Explore trains, history and more at Forsyth festival

Since its inception in 2013, during what was the 175th anniversary of the railway being in Forsyth, the Historic Train Festival has grown to include more vendors, children’s activities, and multiple historic exhibits that help celebrate the history of the city and the railroad.

The festival will be celebrated Saturday at the Historic Train Depot.

“There will be events for the whole family, and lots of events for kids. We have a Hobo Parade and costume contest on Jackson Street at 10 a.m.,” said Michael Norris, economic development director for the city of Forsyth. “The children will dress up in old fashioned clothes and ride train floats down Johnston Street to the Train Depot.”

Other kids’ events will include an inflatable fair on Johnston Street and a children’s art show at the library. But there are plenty of events for adults, too.

“There will no longer be a chili cook-off,” Norris said, “but there are vendors available, selling food and drinks. One of the most interesting events is the Rattle the Tracks Car and Bike Cruise In on Railroad Avenue, beginning at 8 a.m. and going until noon. It’s not a contest, but there are always a lot of interesting vehicles to look at.”

At 2 p.m., country music star Jacob Bryant will be performing. Bryant, who began his career at 8-years-old, believes that music is about creating a bond between creator and listener.

“I care about reaching people with my songs, and I want to touch people through music,” Bryant said on his website. “Music shouldn’t be about being famous or money. It’s about a bond between you and I. I hope my story touches you.”

Built in 1899, the Train Depot will showcase exhibits featuring the history of the railroad and Forsyth.

“There will be some really fun exhibits to see,” Norris said. “This event gets bigger every year.”

Instead of an admission fee for the festival, attendees are being asked to donate canned food items and new toys, which will be given to Care Cottage for the holidays.

“Please help support our local community. Drop off your items at the information booth,” he said. “The whole festival will be a lot of fun for the whole family and the weather is going to be great. Come out and have a good time!”

This story was originally published November 3, 2016 at 4:48 PM with the headline "Explore trains, history and more at Forsyth festival."