Thomas is upset that James gets the task of delivering fireworks instead of him. Along the way to Knapford, James breaks down. Thomas is sent to help James, but the clock is ticking, and the display looks like it'll be called off.

There is to be a cleanliness competition, and Gordon, Emily and James believe they'll win. Thomas and Percy want to win too, but Thomas slowly loses confidence as the other engines arrive at the washdown before him.