For the first time, the Queenstown Winter Festival is including Kingston in its calendar of events, with the Kingston Flyer Steam Powered Party on July 1 promising to bring a different element to the festival.
Festival director Simon Green said the party had been timed to allow festival-goers to return from Kingston to Queenstown in time for the Mardi Gras, this year being held as part of the closing party.
"The Kingston Flyer crew are very excited about starting up the old girl in the middle of winter as the locomotive is normally only up and running for charter during the winter months.
"I also love the fact that new owner David Bryce is prepared to get in there and amongst it and give new things a go - he's up for anything to showcase his magnificent train ..."
The party, which begins at 11.30am, would be finished by 2.30pm, with the festival Mardi Gras due to start at 4pm.
Transport and meals would be available on the day and could be pre-booked on the Kingston Flyer website - people were encouraged to pre-book meals, transport and train tickets with limited availability on the day.
Mr Green said the winter spirit would be alive and well, with free roasted chestnuts at Kingston and mulled wine available on the train.
Train fares will cost $45 for adults, $22.50 for children up to the age of 15, or a family pass - two adults and two children - for $112.50.
The Winter Festival Scenic Coach will provide return trips for $25 per person, leaving Athol St at 10am and returning to Queenstown at 2.30pm.
