All Aboard for the Annual Model Train Festival!

Mark your calendar for the Annual Model Train Festival! This wintertime tradition is a delight for all ages and runs from Friday, December 20, 2024 through Wednesday, January 1, 2025 (closed December 24 and 25). 

The Model Train Festival brings railroad clubs from around Puget Sound to share their incredible, room-sized layouts in the History Museum! Every floor of the museum comes alive with trains, from the Kitsap Live Steamers 7.5-inch gauge railroad engines to the Mount Rainier N-Scale layout featuring miniature scenery of Western Washington and so many more.

Plus, the largest permanent model train layout in Washington is always on display at the museum on the fifth floor, operated by Puget Sound Model Railroad Engineers. Train operators will be on hand for questions and conversations.

Enjoy trains on the big screen in our auditorium, where I Love Toy Trains and I Love Big Trains, from filmmaker Tom McComas will screen throughout the festival. The auditorium lobby will serve as a family room with toy trains, Legos, and more.

Don’t miss your chance to get some fun photos with our esteemed mascot, Seymour History the Olympic Marmot! Seymour will be making several appearances this holiday season: (11am-noon & 2-3pm on Dec 20 & Dec 27)

LOCATION: The Washington State History Museum is located at 1911 Pacific Avenue in Tacoma (888-238-4373; www.washingtonhistory.org). 

TICKETS: Purchase tickets online or at the museum. (Note: Outside discounts and library passes are not valid during Model Train Festival)

For more information, visit www.modeltrainfestival.org