The Green Train
It's kind of like the Peace Train, but more environmentally friendly.
In order to promote greener living, the Green Train tour kicks off in April 2010 and will embark on a six-week cross country journey that will include 28 states, 8 major performances, and dozens of smaller "whistle stop" acoustic sets along its route from Portland, Oregon to Washington D.C.
Although the sites for the performances are tentatively set, details on who will perform with the Green Train are to be released closer to the beginning of the ride. Many world famous musicians have shown support for the tour, including folk singer and activist Willie Nelson, who has also been heavily involved in the marketing and erection of biodiesel fuel plants that will power the actual train. Top performing artists who have also shown a strong interest include actress and crooner Cher, the Indigo Girls, Dave Matthews Band, Vince Gill, Collective Soul, Kris Kristofferson, and Jewel.
Proprietor of the operation Bob Wolf decided to use the green train as the means for spreading to the message due to the embedded history of the green machine in the United States as a symbol of unity. He also chose the green train to mimic the whistle stop mechanics of early politicians as a mean to reach greater numbers of the local population with a message.
The green train itself will run on biodiesel fuel and use solar energy to replenish in between stops. It will be comprised of at least 20 cars including two flatbed acoustical stages where the "whistle stop" performances will be held. The Green Train will also carry other celebrities, athletes, scientists, actors, activists, environmentalists, and media, who will speak in between the performances publically or via satellite discussing and educating viewers on tips and benefits for greener living.
Sites for the major performances include Portland, Denver, Los Angeles, New Orleans, Charlotte, New York, and Washington D.C., while the smaller performances are scheduled in Sacramento, Atlanta, Boston, and Memphis.
The Green Train tour is also scheduled to revive in Europe in 2010 as well as run simultaneous tours across each continent in 2011.