Ten dollars doesn’t buy you much these days, but it will get you into one of the most rewarding exhibitions you will ever see. Trainfest 2008 turned out avid model railroaders from every age group, and every size model train layout. The blogging is still going on! If you’ve never heard of Trainfest, let me “clue you in!” There’s quite a bit to know for next year.

So Many Model Train Layouts

Every model train layout intricately portrays almost every scene you can think of. This wonderland of imagination takes you back in time to drive in theaters and logging displays, completely detailing every scene. You can watch a model train set rumble through the mountains and mining communities, or turn another direction and watch a complete cityscape or rural pumpkin grove, displayed with little-bitty people!

Trainfest has been held every year since 1971 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This weekend event started out in a little VFW hall, and has grown to accommodate upwards of 20,000 people at the Wisconsin Exposition Center. This past November 8 & 9 was the 37th Annual Trainfest Exhibition, featuring every imaginable model train scale and model train layout on display for the whole family. That’s right, the whole family can afford to go when 14 and under get in free with an adult!

All Train Scales Represented

Besides the magical, miniature life brought to animation in everything from Z to G scale, it’s fascinating to me how modelers of all ages demonstrate the “crafting” side to the displays. They were on hand to show you how to make trees, watering holes, Styrofoam scenery, and so much more.

You can purchase a model train set right there, when your inspiration grabs you! Every vendor having anything to do with model train scale turns out for this event. All the realistic audio equipment is there, layout kits, building designs; all the latest technology. Over 50 hobby dealers, hobby clubs, and organizations, and over 60 manufacturers are available for presentations and information. Yeah, you don’t want to miss this next year.

It doesn’t matter what stage of the game you’re in. If you are just becoming enamored with this educational hobby, or if you are a long time enthusiast out to build a better mousetrap, take the family for an awe-inspiring journey into fantasyland and don’t miss Trainfest 2009!