Every year a team of volunteer engineers sets up an incredible toy train display at the Sheldon Museum in Middlebury just in time for the holidays. This year’s display opens Thanksgiving weekend: Friday and Saturday, November 25 & 26, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Here’s a description from the museum:
The elaborate Lionel train layout at the Henry Sheldon Museum in Middlebury, Vermont is an annual tradition, delighting all ages. The assemblage stands three levels high, with tracks running Lionel O gauge trains, Lionel 027 gauge trains, and an upper track running HO trains. The layout is complete with a backdrop of the Green Mountains painted by local artist Gayl Braisted, and in 2018, an operating gondola ski lift, skiers, snowboarders, and rock climbers were added.
New in 2020 — an entire remake of the mountain including gondola ski lift, skiers, rock climbers, and tunnels through the mountain to show off the HO train. Popular Gabe the Lamplighter will be back this year. Push the button and watch Gabe climb the tower and turn on the floodlights! Come this year to see what’s new!
Here’s the schedule so far:
The Museum and Museum Store will be open with free admission during the Midd Night Strolls, Thursdays, Dec. 1, 8 & 15 until 8 p.m., and the trains will be running 5-8 p.m.
Holiday Open House, free admission: Saturday, December 3, 10 am – 4 pm
Trains will run Dec. 6, 2022 – January 7, 2023, Tuesdays-Saturdays, 1-3:30 pm with Museum admission. Regular Museum admission: Adult $10; Senior $5; 18 & under, Free.
