Meininger Dampfloktage

The last DB steam locomotive workshop in Europe

The Meiningen Steam Locomotive Works is a technological specialty of European importance: it is the only Deutsche Bahn AG workshop where steam locomotives are still maintained, repaired, and overhauled in major inspections today. This makes it one of the last large steam locomotive workshops in Western Europe. The locomotives of all major German railway museums and special train operators are serviced here — and new components such as boiler parts are manufactured. This workshop opens its gates every year for the Steam Locomotive Days.

Since 1995 — a railway institution

The Meininger Dampfloktage have been held since 1995 — meaning in 2026 it will be the 30th+ edition. Over the three decades, the format has developed into a pilgrimage site for railway fans: model railway enthusiasts, steam locomotive lovers, railway historians, and families travel from all over Germany and from German-speaking countries. Around 14,000 paying visitors annually (children free) make the Dampfloktage one of the largest railway events in Thuringia.

Guided tours and cab visits

The central experience of the Dampfloktage are the half-hourly guided tours through the works. Experienced works employees lead groups through the halls — from the boiler shop to the lathe and the forge — explaining the process of steam locomotive overhaul: maintenance, repair, major inspection. Operational historic steam locomotives are displayed on the premises, and their cabs can be visited. Adults can train to become “volunteer steam locomotive drivers” and operate a locomotive themselves under supervision.

Program for children

Children can ride in the cab of a narrow-gauge steam locomotive — a small locomotive pulls an open passenger car around the works premises. In addition, there are hands-on activities, a model railway exhibition, and child-friendly demonstrations. This makes the festival clearly intended as a family event — not just a niche for railway fans.

Dealers, model railways, and books

Numerous dealers present railway collectibles, model railway equipment, railway books, and souvenirs on the works premises. In addition, there are lectures by railway historians and works experts. Food and drinks are available at several stands — Thuringian Bratwurst, Roster, cakes, drinks. An exciting day event for the whole family.

Meiningen — a southern Thuringian industrial city with railway tradition

Meiningen is the district town of Schmalkalden-Meiningen — historically known primarily as a theater city (Stadt- und Hütesfest). However, the city also has its place industrially: the steam locomotive works has been a significant employer since the late 19th century. With the Dampfloktage, the city combines both identities — cultural heritage and industrial substance — in an event that shines far beyond the city limits.