THE EXPERIENCE

Step back into the 1940s as World War II Weekend transforms the historic railroad community of Pleasant Lake into a living celebration of America’s railroad, military, and home front heritage.

This immersive two-day experience brings together a historic steam locomotive, vintage passenger trains, World War II reenactors, military encampments, historic vehicles, live big band music, and unforgettable railroad adventures honoring the generation that carried a nation to victory.

Throughout the weekend, guests will explore authentic military camps, witness live battlefield reenactments, ride historic trains, tour educational exhibits and demonstrations, and experience the sights, sounds, and spirit of wartime America.

Visitors are encouraged, but never required, to wear period clothing and become part of the living history.

Pleasant Lake becomes a bustling 1940s railroad town where trains, soldiers, civilians, and music bring history to life. Our recently restored station will become a recreated service canteen that welcomes arriving passengers, while military encampments, vintage automobile exhibits, and authentic railroad operations illustrate the vital role America’s railroads played during World War II.

Throughout Saturday and Sunday, Knights on the Town will perform live big band music at the Pleasant Lake station and aboard select train departures, providing the soundtrack to an unforgettable weekend of living history.

THE OFFERINGS

Visitors can choose from a variety of events and programs throughout the weekend.

VICTORY FLYER

Vintage steam-powered shuttle service connecting Angola and Pleasant Lake. Southbound trains depart Angola for Pleasant Lake while northbound trains return to Angola, making it easy to travel between the festival and downtown Angola throughout the weekend. Parking is not available in Pleasant Lake.

BATTLEFIELD TRAIN

Board a southbound diesel-powered troop train from Pleasant Lake to the Steubenville Battlefield, where Allied and German forces clash in a dramatic live reenactment before returning north to Pleasant Lake.

TWILIGHT LIMITED – Saturday, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM

A special Saturday evening steam excursion through the countryside featuring first class service, on-board big band music performed live, a dance car, and trip into sunset’s magic hour.

DAWN PATROL – Sunday, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Begin Sunday aboard a leisurely steam-powered breakfast excursion featuring freshly prepared breakfast served in our historic dining cars.

THE FINE PRINT

• Delivery: Tickets are emailed instantly upon purchase. Check your spam folder, and make sure your email address is entered correctly when ordering.
• Boarding Info: Parking and safety details are included in your confirmation email. Save it. We’ll also send reminders.
• Travel Together: To sit with friends, please book under one reservation.
• Refunds: Available 30+ days before travel. Credits are offered for late cancellations.
• Provisions: Passengers may bring personal food and non-alcoholic refreshments.
• Pets: Service animals are welcome, but please leave pets at home.
• Accessibility: Due to their historic nature, only select passenger cars are ADA accessible. They’re listed in the ticket selection screen.
• Review all of our terms, conditions, and safety advisories before travel.