YORK, PA - The Eastern Division of the Train Collectors Association returns to York this month for its fall meet, with up to 12,000 people expected to fill the York Expo Center to browse an abundance of toy trains, accessories and more that make the show one of most anticipated events of the year for hobbyists.
The three-day meet runs October 20-22 and features nearly 200,000 square feet of exhibitor space across six buildings.
"The York meet has grown exponentially over the years, and the sheer size of this show always shocks people," said Mike Petronella, Meet Chairman. "If you can't find what you're looking for at a smaller show, you're bound to find it in York. There are older vintage trains that guests can buy for a few dollars, high-end models that sell for $35,000 and everything in between. This truly is no ordinary train show."
More than 2,100 tables will be set up, including exhibits from TCA members, dealers and manufacturers such as Atlas Model Railroad Company, Bachmann Trains, Lionel Trains and MTH Electric Trains.
Those who have never experienced the show are welcome to attend as guests.
Guests can register at the door for $22 to see the entire show. Spouses are $2 and children younger than 18 are free with adult guests. Single-width strollers are allowed. Individuals may also join the TCA on-site.
This month is the perfect time for a sneak peek into what Eastern TCA calls the "World's Greatest Train Meet." Guests at this month's show will be able to visit every building to get the full experience.
"We encourage everyone - whether they're a long-time hobbyist or someone looking to buy their first train - to visit the York Expo Center for this event," said Anne Druck, President of the York County Convention & Visitors Bureau. "These train shows are among the biggest conventions that we attract to York County each year, but they're still among the best-kept secrets in our backyard."
With so many people traveling from across the country and even the world to take in the meet, the York County CVB expects the event will generate about $8 million in economic benefits for the local economy.
For more information about the York Train Meet and the Eastern Division of the TCA, 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.
###