entertainment to thousands of children each year.
Past editions at the Southern California Railway Museum have featured appearances by Thomas, Percy, and other characters from the Thomas & Friends universe. Families enjoyed train rides, meet-and-greet sessions, and themed performances that encouraged children to sing, dance, and participate in creative play. The festival vibe is wholesome, cheerful, and inclusive—an environment where imagination takes center stage.
Adults often appreciate the nostalgic connection to their own childhood memories, while children are thrilled to see their favorite blue engine come to life. The event’s combination of real locomotives and fictional storytelling creates a magical experience that bridges generations. Visitors frequently comment on the friendliness of the staff, the cleanliness of the venue, and the attention to detail that makes each visit special.
Tips for First-time Visitors
Weather and Timing
April in Perris generally brings mild to warm weather, with daytime temperatures often ranging between the mid-60s and low-80s Fahrenheit (around 18–27°C). Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable clothing are recommended, as much of the festival takes place outdoors. Bringing a refillable water bottle is also a good idea to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Morning and early afternoon sessions tend to be the most popular, especially for families with young children. Arriving early helps avoid crowds and allows more time to explore the museum’s exhibits before the scheduled train ride.
Packing Essentials
- Tickets and ID: Bring printed or digital copies of your tickets for smooth entry.
- Comfortable shoes: Expect a fair amount of walking between activity zones.
- Sun protection: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential under the California sun.
- Snacks and water: While food vendors are available, having extra snacks for children is always helpful.
- Camera: Capture the excitement when your child meets Thomas or Sir Topham Hatt.
- Light jacket: Evenings can be cooler, so pack a layer just in case.
On-site Behavior and Etiquette
The festival is designed for families with young children, so patience and courtesy go a long way. Be mindful of others when taking photos or boarding the train, and follow staff instructions for safety. Keeping children close in crowded areas ensures a stress-free experience for everyone.
Most of the activities encourage participation, so don’t hesitate to join in the singing, dancing, or crafts. The staff and volunteers are enthusiastic about making the event enjoyable for all visitors, and a friendly attitude helps maintain the cheerful atmosphere that defines Day Out With Thomas (TM).
Additional Tips
Plan your schedule around the train ride time printed on your ticket, as this is the centerpiece of the event. Before or after the ride, explore the museum’s permanent exhibits, which include vintage locomotives, streetcars, and railway memorabilia. Many families also extend their visit to nearby attractions in Perris, such as Lake Perris State Recreation Area, for a full day of outdoor fun.
Useful Links
Lineup, dates, and prices are subject to change. Please check the official sources for the latest information.
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