Free Fireworks Show and More!

Firecracker Express Train Rides

Train rides will be offered at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Boarding is at Barber Junction Visitor Center.

No large coolers or oversized items (i.e. wagons, etc.) permitted on the train.

Train Ride Prices:

Adults: $12 ($10.00 + $2.00 handling fee)*
Senior (65+)/Military**: $10.75 ($9.00 + $1.75 handling fee)*
Children (3-12): $9.75 ($8.00 + $1.75 handling fee)*

Kids under 3 are free and do not require a ticket.
Members are free but are encouraged to reserve a ticket in advance using your membership number.

*These prices do not include NC sale taxes. Event operates rain or shine. No refunds or exchanges.
**Must present approved military ID along with ticket for entry. Limit 1 per military ID.

ASTC Travel Passport Program reciprocity benefits not valid for this special event.

Fireworks Over Historic Spencer Shops

June 27, 2026

6:00 – 9:45 p.m.

Free Fireworks Show and More!

Firecracker Express Train Rides

Train rides will be offered at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Boarding is at Barber Junction Visitor Center.

No large coolers or oversized items (i.e. wagons, etc.) permitted on the train.

Train Ride Prices:

$10 for Adults
$9 for Senior (65+)/Military
$8 for Children (3-12)

Kids under 3 are free and do not require a ticket.
Members are free but are encouraged to reserve a ticket in advance using your membership number.

*These prices do not include taxes or fees. Event operates rain or shine. No refunds or exchanges.
**Must present approved military ID along with ticket for entry. Limit 1 per military ID.

ASTC Travel Passport Program reciprocity benefits not valid for this special event.

Enjoy a night of family fun at the N.C. Transportation Museum for Fireworks Over Historic Spencer Shops on Saturday, June 27! The Museum will close at 5:00 p.m. with limited buildings and exhibits remaining open until the fireworks begin. Museum grounds reopen with FREE children’s activities starting at 6:00 p.m. and wrap up with a glorious fireworks show celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary beginning at 9:15 p.m. In the event of severe weather, fireworks show timing may be adjusted.

On display will be the Ride of Pride trucks from Daimler Trucks North America’s Cleveland, NC plant.

Letters From Home

In celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary, Letters From Home, a heartwarming USO style duo with a sincere message of hope and patriotism will dazzle, charm and move the audience with snappy tap dancing, family-friendly comedy, stunning vocals and explosive personality.

FREE performance from 7-8:05 p.m. in the south end of the Back Shop. Chairs are provided but limited.

Purchase a ticket to ride on the Firecracker Express! Ride in a vintage passenger railcar pulled by one of our diesel locomotives. The ride takes place entirely on the property of the 60-acre North Carolina Transportation Museum and offers a tour of the historic site by train. You’ll ride along and see the structures that were used to service Southern Railway’s steam locomotives when the Spencer Shops were in operation. Passengers may get off the train at the Roundhouse for the best fireworks viewing! Train rides last approximately 25 minutes and are fun for all ages. All passengers will receive a patriotic souvenir.

While registered service animals are allowed on museum property, please leave pets at home. Coolers are permitted, but this is an alcohol free event. Food vendors will be onsite with items for purchase.

Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. Main fireworks viewing area in front of the Bob Julian Roundhouse.

FREE Activities in addition to Letter From Home: