CPKC Holiday Train returning to Port Moody Dec. 20 with music, bonfire and Barenaked Ladies performance

Port Moody’s holiday season is slated to hit full steam on Dec. 20 when the CPKC Holiday Train rolls into town, bringing thousands of lights, live music and a full slate of family festivities.

Mayor Meghan Lahti said the celebration continues to be a highlight of the holiday season and an important fundraiser for local families.

“The CPKC Holiday Train is an annual tradition in Port Moody, and it’s one you don’t want to miss,” she stated in a release from the city. “It’s all about gathering with and giving back to our community.

The brightly lit train will arrive behind the Port Moody Recreation Complex at 4:50 p.m., with a performance by the Barenaked Ladies starting at 5:15 p.m. The event, now in its 27th year, runs from 4 to 6 p.m.

SHARE Family and Community Services will be on site to accept cash or healthy food donations, all of which will stay in the Tri-Cities.

The outdoor portion of the event kicks off at 4 p.m. with live entertainment and a bonfire tended by Port Moody Fire Rescue. Hot chocolate, chili and hot dogs will be available by donation.

Musical performances also include Abegail Avram, the École Moody Middle School of the Arts choir, and Newport Brass.

The Holiday Train itself will be viewable from two designated areas: Trasolini Field, which offers the best sightlines and more space, and the trail between the field and the tracks. Dogs are not permitted on sports fields, and due to limited pet-friendly areas, the city is encouraging residents to leave dogs at home.

The cross-country train tour raises funds and food for local food banks and is operated by CPKC.

Outdoor activities will proceed rain, snow or shine, and the city is urging attendees to dress for winter conditions.

Inside the Recreation Complex, the Wellness Room will host live music, crafts, cookie decorating and festive temporary tattoos. Operation Lifesaver will also be present with train-safety education.

Families with young children can head to the gymnasium for an active play zone, button-making station and photo opportunities with a holiday mascot.

A sensory-friendly space will be open in the Youth Lounge throughout the event.

The city is advising residents to plan ahead, as parking at the Recreation Complex will be extremely limited. A large section of the lot will close at 5 a.m. on event day, and pedestrians arriving from Shoreline Trail will not be able to cross the tracks via the Trasolini Connector after 4 p.m.

Drivers are advised to avoid Murray Street between Ioco Road and the Moody Street overpass from 4:45 to 5:15 p.m., as the train’s arrival will temporarily block traffic. Carpooling and transit are strongly recommended; those who must drive are encouraged to park at the Moody Centre Park and Ride and take SkyTrain to Inlet Centre Station before walking to the site.

All activities are free and open to all ages, with food and beverage donations supporting Tri-Cities families in need, according to a statement from the city.