Rail enthusiasts in Northern California will have a rare opportunity this spring as the Union Pacific Big Boy 4014 — the world’s largest operating steam locomotive — arrives in Portola on April 8, 2026, marking Big Boy’s return to the region.
The appearance is part of a special event hosted by the Western Pacific Railroad Museum.
The event will offer the public an opportunity to view the historic locomotive during daytime activities at the museum. To conclude the day, a fundraising dinner will be held at Nakoma Resort, located just west of Portola.
Doors for the dinner will open at 6:30 p.m., with a buffet meal beginning at 7:00 p.m. The evening will include a presentation by Ed Dickens, engineer of Big Boy 4014 and manager of Union Pacific Heritage Operations. Additional members of the 4014 crew are also expected to attend.
Tickets for the dinner are priced at $100 per person, with proceeds benefiting the Western Pacific Railroad Museum. Attendance is limited to 160 guests, and ticket sales are scheduled to close at midnight on March 22, 2026, or when capacity is reached.
Tickets for both the daytime event and the dinner are available through the museum’s event website. Attendees are advised to print their purchase receipt, which will serve as admission to the event.
