Free Miniature Train Rides Return To OC With Holiday Toy Drive

COSTA MESA, CA — All aboard! Free miniature train rides are returning to Goathill Junction in Costa Mesa, with visitors encouraged to spread some holiday cheer by donating toys for children in need.

The Orange County Model Engineers will operate their miniature trains from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21 and Sunday, Nov. 22 at Fairview Park.

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No tickets or reservations are required, and passengers must be at least 31 inches tall to ride.

The organization is also supporting the Orange County Fire Chiefs' Holiday Toy Drive, collecting new, unwrapped toys for local children in partnership with Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue. Donation boxes will be available at the station.

"Annually we give about 40,000+ free rides and have given over 750,000 rides since 1989," Orange County Model Engineers President Josh Guesman told Patch.

Each ride is approximately 12 to 15 minutes, taking passengers along a 1.25-mile loop through Fairview Park, where they can enjoy views of the area's plants and wildlife without disturbing the natural habitat.

The organization typically operates five to seven trains at a time, each accommodating approximately 20 to 25 passengers. During its busy fall and holiday season, the club welcomes about 4,000 visitors each weekend.

"I'd encourage everyone to bring their patience as they come in November and December. November is pretty straight forward," Guesman said. "In December, Santa Visits and we run our trains from Costa Mesa to the North Pole and back. Still all free. But a lot of people show up,"

The volunteer-run organization has more than 415 members, with approximately 40 volunteers helping operate the trains, station and gift shop during public ride days.

Those interested in joining the Orange County Model Engineers can find membership information on the organization's website.

Annual memberships start at $45, and no experience is necessary.