The Phillipsburg Railroad Festival Returns for Its Fourth Year Celebrating 173 Years Since the Rails First Arrived in Phillipsburg
Phillipsburg, N.J. Phillipsburg is rolling out the tracks once again for a day of history, family fun, and community pride as the Phillipsburg Railroad Festival returns for its fourth year on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This year’s event marks 173 years since railroads first arrived in town.
Presented by Platinum Star Cleaning and the Warren County Council of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, the festival features music, food, local vendors, historic exhibits, and hands-on experiences across three walkable locations.
The festival is made possible thanks to the support of the All-Aboard Sponsor, Peron Development.
Honoring Phillipsburg’s Rail Legacy
The first railroad to arrive in Phillipsburg was the Central Railroad of New Jersey (CNJ), which opened on July 2, 1852. Over time, Phillipsburg became a major transportation hub, once home to five major railroads, roundhouses, turntables, and the Morris Canal.
“Bringing this festival back every year has been a privilege,” said Aaron D. Coleman, owner of Platinum Star Cleaning and producer of the event. “It’s a chance to showcase the railroad nonprofits and highlight Phillipsburg’s incredible transportation history for the community and future generations.”
Festival Kickoff at Shappell Park
The celebration begins in Shappell Park (Area 1) with vendors, food, crafts, business booths, sponsors, and exhibits, along with music by DJ Clyph. At 11 a.m., the Phillipsburg High School Band will kick off festivities alongside Mayor Randy Piazza, local and state officials, followed by a ceremonial ribbon cutting commemorating 173 years of railroads in Phillipsburg and Easton.
“I’m excited to see the Railroad Festival return for the fourth year in a row,” said Mayor Piazza. “Our transportation history has always been a source of pride. This festival does a fantastic job of bringing together railroad clubs, historians, and hobbyists to share their passion and hard work with the entire community.”
Railroad Historians and Special Exhibits
Nearby, the Phillipsburg Railroad Historians will celebrate their 35th anniversary
with free miniature train rides on the Centerville & Southwestern Railroad (formerly
the Becker Farm Railroad), museum tours, antique vehicles, and the original
horse-drawn Becker Farm Milk Wagon. The group also promises a special surprise announcement this year.
Visitors can also explore railroad safety with Operation Lifesaver and see TUG, the National Museum of Industrial History’s former Bethlehem Steel rail car mover.
Tours of Historic Stations & Towers
In Area 2, guests can tour Phillipsburg Union Station, a 1914 landmark now owned by the Friends of the NJ Transportation Heritage Center. Newly restored exhibits feature antique railroad artifacts, Morris Canal history, and bus transportation displays, including a photo exhibit from McWane Ductile. The station’s façade has also been restored thanks to a county grant.
A short walk away, the Phillipsburg Union Tower, a former CNJ switch tower under restoration since 2007, will also be open to visitors.
Ride the River Train & Explore More
In Area 3, the Delaware River Railroad Excursions offers train rides along the scenic Delaware River to Riegelsville, where visitors can explore the historic train station.
Excursions include stops at the Susquehanna Mining Company for gemstone panning adventures and the Corn Maze Train at the historic Snyder Farm. Trains run every two hours, allowing visitors to hop off for local attractions and return later. Advance booking is recommended.
More Ways to Explore
The festival will also debut the Phillipsburg Self-Paced Audio Walking Tour, guiding participants through historical landmarks while sharing stories of the people and events that shaped the town.
Sponsors and Partners
This year’s All Aboard Presenting Sponsor is Peron Development, with additional support from Carnegie Agency, Unity Bank, IRCO Federal Credit Union, and SERVPRO Team Fabiani.
Festival Logistics
A free trolley service will run throughout Phillipsburg from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., connecting all three festival areas.
Save the Date
Join us in celebrating 173 years of railroad history in Phillipsburg at the Railroad Festival on Saturday, September 27, 2025.
All aboard!
For more information, visit www.phillipsburgrailroadfest.com.
Information provided to TVL by:
Phillipsburg NJ Railroad
