SHELBURNE FALLS — Trolleyfest is slated to return to the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum this weekend, offering visitors a chance to see the restored No. 10 trolley and consider what the lives of those who worked on the trolley in the early 20th century was like.

The trolley was in operation from 1896 to 1927, traveling across what is now known as the Bridge of Flowers. The trolley car was saved by the Johnson family of Colrain and kept on their farm, until it was donated to the 14 Depot St. museum in 1992.

Thirty-four years later, the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum is celebrating the historic trolley with its annual Trolleyfest. The event is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26. All-day bracelets for adults are $7, bracelets for children ages 6 to 17 years old are $5, and children under the age of 6 will be admitted for free. These bracelets allow access to all rides and activities throughout the day.

Attendees at a previous Trolleyfest milk a "cow." This demonstration will be brought back for the 2026 iteration of the event.
Attendees at a previous Trolleyfest milk a “cow.” This demonstration will be brought back for the 2026 iteration of the event. Credit: CONTRIBUTED

Event attendees will have numerous activities to participate in. Visitors can take rides on the No. 10 trolley, the restored Central Vermont caboose, the speeder and the velocipede, which is an early version of the modern bicycle.

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors can expect a slew of demonstrations, including butter-making, cider-making, weaving, Morse code demonstrations and an opportunity to milk a “cow.” Younger visitors can play games their counterparts from the early 20th century would have participated in, and there will also be a woodcarving demonstration for older children and adults.

Maple products from Davenport Maple Farm and preserves from Barberic Farm will be available to buy, while antique farming tools from Wheel-View Farm will be on display.

The gift shop will be open throughout the duration of the event, offering train-themed puzzles, toys and books. Two of the available books were written by volunteers at the Trolley Museum: Marie Betts Bartlett’s “The Little Yellow Trolley Car” and Alden Dreyer’s “The Tired Telegrapher’s Terribly Tall Traveler’s Tale.”

For more information on the event, visit sftm.org.