Page 70 - Play Coastal Mississippi - Fall26 - Winter27

ATTRACTIONS
FULL STEAM ahead!
PUTTING THE HOLIDAYS ON TRACK
Story by Cherie Ward
When the sun goes down and the holiday lights come on,
TrainTastic takes on a little extra magic.
The sprawling Gulfport attraction already gives families plenty of
reasons to stop, from model trains and LEGO creations to hands-
on exhibits and an outdoor train ride. But during the holiday
season, the world’s largest model railroad museum trades its
everyday look for twinkling lights, holiday traditions, and a
calendar packed with seasonal events.
Holiday Lights and The Polar Experience, two of TrainTastic’s
signature celebrations, are returning for 2026, bringing families
back for a different kind of train adventure.
In recent years, Holiday Lights has transformed the museum grounds
with millions of lights, creating an illuminated backdrop for an
outdoor train ride and an evening of Holiday fun. Santa visits, holiday
crafts, sweet treats, hot chocolate, and festive activities have all
been part of the celebration, giving families a chance to slow down
during a season that rarely seems to do the same.
The Polar Experience adds another layer of holiday nostalgia,
pairing trains and Christmas traditions for a special seasonal
outing. The event returns this year as part of TrainTastic’s growing
lineup of signature events, along with Breakfast with Santa.
Even the museum’s youngest visitors get their own holiday adventure.
On December 8, the monthly Tykes & Trains program becomes Holiday
Express, offering stories, crafts, sensory play, and hands-on activities for
children ages 4 and younger and their caregivers.
This year, grown-ups can get in on the Holiday fun, too.
TrainTastic will host its inaugural Conductor’s Ball on December
12 from 6 to 9 p.m. The holiday fundraiser will feature dueling
> TrainTastic
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