The Barenaked Ladies are playing in Maple Ridge this Friday, Dec. 19, with the CPKC Holiday Train.
The community will gather at Port Haney Station for the free concert to benefit local food banks.
The event will run from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and the train festooned with Christmas lights will bring its rolling stage at 7:50 p.m., with the Barenaked Ladies playing for a half an hour starting at 8 p.m.
The City of Maple Ridge is hosting the event, encouraging guests to arrive early and enjoy pre-arrival festivities, including crafts, music, and hot chocolate, as the community comes together to wait for the train’s arrival.
“The Holiday Train captures everything our community does best – neighbours gathering, giving back, and celebrating the season together,” said Mayor Dan Ruimy. “We’re proud to welcome back the train and thankful to everyone who supports Friends In Need Food Bank through this special event and all season long.”
Parking at the event site is limited. Attendees are strongly encouraged to park in downtown Maple Ridge and walk to Port Haney Station. Make the journey part of the experience by strolling south down 224 Street’s ‘Candy Cane Lane,’ leading to the event site on River Road.
A limited number accessible parking spaces will be available at the bottom of 224 Street. These spaces are expected to fill quickly, and early arrival is recommended. There will also be an additional accessible drop-off and pick-up location on 223rd Street adjacent to River Road.
Then the train will roll down the track for a second concert in Pitt Meadows, as the Harris Road Train Crossing, from 9:05 to 9:35 p.m.
It’s a unique concert where it can be watched from both sides of the tracks.
The Harris Road crossing will be closed from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. for the event.
Concert-goers are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items or cash donations in support of Friends In Need Food Bank.
Now in its 27th year, the CPKC Holiday Train has been offering Christmas concerts and supporting food banks since its inaugural journey in 1999. Over the years, it has raised more than $26 million.