TACOMA… Just in time for the holidays, the Washington State History Museum will welcome model train enthusiasts from Dec. 21 through New Year’s Day to its 20th annual Model Train Festival.

“Each year, I’m amazed by the intricacy and detail of the model railroads on display during the festival, and it’s a wonderful experience to see both young and old alike fall in love with a fascinating hobby that has deep roots in history,” said Jennifer Kilmer, Director of the Washington State Historical Society. “This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of our partners, so I want to personally thank the Port of Tacoma and all the others for helping to make the Model Train Festival such a popular draw for twenty years.”

In addition to the dozens of model train displays – including the state’s largest permanent layout on the museum’s fifth floor – families are invited to skip the long lines at the mall and have their picture taken with Santa. He’ll be available Dec. 21 through Dec. 23 for photos in front of a train-themed backdrop from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. along with balloon artist Jami Kraus, a favorite of History Museum patrons, who will provide amazing balloon creations free to visitors.

Visitors can watch model trains wind through elaborate displays and scenes designed and assembled by model train enthusiasts across the state, inclung Boeing Employees Model Railroad Club, 4D PNR NTRAK, Kitsap Live Steamers, Pierce County Lionel Club, Mount Rainier N-Scale, among others. The Lego Guy will also provide thousands of Legos for kids to build train creations.

Exhibit hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). General admission is $12 for adults, $8 for seniors, $8 for students and military with valid ID, and children ages 5 and below are free, as are members of the Washington State Historical Society. Visitors presenting an EBT Card and identification will receive admission for $1 per person or $2 per family.