Thanks to G. for sending Monday afternoon.
WMATA shares: “Our team worked overnight and into the morning to transport our fully restored 1000-series train and 8000-series mockup to the National Mall!
Check them out from June 25 – July 10 at the Great American State Fair, and join us as we continue celebrating 50 years of Metro!”
Full release from WMATA:
“In celebration of Metro’s 50th Anniversary and America’s 250th, Metro today announced its participation at the Great American State Fair with an exhibition titled “America’s Metro System.” The exhibition is a nod to Metro’s past and present, featuring Metro’s very first 1000-series railcar refurbished to its 1976-era glory and a new 8000-series railcar, the newest addition to the fleet. The first 8000-series test cars are expected to arrive in late 2027. This exhibition will be featured on the National Mall among other exhibitors representing all 50 states during the 15-day showcase.
Metro’s five decades of service to the National Capital Region will be highlighted in the exhibition through historic photographs and artifacts, interactive displays, educational activities, multimedia experiences, and explorations of the future of transportation and mobility. The exhibition connects Metro to the broader story of American infrastructure, accessibility, innovation, and growth.
“For 50 years, Metro has connected people across the region to jobs, schools, healthcare, culture, and opportunity,” said Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke. “This exhibition celebrates the people, partnerships, and progress that helped shape Metro’s first five decades while highlighting the important role public transportation continues to play in the future of our region and country.”
A dedicated gallery of archival images in the train cars will highlight key milestones in Metro’s history, including system expansions, engineering achievements, customer experience improvements, and investments that continue to support the region’s growth and connectivity.
“Metro’s story is, above all, about the communities and customers we serve each day,” said Metro Board Chair Valerie Santos. “This milestone is not just a moment of celebration, but a testament to the employees, riders, and regional partners who power our progress and keep our region moving.”
The Great American State Fair will bring together exhibitions, educational programming, entertainment, and interactive experiences focused on American history, culture, innovation, and community as part of the national semiquincentennial celebration.
Exhibition Information
America’s Metro System at the Great American State Fair
Where: National Mall near 4th and Madison Dr. NW
Nearest security entrance at 7th and Madison Dr. NW or 7th and Jefferson Dr. NW
Nearest Metro stations: Archives, L’Enfant Plaza (Exit A), and Smithsonian
Dates: June 25 – July 10, 2026
Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Sundays – Wednesdays
10 a.m. – 11 p.m. Thursdays – Saturdays
10 a.m. – midnight on July 4”