First Fair Train since 2019 pulls into South Palmer Station

The first Fair Train to pull into the South Palmer Station since 2019 arrived around 2 p.m. Friday, August 30. This was one of several trips offered by the Alaska Railroad for a limited run over the last weekend of the 2024 Alaska State Fair season.

Ginger Zierdt was one of several passengers who had the opportunity to enjoy a scenic train ride from Anchorage to the Palmer Station which is located right outside the Fairgrounds. She said it was an extra special experience since it was also her first time riding an Alaska Railroad train in general.

“It was beautiful,” Zierdt said.

Zierdt said that she felt lucky being a part of the first wave of passengers to ride the Fair Train during the returning season. She said that a young girl aboard the train made a comment that they were all “making history."

“This is just fantastic. The train is just wonderful. People are excited,” Zierdt said.

Scott and Stephanie Franz rode the Fair Train with their four-year-old son Barrett and other family members.

“I think it's fun. We always deal with all the traffic so it's a good way to get around the traffic," Scott said with a laugh.

Stephanie said that she was able to ride the Fair Train back before the hiatus. She said that she's thankful the unique experience is available once again. She noted that it was also an affordable adventure. Fair Train tickets were $29 for adults and $19 for children.

“I thought a $30 round trip was very generous," Stephanie said.

Stephanie said the tickets sold out very fast and she was glad that she called right away. She said it helped make their day the Fair all the more exciting for their family.

“My son loved it,” Stephanie said.

One of the perks of riding a train to the Fair is being able to take in the scenery and even having the chance to see Alaskan wildlife out the window. Barrett excitedly reported that he was able to do just that.

“I saw an eagle," Barrett said.

Alaska Railroad Onboard Services Senior Supervisor Daniel Fretwell said that he was happy with the first Fair Train’s trip to Palmer.

“I think it went great," Fretwell said. “It was a beautiful day for the ride.”

Fretwell said that he's excited that the Fair Train has returned.

“It's really unique,” Fretwell said. “It's pretty much the icing on the cake.”

Fretwell said the Alaska Railroad was an integral part of Alaska's development and having a train pull into the station again “calls back to the old days.” He noted that it also gives him feelings of anticipation over the Engine 557 restoration project.

“I'm looking forward to the day the 557 is completed and hopefully we'll see a steam engine roll into this depot,” Fretwell said.

Alaska State Fair CEO Jeff Curtis stood at the Palmer Station Saturday afternoon to watch the Fair Train pull in and wave at the first wave of passengers.

“It felt great to have the return of the Fair Train. It means so much to this Fair and this community and Alaskans to have that service,” Curtis said. “I think it's symbolic for the city of Palmer to have a train pull into the South Palmer Station… It connects the history of the Valley and the city.”

Curtis commended the Alaska Railroad for their help getting this Fair tradition back on track.

“I just want to say thanks to the Alaska Railroad. They did the hard work and heavy lifting to get the service back online,” Curtis said.