ROCHELLE — Local residents and train enthusiasts, are gearing up for a fun weekend of food, games, live music and trains, as the Rochelle Railroad days returns this June 1-2.
The event will take place at the Ken Wise Railroad Park from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days. The festival is great for both the local community and train super fans that come from all across the country.
“We have a couple thousand rail fans visit each year,” said Jenny Thompson, marketing and public relations manager for the City of Rochelle. “This is a way for them to gather and visit.”

Railroad Days has become somewhat of a tradition in the community, going back many years, and his year the city has added many new activities ranging from live music, food venders and even a tour of the town.
“This year we have kids’ games, a history presentation, live folk music from a professional violinist, and even a bus that takes guests on a loop around town,” said Thompson.  
The festival is meant for family, friends and rail fans to hang out and have a good time. But the event also serves a bigger purpose than just entertainment.
“This event is important because it shows off the best features of our community,” said Thompson. “It is also something to do and a great way to get out of the house. For those of us who have grown up around trains, we forget they are there. This is a great way for residents to go down to the train yard and learn some of the history.”