The Great Train Race (Heidelberg)

A celebration that brings the charm and excitement of vintage transportation to life. Inspired by the legendary 1930 race between Woolf Barnato’s Bentley and the Blue Train

Heidelberg Railway station

Heidelberg, Gauteng

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Heidelberg

The Great Train Race 2024

Feel nostalgic with vintage travel and transport at The Great Train Race in Heidelberg, Gauteng. Be amazed at the fantastic display of beautifully restored trains, cars, motorcycles, and aircraft—all together, literally bringing history to life for that nostalgic and action–packed day for young and old alike. The spectators will see an unforgettable sight of a chugging Rovos Rail steam train, while classic cars and motorcycles act as escorts on the road below and biplanes do most twirls overhead in an aerial display that will take your breath away. Replay the legendary 1930 Bentley and Le Train Bleu race from Monte Carlo to Calais, savor international and local cuisines, and enjoy a raft of family activities and live entertainment. Some of the main events include:

Take peek at our last event

Event Itenary

08h00

Gates open at the Heidelberg Airfield

Opens

10h00

Steam Train Arrival

Anticipation builds as participants wait for the Rovos Rail steam train whistles – a “double header” from 1893 and 1946 – up yonder on the olde Heidelberg bridge.

10h15

Salute at Heidelberg Station

As the train arrives at Heidelberg Station, the Stasiemeester directs both pre-war and post-war vehicles to line up along the station platform for the Salute. The platform is reserved for those in vintage attire, enhancing the historical experience.

11h05

Arrival at Heidelberg Airfield

Pilots dressed in vintage aviation gear pose alongside their aircraft for the arriving vintage cavalcade before it disperses for drivers and riders to park under the national flags of their machines’ countries of origin.

11h30

Show and Tell Sessions

The Stasiemeester invites select owners of pre-war and post-war machines onto the display ramp to discuss their vehicles.

14h00

Prize-Giving Ceremony

At 2:00 PM, the prize-giving ceremony commences, with numerous prizes awarded for machines and for individuals dressed in vintage attire

16h00

Event Conclusion

Closes