Trains!
It's the time of year again that train lovers big and small celebrate with all kinds of special events. The enthusiasm many kids have for trains can be a wonderful opening to learn all kinds of things about history, mechanical science, and even music (our library systems have dozens of compilations of traditional songs about trains in many genres). I've done my best to compile a list of upcoming events just for train lovers.
Every weekend in November, the Columbia Gorge Model Railroad Club at 2505 N. Vancouver Ave., Pdx, will once again be opening their doors from 10AM- 5PM to show off their truly spectacular layout! Adults are $6, kids 3-11 are $2, and special VIP behind-the-scenes tours are available for $10 by advanced reservation. If you like model railroads, you will love this one.
The Mount Hood Model Engineers will be having an open house on Saturday, November 6, and Saturday, November 13, 12-5PM at 5500 SE Belmont St., Pdx. They do not charge admission but request a donation. This is a truly special display!
The Aloha and Western Oregon Lines will be hosting an open house Saturday November 13 and Sunday November 14, from 10AM-4PM, at 12755 SW Beaverdam Road, Beaverton, OR.
The Mt. Hood Railroad will begin their special "Polar Express" trains November 19 through December 23 for some special Christmas magic.
Beginning the final Sunday in November, the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad in Yacolt, WA will start their awesome "Christmas Tree Trains." The trains travel through breathtaking scenery and a spooky tunnel, to arrive at a station where Santa waits with gifts for every child. There you can select a Christmas tree, which will be carefully tagged and brought back in a special train car, sip hot cider and hot chocolate, and nibble on Christmas cookies. They make this really special. Tree purchases are optional. Definitely worth the drive.
The Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation will be running the "Holiday Express" down at Oaks Park December 3-12, running some amazing, historic locomotives. This annual event is beloved by many.
The Staver Locomotive Holiday "steam-up" is planned for Friday, December 3, 5:30-8PM. They are located at 2537 NW 29th Ave, Pdx, in a large industrial building, and operate model "live steamers" that mimic real steam locomotives. "Admission is free, however, Staver Locomotive invites you to make a donation (check, cash, or gift cards) that will support clients of Friendly House’s Services for Seniors and Homeless Famillies. Help us help the most vulnerable in our community this season. Train lovers young and old will be delighted by the model steam engine trains, decorated for the holidays, charging up and down the custom-built tracks, and over bridges and trestles. Live music, from Boy & Bean (a popular local trio that brings fresh sounds to the music of the 20s, 30s and 40s). A local artist collective will offer train inspired pieces for sale, with proceeds benefitting Friendly House. Warm beverages and snacks, plus an art activity for children." This event is not to be missed!
The Staver Locomotive Holiday "steam-up" is planned for Friday, December 3, 5:30-8PM. They are located at 2537 NW 29th Ave, Pdx, in a large industrial building, and operate model "live steamers" that mimic real steam locomotives. "Admission is free, however, Staver Locomotive invites you to make a donation (check, cash, or gift cards) that will support clients of Friendly House’s Services for Seniors and Homeless Famillies. Help us help the most vulnerable in our community this season. Train lovers young and old will be delighted by the model steam engine trains, decorated for the holidays, charging up and down the custom-built tracks, and over bridges and trestles. Live music, from Boy & Bean (a popular local trio that brings fresh sounds to the music of the 20s, 30s and 40s). A local artist collective will offer train inspired pieces for sale, with proceeds benefitting Friendly House. Warm beverages and snacks, plus an art activity for children." This event is not to be missed!
The Portland Area N-Track Model Railroad Club will be hosting an open house on the first three Sundays in December, the 6th, 12th, and 19th, from 1PM-5PM at their clubhouse at Alpenrose Dairy, 6149 SW Shattuck Rd., Portland, OR. We've found their club members to be very friendly and enthusiastic about showing off their layout to kids.
The Wilamette Shore Trolley, which has traditionally run special excursions just to see the lovely Christmas Ships to best advantage, is not running until further notice due to mechanical problems. I really hope they can get those resolved in time!
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