(Photo courtesy of Wheatland Express)

Whether you like model railways or you’re interested in riding a passenger train, this weekend will be the opportunity to experience all these and more in the Saskatchewan communities of Wakaw and Cudworth.

This weekend marks the first annual Railway Days Model Railway Expo and Tours in the two towns, giving urban and rural residents a chance to view and learn more about locomotives and model railways.

The event will showcase the Wheatland Express Excursion Train; three model railway clubs from Saskatoon, Prince Albert and Martensville; along with a number of other organizations, groups and volunteers.

The train will depart from both communities a couple times a day, offering residents a chance to enjoy a real-life train adventure while taking in the surrounding prairie landscapes.

“This will boost the economy, tourism, and there’s so many different things we do on the train to really showcase Saskatchewan,” said Ashlyn Weninger, the director of marketing and operations for the Wheatland Express.

Also featured in both communities will be events such as a pancake breakfast on Sunday, pop-up shops and a chance to visit the towns’ museums.

Weninger said this experience will not only give model train enthusiasts a chance to take in a unique Saskatchewan event, but it will also offer guests a chance to discover the history of the area.

“We really want to focus on the history out at Cudworth and Wakaw because that’s why those towns were built on that rail line eight miles apart,” she explained. “With the Excursion Train out there now, it’s a great way to highlight the communities.”

To find out more about this weekend’s departure times and activities, visit the Wheatland Express Facebook page.