When I heard about 'Day Out with Thomas', I thought it sounded fun, but, this event completely exceeded my expectations.
Here's what I expected:
Ride the Thomas train with my family and buy some Thomas merchandise. Take lots of photos in front of the 15-ton replica of everybody’s favorite #1 engine.
Here's what it was really like:
We first spotted the huge welcome banner hanging high at the entrance of the festival area. There was a gigantic tent set up with Thomas merchandise (as expected). But, to my surprise, there was also a water sprinkler set up so the kids could cool off in the summer heat, and two large moon bounces for the kids to bounce around.
We wandered down the hill towards the railroad tracks and my children's eyes lit up. It was like a mini village set up with various kid-friendly activities. There was spin art, coloring areas, a stamping station, temporary tattoos, train tables and megablocks for the kids to play with. This was just one tent!
There was also an area with farm animals for the kids to pet and admire. Another tent gave kids a chance to get their photo taken with Sir Topham Hatt. You could also get your photo taken with the real train conductors. We also saw a juggling performer at another area. There was a good variety of food and drinks for sale.
Riding the train was warm (no A/C), but still lots of fun. Each child received an official certificiate to commemorate their big day out.
From a mom's perspective, I was really impressed that they had a hand washing station and ample potties. There were tons of volunteers and employees to help out. Everyone was extremely friendly and helpful.
So, when they say "Day out with Thomas" they really mean it. You could spend hours at the event and always be doing something different. It was an afternoon filled with non-stop entertainment and we really had a fantastic day in Phillipsburg, NJ.
My kids had their grandparents along for our big Day out with Thomas, so our train ride was extra special. It was so nice seeing my boys enjoy this fun-filled day with their Mom-mom and Pop-pop.
Memories of a lifetime in the making!
For more information about Day Out with Thomas check here for details.