The event will kick off with awards for a rehabilitated railroad train car, 2016 Founders’ Day art and essay contest winners and for 2015 historic rehabilitation projects.

Afterward, party-goers will enjoy a wide range of attractions, including vintage train cars; a model railroad; the restored home of Salinas' first mayor, I.J. Harvey; market stalls and information booths; talks and stories by local historians and "old timers;" historic book sales, a tavern serving food and drinks; and entertainment from across the decades by students and community members representing the city's many cultures.

Members of the media are invited to preview the celebrations at a Media Day at the First Mayor's House (to the right of the train station) on Tuesday March 1 starting at 10:30 am.

Media Day will offer preliminary programs; photo and interview opportunities; a media packet; photographs; and tours of the train station, train museum and Mayor's House. Refreshments will be served.

Founders Day is organized by the First Mayor's House, the Native Sons of the Golden West, the Monterey County Historical Society, the Salinas Historical Resource Board and the City of Salinas.