Surrey’s Fraser Valley Heritage Railway sets record in 2025 with sold-out rides and prepares for 25th anniversary celebrations in 2026.
Surrey’s Heritage Railway Marks Record-Breaking Year
Record Attendance in 2025
The Fraser Valley Heritage Rail Society (FVHRS), which operates Cloverdale’s heritage railway, celebrated its most successful season to date in 2025. Nearly 7,500 visitors climbed aboard the restored B.C. Electric interurban trains, setting a new single-season attendance record.
FVHRS secretary Allen Aubert said every weekend ride was sold out. “We completed the 2025 heritage railway season as we began—with sold out crowds,” Aubert told local media.
Expanding Capacity for Visitors
Demand often exceeded available seating, leaving some visitors unable to ride. To meet growing interest, FVHRS plans to add a second interurban to the popular Sullivan Excursion next season. Running two cars in tandem, Aubert explained, will recreate the authentic experience of historic rail travel.
New Experiences for Riders
This year also marked the society’s first time offering two distinct weekend attractions. Saturdays featured the Heritage Railway Adventure with family-friendly tours of the Discovery Centre, while Sundays showcased the Sullivan Excursion, a 55-minute journey on the restored interurban cars. Both programs sold out throughout the summer, drawing rail enthusiasts from across Canada and abroad.
Building Toward a Milestone
Looking ahead, 2026 will mark FVHRS’s 25th anniversary. Volunteers are preparing a slate of silver jubilee celebrations, including special excursions and the opening of a new spur to Sullivan Station. The expansion will allow passengers to both board and disembark at Sullivan for the first time.
“We are planning several special anniversary events to celebrate our milestone as a heritage railway society,” Aubert said.
Music, Festivals, and Special Trains
Beyond train rides, the society hosted its second annual Cloverdale Station Summer Music Festival, which drew strong crowds for live performances. The festival is expected to return next year with an expanded lineup.
Seasonal favourites are also on track. The Monster Express Halloween train, running Oct. 25–26, is already 60 per cent sold out. December will see the Christmas-themed Electric Express, recreating Cloverdale as it looked a century ago. Tickets are set to go on sale mid-October.
Keeping Surrey’s Rail History Alive
Operating out of Cloverdale Station and the Restoration Car Barn at Highway 10 and 176A Street, the FVHRS continues to grow as a cultural landmark. With record-breaking ridership, expanded experiences, and its 25th anniversary on the horizon, the society’s volunteers remain committed to preserving and sharing Surrey’s rich railway heritage.
For tickets and event information, visit fvhrs.org.
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