Woodbridge's Barron Arts Center Model Train Show Now Open For Season

WOODBRIDGE, NJ — Monday was opening day for the annual holiday model train show at the Barron Arts Center (582 Rahway Avenue, Woodbridge, NJ).

Now in its 33rd year, the model train show is a beloved Christmastime tradition that returns to Woodbridge every holiday season. The outstanding collection of model trains, recognized for quality across the state, is curated by Colonia resident Michael Gelesky.

The model train show will be up from Nov. 27 - Dec. 29. The exhibit is closed Dec. 24 and 25. Exhibit hours are Mon – Fri 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 2-4 p.m.

It is also free admission, thanks to funding from Woodbridge Township and the state of New Jersey arts/culture funding for the Barron Arts Center.

What you will see is more than 300 feet of track winding through three towns: Main Street U.S.A. (with a moving playground), a small town in the snowy mountains and — in true Jersey fashion — a boardwalk town on the seaside. The boardwalk town has a Ferris Wheel and Tilt-A-Whirl, both of which move, surrounded by an operating monorail.

Eleven different trains will be used in the display, with four trains operating at all times. The layout will be a complete walk-around display viewed in the round. Display cases featuring several gauges from N-scale through G-scale will also be on view.

It is Gelesky's passion to put together the model train show. He and his wife, Donna-Marie, have two children, Stephanie and Justin, who help their dad build the train exhibit every December.

Gelesky said his love of model trains started at the age of 5, when he received his first train, a Lionel, from his parents. To this day, he keeps his childhood dream alive in the basement of his Colonia home, which has been transformed into a train station. He collects train memorabilia such as pictures of classic trains, old railroad stock certificates and a layout, to which he is continually adding.

What is even more amazing is admission to the train display is entirely free, thanks to funding from Woodbridge Township, the state of New Jersey and private donations. However, donations of any amount at the door are greatly appreciated. Also, the Barron Arts Center will be collecting non-perishable food items and supplies for The Woodbridge Animal Shelter at the door.

The model train exhibit is available to schools and groups. For more information or directions, please call (732) 634-0413.

The train show is sponsored by The Woodbridge Metro Chamber of Commerce, Columbia Bank at 604 Amboy Avenue, J.J. Elek Realty Co. and Middlesex Water Company.

All events at the Barron Arts Center are sponsored by The Woodbridge Township Cultural Arts Commission chaired by Dr. Dolores Capraro Gioffre, with the support of Mayor John McCormac. The director of the Barron Arts Center is Cynthia Knight.