NC By Train Adds Salisbury Stops for 2025 Cheerwine Festival

The N.C. Department of Transportation's Rail Division has announced special train service adjustments to accommodate attendees of the annual Cheerwine Festival in Salisbury on May 17, 2025. NC By Train will add stops in Salisbury for multiple trains, including Train 71 at 8:45 a.m. and Train 76 at 7:23 p.m., allowing passengers from cities such as Charlotte, Kannapolis, High Point, Greensboro, Burlington, Durham, Cary, and Raleigh to travel conveniently to the festival. This initiative supports the growing ridership on NC By Train, which saw a 12% increase in 2024 to over 720,000 passengers, marking a 55% rise since 2019, reflecting increased interest in sustainable travel options. The Cheerwine Festival, celebrating the iconic cherry-flavored soda originated in Salisbury in 1917, features a variety of activities including food, drinks, live music, unique merchandise, arts and crafts, trolley tours, and special product tastings like the limited-edition Cheerwine Goo Goo Cluster. The festival has become a major cultural event, drawing tens of thousands of visitors annually and contributing significantly to Salisbury’s local economy. These transportation adjustments not only improve access but also reduce traffic and parking challenges, enhancing the overall experience for festivalgoers.