Buddy and Friends Festival at the Railway Museum of BC
Buddy and Friends is a popular family-friendly train festival held at the Railway Museum of British Columbia in Squamish. The event grew out of the much-loved Day Out With Thomas celebrations that happened at the museum a few years ago. The Buddy and Friends Festival continues the tradition of interactive railway fun.
Designed for kids and parents to enjoy together, the Buddy and Friends event features hands-on activities, music, storytelling and interactive workshops alongside exciting train experiences. Families can explore railway history while enjoying a lively atmosphere filled with performances and creative activities for all ages.
The festival brings together entertainers, educators and performers who create memorable experiences for young audiences while encouraging creativity and learning.
To learn more about Buddy and Friends, either continue reading or visit the wcra.org website.
Date, Location and Admission
Buddy and Friends is held on the first weekend of May each year. The festival takes place at the Railway Museum of BC in Squamish.
In recent years, tickets for the event have been priced at around $20 per person. The cost will likely be similar this year too, although exact details are to be confirmed.
Event Activities
The Buddy and Friends Festival blends interactive railway attractions with all-day family entertainment.
At the event, visitors can explore historic trains, learn about the role railways played in British Columbia’s development, and take part in several rides around the museum grounds. Highlights include trips on the BC-21 Budd Rail Diesel, rides aboard the Mini-Rail Train, and opportunities to check out the Big Red classic track speeder.
In addition to train activities, the event features live shows geared towards kids. Entertainment typically includes a mix of music, comedy, storytelling, and other interactive performances, along with appearances by Buddy.
In the past performers have included children’s entertainer Norman Foote, award-winning singer and comedian, Roxy Lewis, juggler Mike Battie, singer and storyteller Beverley Elliott, and other artists.
Interactive workshops and activity zones run throughout the weekend. Examples of activities you might expect include juggling lessons, improv acting sessions, song writing activities, storytelling sessions, arts & crafts, puppets and operating model trains.
More Information
Buddy and Friends is a train festival that brings together historic railway experiences, kid-friendly train rides, hands-on activities, and live entertainment at the Railway Museum of BC in Squamish.
To learn more about the event, visit wcra.org.
For information about the museum in general, see our article about the Railway Museum of BC.
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