Our reinvigorated CanalFest/RailFest, which begins today, will offer more than just a good time for those who attend.

Billed as “A Transportation Celebration,” it will have three days of family-oriented entertainment at no cost or low cost, fireworks and a combination of craft and food booths and children’s activities, beginning at 5 p.m. today.

Some of the activities are being held to benefit worthy causes.

Two of Saturday’s events will raise funds for Allegany County Special Olympics. The Mountain Maryland Marathon will begin a 7-kilometer run at 6:55 a.m. The Train Pull starts at 9 a.m. at the Western Maryland Railway Station in Cumberland.

The first Western Maryland Kidney Ride for bicyclists will start at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, and a family ride will begin at 10 a.m.

Musical entertainment on the Canal Place Festival Grounds will feature, among others, Hillbilly Gypsies and Cornmeal on Friday night; Erik Hanson, Bill Emerson & The Sweet Dixie Band and The Bridge on Saturday; and Vinegar Creek Constituency and Missy Raines & The New Hip on Sunday.

At Cumberland Towne Centre, Herb and Hanson will appear at 2:30 p.m. and Halftime String Band will perform at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Crescent Lawn entertainment will be free for spectators who have portable chairs and blankets.