Kamloops was buzzing with holiday cheer Thursday evening as the CPKC Holiday Train rolled into the city, bringing festive lights, community spirit—and a 30-minute performance by Canadian music legends The Barenaked Ladies.

Several hundred, possibly in the range of around 2,000 people, braved the winter chill outside the Sandman Centre to catch the live show, singing along to classics and soaking in the holiday magic.

The train, which began its B.C. journey earlier in the week with stops in Sicamous, Salmon Arm, Canoe and Notch Hill, made its memorable stop in Kamloops before continuing through Savona and Ashcroft on Thursday evening.

The festive tour will roll through Lytton on Friday morning, then conclude with the final B.C. performances in the Fraser Valley on December 19th and 20th.

While the Barenaked Ladies’ had the crowd energized, with many dancing and singing along, the event’s deeper purpose was never far from mind.

For more than 20 years, the CPKC Holiday Train has been supporting food banks across Canada, and Thursday evening’s stop in Kamloops was no exception.

“This is like a Christmas card coming to town,” said Bernadette Siracky, CEO of the Kamloops Food Bank. “The music draws the crowd, but the real gift is the support our community receives.”

“It’s heartwarming to see everyone come together for this cause,” she added.

The crowd’s energy was electric as the band performed hits like “If I Had a Million Dollars” and other fan favourites, all while local supporters donated generously to the Kamloops Food Bank.

“Seeing hundreds of people out here, enjoying music and giving back, really reminds you of the spirit of the season,” said Siracky.

“This event brings people together, and it makes a huge difference for those who rely on the food bank.”