For one extraordinary day, the Zig Zag Railway transforms into something entirely different. On Saturday 3 October 2026, the historic Clarence Station becomes the Zig Zag Academy of Steam & Sorcery, and families across NSW are invited to enrol.
Wizards Express has long been one of Zig Zag Railway’s most-loved special events, and the 2026 edition is the biggest and most immersive yet. This isn’t simply a themed train ride. It’s a full day of magical classes, House rivalries, mysterious characters and steam-powered spectacle, all built around the real history of one of Australia’s most remarkable heritage railways.
More Than a Train Ride
At the heart of the day is the Wizards Express itself: a genuine steam journey through the Blue Mountains that becomes part of the Academy’s story. The sound of the whistle, the plume of steam, the rhythm of the carriages, all of it becomes something a little more magical for the day.
But the adventure doesn’t stop when guests step off the train. The whole Clarence Station precinct becomes the Academy, with classes, characters and activities woven throughout the grounds.
Sorted Into a House
On arrival, every student is welcomed into one of the Academy’s five Houses: Whitton, Higgins, Belmore, Thornton or Zolfel. Each House takes its name and character from a real figure in Zig Zag Railway’s history, and each comes with its own colours, crest, motto and animal totem.
Which House will you belong to?
A Full Day of Magical Classes
Throughout the day, students can take part in hands-on classes and activities including:
- Potions
- Pyromantics
- Care of Magical Creatures
- Herbology
- Ancient Runes
- Trackology
- Zuggle Studies
Add in themed food and drink, magical merchandise, and no shortage of photo opportunities, and it’s a day designed to be discovered in full, not rushed through.
Built by the Next Generation
Much of the magic of Wizards Express has been created and delivered by Zig Zag Railway’s Next Generation volunteers, whose creativity and hard work bring the Academy’s classes, props and theming to life. It’s a genuine community effort, and it shows in the detail.
Not Just for Kids
While Wizards Express is a natural fit for families with children, the depth of the Academy’s world, from House lore to character detail, has been designed to appeal to guests of all ages. Teenagers, young adults, grandparents and dedicated fantasy fans will find just as much to enjoy as younger students.
When the Sun Goes Down, the Magic Continues
As the Academy’s classes wind down for the day, the magic doesn’t stop. A special 4:30pm Wizards Express service takes guests from Clarence to the historic Top Points Station for Movie Under the Stars, an outdoor cinema experience beneath the Blue Mountains sky.
Guests will settle in as daylight fades over the mountains for a screening of a much-loved wizarding classic, shown on a large 6m x 3.5m outdoor cinema screen in one of the railway’s most atmospheric settings.
Movie Under the Stars is a drawcard in its own right, and not just for families. It’s a great fit for teenagers, young adults, couples and anyone who loves a good outdoor cinema night. With capacity capped at 285 guests, this is a strictly limited session.
Planning Your Visit
Event date: Saturday 3 October 2026 Location: Zig Zag Railway, Clarence NSW Precinct opens: 9:00am Academy classes: 9:30am–4:30pm Daytime Wizards Express departures from Clarence: 10:30am, 12:30pm and 2:30pm Movie Under the Stars departure from Clarence: 4:30pm (Top Points Station, capacity 285)
Tickets: Daytime Wizards Express tickets are on sale now. Movie Under the Stars tickets will be sold separately when live. Wizards Express is one of Zig Zag Railway’s most popular events and places are limited, so early booking is recommended.
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, a camera, and a costume if you’re feeling adventurous. Café, picnic and toilet facilities are available on-site.
Your Letter Has Arrived
A real steam railway. A secret magical academy. One extraordinary day when the two worlds collide. And when the sun goes down, the magic continues under the stars.
Enrol now at the Zig Zag Academy of Steam & Sorcery. Saturday 3 October only, with limited student places available.
