The Railroad Museum of New England is gearing up for a major milestone.

The museum and its affiliated Naugatuck Railroad will celebrate 30 years of operation in Connecticut's upper Naugatuck Valley this September with a weekend of special events and excursions.

It was Sept. 26, 1996, when the museum and railroad first began operations. Now, volunteers and staff are marking three decades of preserving railroad history.

The centerpiece of the celebration will be the return of historic New Haven RS-3 Locomotive No. 529. The vintage locomotive is being restored to service and will pull special anniversary trains for the first time in 15 years.

Visitors can experience the sights and sounds of the classic engine as it travels through the scenic Naugatuck River Valley during the "Celebrate 30" festivities Sept. 25 through 27.

The Railroad Museum of New England is home to one of the Northeast's most significant collections of historic railroad equipment and rolling stock.

A full season of themed train rides is also on tap, including the Chocolate Decadence Tour, Tequila Train, BBQ & Bourbon Special, Pumpkin Patch Express, Santa Express and the popular Naugatuck River Scenic Train.

For a complete event calendar and ticket information, visit the Railroad Museum of New England website.