Red Caboose Concessions Offer Relief Amid Heatwave

Since opening in 2017, the McKenzie Splash Pad has become an oasis for local children. In the summer months, there’s no better place for kids to run around and play. But without nearby water fountains or vending machines, families had to bring their own drinks and snacks if they wanted to stay and play for a very long time.

As City Recorder Jennifer Waldrup sat watching her grandkids play at the Splash Pad, she realized it needed something new. While the kids played, she sat in the hot sun. She thought, “Well, it’d be great to be able to have something to drink.”

Waldrup’s gaze drifted over to the train caboose sitting adjacent to the miniature water park. It was empty and had just been repainted. She began picturing it as a concessions booth.

In 2023, the City of McKenzie moved a freezer from Hudgins Appliance Repair and a drink cooler from Coke into the old train caboose. Park Theatre employees began working at Red Caboose Concessions during the day.

The Red Caboose offers ice cream sandwiches, fudge bars and Dilly Bars at $1.25, popsicles at $0.75 and cold drinks at $2.50.

As the summer heat endures, Waldrup said she has had to refill the Red Caboose’s ice cream stock several times. One man even told her that he prefers to buy his ice cream at the Red Caboose rather than at McKenzie’s fast food establishments.

The Red Caboose is open from noon to 5 p.m. and only accepts cash payments. Profits go toward purchasing chemicals to upkeep the Splash Pad.