Model trains galore (Feb. 7 and 8)

Model trains can be an addictive hobby, as I learned during my days in Germany; our landlord had an entire room of his basement dedicated to his setup, and I have to admit it was an impressive display of mechanics and scenery. Until recently, though, I knew very little about the industry surrounding the hobby. It’s also pretty impressive, particularly the size of the shows that either tour the country or reappear at the same venue month after month. This coming weekend (Feb. 7 and 8), one of the national touring shows, the Great Train Expo, comes to St. Charles. It’s a very hands-on experience for kids (those under 12 get in free), with models they can operate as well as a riding train and free workshops, and if they’re looking to upgrade, they can bring in their old set to sell to one of the 50 dealers on the spot, freeing up cash for the new one.

Some 350 vendors will be at the St. Charles Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days, along with reps from local hobby clubs like the Gateway Garden Railroad Club and Mississippi Valley N Scalers. Admission is $7 for those 12 and over; parking is free.

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