Old man winter is certainly putting up a good challenge for the US Holiday Train. Despite a couple of mechanical issues brought on by the frigid weather, in true artistic fashion, the show must go on. Even with temperatures dipping to a bitter -51F with the wind chill, the performers took the stage in Alexandria, Detroit Lakes, and Thief River Falls, to the delight of very enthusiastic crowds. Audiences of 150 – 200 included some regular Holiday Train attendees, who come out to support the Holiday Train no matter what the weather.
In Alexandria a mounted member of the Sheriffs Posse. With so many people trying to stay warm watching the show from their cars, Santa was busy going from car to car, handing out candy canes and good cheer. The Echo Press has put together its own slideshow of the event; Marty's "Deck the Halls" plays in the background.
Lining side roads all along the route were dozens of cars, lights off, waiting for a glimpse of the train as it passed. And although we were a bit late pulling in to our last show of the night in Thief River Falls, the crowd cheered and danced, and showed their appreciation through donations to the local Food Shelf.
We are on the move again today, with a fresh supply of hand warmers, toe warmers, snow pants, and whatever else we can find to make sure we stay toasty. Kudos to our fantastic Holiday Train Band for keeping their sense of humor, even when it seems their lips might get frozen to their microphones. Ouch! Guitar wires are apparently great cold conductors, go figure.
Christine B.
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