FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Andrew Staub
Communications Specialist
York County Convention & Visitors Bureau
717-852-9675, ext. 103 or astaub@yorkpa.org

Louise Heine
Destination Marketing Director
York County Convention & Visitors Bureau
717-852-9675, ext. 109 or louise@yorkpa.org 

YORK, PA - For the first time ever, the Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association is opening portions of the World's Greatest Train Meet to the general public, offering a new generation of hobbyists the opportunity to experience the joy and fun that comes with model railroading.

The three-day show at the York Expo Center starts with a members-only day on Thursday, April 27. The doors open to the public from Friday, April 28, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 29, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets for the public are $14 per family for a single-day or $20 per family to attend both days. Dealer halls will be open to the public, while TCA members will have access to all buildings.

"This is our way to share the joy of ‘playing with trains' with future generations," said John Zobel, President of the Eastern Division of the TCA.  "The dealer halls are the perfect place to find your first model train and all the accessories you need to get started in this truly All-American hobby. We invite anyone coming for the first time to join the TCA on the spot so they can experience the entire show, as well as a lifetime of fun."

While the public admission includes the dealer halls, first-time attendees are welcome to join the organization to gain full access to the show. Visitors may also register as a guest for one-time only to experience the entire show. For registration assistance, please call the Eastern Division TCA Registration Help Desk at 1-814-928-0196.

The entire show features more than 200,000 square feet of exhibitor space spread across six buildings.

One of two Eastern Division TCA shows held in York each year, the April meet is among the most anticipated model railroad gatherings of the year, drawing hobbyists from around the country. The York County CVB estimates that the spring meet will draw about 10,500 visitors and bring upward of $6.1 million in economic benefits to the community as attendees stay in area hotels and patronize local restaurants and attractions.

The York County Convention & Visitors Bureau invites everyone to experience this amazing show and encourages visitors to explore the other railroad-related attractions in York County.

"Twice a year York becomes a model railroading destination thanks to this incredible show, and attractions like Steam Into History, the Stewartstown Railroad and the Ma & Pa Railroad continue to make York County a natural fit," said Anne Druck, President of the York County CVB. "After seeing the new and vintage toy trains at the York Expo Center, visitors can enjoy a peaceful springtime train ride through the picturesque countryside. It's a railroading getaway to remember." 

For more information about the Eastern Division TCA, please visit www.EasternTCA.com.

The York County Convention & Visitors Bureau's Mission is to maximize tourism expenditures and their economic impact in York County, PA, through comprehensive tourism sales and marketing programs. The York County CVB's Vision is for a York County where tourism is recognized for the value of its economic impact and its role in raising the profile of York County as a sought-after destination. For more information on the York County Convention & Visitors Bureau, call 1-888-858-9675 or visit www.yorkpa.org.

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