The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways will host a new summer gala, the ‘Extreme Steam Extravaganza’, from June 19–21, 2026, promising an unusual and intensive programme of operations.
Billed under the theme of “Weird and Wonderful”, the three-day event will feature a wide range of unusual train formations, rarely-seen locomotive combinations and complex shunting movements, designed to deliver an intensive timetable across the network.
Organisers say visitors can expect “some sights the likes of which you may never have seen before”, with a variety of special workings planned across both the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways.
Enjoy more The Railway Magazine reading every month.
Click here to subscribe & save.
Among the highlights is a unique opportunity for visitors to influence Sunday’s locomotive roster, with Day Rover and three-day ticket holders invited to vote for which engines will haul specific trains.
The event will include a mix of vintage and mixed-formation trains, alongside a range of operations designed to showcase the railways’ diverse rolling stock and locomotives.
A Mini Model Railway Show will also take place at The Gweithdy in Minffordd across the same dates, featuring layouts and trade stalls and open to visitors free of charge.
In addition, activities begin ahead of the main gala, with an early evening service on Thursday 18 June for those arriving in advance, linking with national rail services and offering additional opportunities to experience the railway.
Travel to the event will be available via a combination of rover tickets, shuttle trains and standard services, with organisers noting that train travel and event entry tickets are sold separately.
With a packed programme and an emphasis on unusual operations, the Extreme Steam Extravaganza is set to offer a distinctive addition to the 2026 heritage railway calendar.
👉 For full details and to book tickets, visit: Buy tickets and find out more
