Steampunk is defined as a genre of science fiction that incorporates 19th-century steam-powered technology and Victorian-era fashion and culture. Explaining what steampunk is can be difficult. When people ask me about it, I usually ask if they’ve seen the movie “Wild Wild West” with Will Smith. That seems to give people a good mental picture of what it is … sort of.

Steampunk unLimited will roll in to the Strasburg Rail Road, 301 Gap Road, Ronks, for the festival’s much-anticipated return on Friday through Sunday, Oct. 16 to 18.

The event will again feature powerful musical performances, unique entertainment, artisans and authors. Returning favorites to Steampunk unLimited include the Pittsburgh-based Miracle Elixir Side Show and the high-energy steampunk rock band Abney Park, to name just a few.

Throughout the weekend, there will be special happenings like Wonderland at the Grove, where guests will be able to join the party with the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts.

The juxtaposition of events illustrates steampunk perfectly. Visitors can get an up-close tour of the Strasburg Rail Road’s shop equipment in action and watch blacksmiths at work, then later take high tea or attend a Victorian ball.

It wouldn’t be a Strasburg Rail Road event without special excursions on one of the railroad’s beautifully restored steam locomotives. In addition to the high tea on board the train, special events will include a Victorian Murder Mystery, Victorian Dinner, Absinthe Cocktail Tasting and Wine and Cheese Train. Prepurchase of tickets for these events is suggested.
Tickets to Steampunk unLimited are available online at www.strasburgrailroad.com or at the railroad ticket office.