Thirlmere Festival of Steam 2026

In 2026, Thirlmere Village will once again awaken to the enchanting sound of the steam whistle for the annual Thirlmere Festival of Steam.

Don't miss this unique and exciting weekend event for the whole family; proudly brought to you by Wollondilly Shire Council and Transport Heritage NSW, operators of the NSW Rail Museum.

Thirlmere Festival of Steam 2026

On 16 and 17 May, the NSW Rail Museum will be open with steam train rides, blacksmith demonstrations, driver's cab visits, a steam and vintage park, mini-train rides and more.

Families can also expect Thirlmere to be abuzz with market stalls, live performances, vintage car shows, street parades, and all the activities at the NSW Rail Museum, including the much-loved steam train rides. And the fun doesn't stop after dark!

Saturday night will roll straight into Festival After Dark, and it's well worth sticking around for. From 5 pm, Oaks Street lights up with market stalls, street food and live entertainment, while the action ramps up at Thirlmere Sportsground with carnival rides. Over at the NSW Rail Museum, you can even take a spin on the Ferris wheel for a sky-high view of the festivities.

The real showstopper? A rare night-time steam train experience, with three locomotives powering through in an unforgettable triple-header. And just when you think it can't get any better, the night will wrap up with a fireworks display at 8 pm.

Don't miss this must-see festival for all mini-rail enthusiasts!

Visit Thirlmere Festival of Steam for more details and to book tickets.

Where:  NSW Rail Museum, 10 Barbour Road, Thirlmere
When:  16 and 17 May 2026
Cost:    Museum only: $17 per adult & $7 per child; Steam Train Rides: $37 per adult & $17 per child

More Family Events in Sydney

Cluedo The Play: See the Hilarious Whodunnit in Sydney
Emma Memma's Jungle Picnic Tour
Bondi Festival
 

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