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Discover "Day Out With Thomas" Events In New York! (2024)

Published: May 1, 2023

By: Adam Burns

"Day Out With Thomas" events are popular a family-friendly venues that allow children and adults to experience the world of Thomas & Friends up close and personal. In the state of New York, Thomas will visit the Medina Railroad Museum.  More information about this event may be found further below.

A "Day Out With Thomas" events are  currently owned by HIT Entertainment (a subsidiary of Mattel), and based on the British animated television series Thomas & Friends for children.

Over the years it has captured the hearts of young viewers all over the world. Originally created as a series of books in 1945 by the Reverend Wilbert Awdry, the franchise has since expanded into a multimedia empire that includes multiple television series, feature films, and an extensive line of merchandise.

The television series, which first aired in 1984, follows the adventures of a group of anthropomorphic trains on the fictional island of Sodor. The titular character, Thomas, is a cheeky little blue engine who is always eager to please and help his friends. Along with his fellow locomotives, he embarks on a variety of adventures and learns valuable lessons about friendship, teamwork, and perseverance.

One of the key strengths of the Thomas & Friends franchise is its emphasis on positive values and messages. The stories often involve characters facing challenges or conflicts that require them to work together and find creative solutions. Through these experiences, viewers are exposed to themes such as empathy, responsibility, and respect for others.

Another notable aspect of the series is its use of storytelling and worldbuilding. Over the course of the various iterations of the franchise, the fictional world of Sodor has been fleshed out with a rich history and mythology. Viewers are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own distinct personalities and quirks. This attention to detail helps to create a sense of immersion and engagement that keeps viewers coming back for more.

The animation style of the series is also worth mentioning. The use of model trains and practical effects gives the show a unique visual aesthetic that sets it apart from other animated series. The attention to detail in the models and sets is impressive, and the use of practical effects such as smoke and steam adds to the sense of realism.

In recent years, the franchise has undergone some changes. The original series, which featured traditional hand-drawn animation and model trains, was replaced by a computer-animated version in 2009. More recently, the show has undergone a further rebranding, with new characters and storylines being introduced to appeal to a modern audience.

Despite these changes, the core values and themes of the series remain intact. Thomas & Friends continues to be a beloved franchise that provides young viewers with engaging and educational content. Whether you're a fan of the classic series or the newer iterations, there's no denying the enduring appeal of Thomas and his friends.

Medina Railroad Museum

(Medina): The Medina Railroad Museum mostly looks to preserve the area's railroad history.  The museum is housed in the New York Central's former freight depot which dates back to 1905.  The building is significant as the largest wooden freight depot ever built for the NYC and now houses the museum's collection of over 6,000 artifacts.

In addition to these pieces the museum also operates a 34-mile round trip excursion train. One of their specials is hosting "Day Out With Thomas" events in May.

2023 Dates

• May 20 - May 21

• May 27 - May 28

One of the museum's most impressive artifacts is the original bell from New York Central 4-4-0 #999, which broke the-then world speed record for the fastest moving vehicle on earth in May, 1893 by reaching a top speed of 112.5 mph.

Another highlight of the museum is its operating model train layout. This impressive display features a detailed replica of the town of Medina in the 1940s, complete with a variety of buildings, vehicles, and people. The model trains run on multiple tracks, providing a captivating visual experience for visitors of all ages.  Other layouts depict railroads in the Civil War era.

In addition to its exhibits and displays, the Medina Railroad Museum also hosts a range of special events throughout the year. These may include train rides, holiday-themed events, and educational programs for children.

Overall, the Medina Railroad Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone with an interest in trains and railroads. Its impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits, along with its beautiful historic setting, make it a unique and memorable attraction that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.