One of my favorite holiday traditions is visiting The Trains at NorthPark presented by Bank of Texas and benefitting Ronald McDonald House Dallas. This year's display will feature cityscapes, including Dallas, replete with the Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge and Fair Park; New York with Times Square and Grand Central Terminal; Washington, D.C. with The White House; and San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Other highlights include New England’s fall foliage, the Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore and Route 66. Thomas the Train and his friends also draw families to the charming exhibit, which will honor Dallas Police with a special tribute this year. This year, you can make your mark - and support a great cause - by purchasing a personalized railroad car to be a part of the display. Railcars range in price from $175 for a standard railcar to $275 for the 2016 limited edition observation car, third in a series of limited edition passenger cars. Cabooses are available for $225, and engines for $325. Purchase by October 14 to be a part of the opening of the elaborate miniature toy trains exhibit on November 19.
In its 29th year, the intricate configuration of 1,600 feet of track set against American landmarks is the largest miniature toy trains exhibit in Texas. Since its debut, the Trains at NorthPark has raised more than $13 million for the thousands of families who have stayed at RMHD, a home-away-from-home for families of seriously ill or injured children. “This is a great holiday gift that not only benefits a great cause, but also comes with the novelty of seeing your child’s or business’ name emblazoned on a railcar with a personalized message in one of Dallas’ favorite holiday displays,” said Jill Cumnock, chief executive officer of RMHD. “The magic of The Trains at NorthPark is multiplied when you experience the charm of seeing your railcar on the tracks, and knowing you have made a difference for a family in crisis.”
The Trains at NorthPark will arrive at 10 a.m. on November 19, 2016 at its new home on Level 2 between Nordstrom and the AMC Theater, and will extend through Sunday, January 8, 2017. Those interested in purchasing a railcar, or supporting The Trains at NorthPark through sponsorship or volunteering can do so by visiting www.thetrainsatnorthpark.com or contacting Bailey Kafer at bkafer@rmhdallas.org.