By Jamie Johnson
Twelve years ago, we hosted the very first Romance at the RailPark. We had no idea what to expect. Would anyone buy a ticket to dine in vintage railcars at the historic train depot? Would couples embrace themed evenings filled with music, décor, and creativity? Would this idea even last beyond one year?
What happened next surprised all of us.
Over the past twelve years, Romance at the RailPark has grown into one of our most beloved annual traditions — generating more than $100,000 in support of the Historic RailPark & Train Museum.
That number represents more than ticket sales. It represents stability.
For a tourism-based nonprofit, the winter months can be quiet. Visitor traffic slows. Gift shop sales dip. Group tours pause. But utilities, insurance, payroll, and maintenance do not. Romance at the RailPark became a critical source of operational funding during one of the slowest times of the year.
While operational funding may not sound “romantic,” it is essential. Even nonprofits must ensure steady support to sustain daily operations. This event provided a much-needed boost, helping us quite literally keep the doors open.
And for that, we are deeply grateful.
From the beginning, food was central to the experience. We launched the event in partnership with Dafnel DeVasir of Sweet Temptations Catering. Even after the business changed hands, the tradition continued. Later, Cambridge Market joined us with their welcoming hospitality and traditional favorites. Most recently, we had the pleasure of working with It’s a Southern Thing Catering, bringing their own distinct Southern flair to the evening. Each catering partner brought something unique. And yes, it was always delicious.
Of course, no Romance at the RailPark would be complete without wine. We are especially thankful for our long-standing partnership with Reid’s Livery Winery, who stood with us year after year to help create a truly special evening.
The first years began with a simple but meaningful theme of romance. Over time, the event evolved into a wide variety of movie-inspired and era-driven experiences that kept guests coming back year after year. Themes included When Harry Met Sally (2017), Harvey Girls (2018), You’ve Got Mail (2019), a classic Valentine’s theme (2020), Dirty Dancing (2022), Purple Rain (2023), New Orleans 1947 – Mardi Gras (2024), Blue Hawaii (2025), and Disco: Saturday Night Fever (2026).
Each year brought new music, décor, costumes, and unforgettable moments inside the Depot walls. Romance at the RailPark was never just about a theme. It was about the people who brought it to life. We were fortunate to have Maddie Arney begin volunteering with us in the early years, playing the harp and setting the tone for an elegant evening. Her music became a staple of the event for many years and helped define the atmosphere guests came to expect.
Through the partnership of a local dance studio, volunteer and dancer Cadence Carr helped bring live performance into the Depot. Cadence has served the RailPark in many capacities over the years, and her family’s support runs deep. Her late grandfather, John Forsee, was a longtime volunteer and board member whose dedication helped shape the organization. What could be sweeter than the continued love and support of the Carr family across generations?
We were also grateful to Fountain Square Players for offering poetry readings in past years, adding a thoughtful and artistic touch that elevated the romance of the evening.
Other memorable entertainers added energy and personality to the event. T. Martell, a talented local musician, performed a powerful montage of Prince in celebration of our Purple Rain theme. A Memphis native brought Elvis to life during Blue Hawaii, reminding us all why “The King” still reigns. DJ Tez helped us close this chapter in true disco fashion, spinning the perfect soundtrack for our final boarding of Romance.
The late Romanza Johnson, alongside Connie Pittman and the Bowling Green Garden Club, brought beauty to the event year after year with stunning rose bouquets for our guests. Their attention to detail elevated the experience in ways both seen and felt.
And our MVPs, James Brown and his protégé, Timothy Weedimer, provided the most authentic conductor experience imaginable. Their boarding calls, uniforms, and presence made guests feel as though they were truly stepping into another era.
We are beyond grateful for the many performers, volunteers, families, and supporters who gave their time and talent to make Romance at the RailPark a beloved tradition.
As much as we cherish this event, part of strong leadership is knowing when it’s time to refresh, refocus, and create space for something new.
It is bittersweet to announce that Romance at the RailPark has reached the end of its run.
Twelve years is an incredible chapter. But just as important as honoring tradition is recognizing when it’s time to switch gears and keep our programming fresh and forward-looking. Romance brought us joy. It built community. It sustained operations. It created memories for hundreds of guests. And it helped strengthen the RailPark during critical moments.
To every sponsor, caterer, musician, volunteer, and guest who supported Romance at the RailPark, thank you.
You helped write a beautiful chapter in our story.
And while this era may be closing, the spirit of creativity, celebration, and community that defined Romance at the RailPark will continue to shape what comes next.
Stay tuned.
