See the Beaches Train Club Holiday Express at Beaches Branch Library

If you haven’t gotten a chance to visit the Beaches Branch Library over the holiday break, be sure to stop in by January 5th, 2026 and catch the Beaches Train Club’s Holiday Express trains before they are gone!

The trains are set up and are free to view anytime during their operating schedule.

See the schedule below for days and times:

Holiday Express Trains

The Holiday Express trains will be displayed and running Dec. 19 – Jan. 5!

“The Beaches Train Club began running Christmas Trains at the Beaches Branch Library in 2019. Each year our layout has expanded to include more and diverse trains with carnival rides.

Big thank you to the yearly support of the Friends of the Beaches Branch Library (FOBBL) and 0 scale train donations from our community.”

– Bob Burch, Chief Engineer M.O.W.

About the Beaches Train Club

The Beaches Train Club—previously known as The Beachnuts—brings O scale model railroading to life throughout Jacksonville’s beach communities and nearby areas.

The group works closely with the Beaches Museum and the Friends of the Beaches Branch Library, where their displays and activities often draw curious visitors of all ages.

Beaches Train Club members gather on the third Tuesday of every month to share their passion for model trains and rail history.

What Are O Scale Trains?

O scale trains are one of the most recognizable and widely collected sizes in the model railroading world. The term “O scale” describes both the proportions of the trains and the track they run on, showing how closely the models replicate real-life locomotives and railcars.

In the United States, O scale models are typically built to a 1:48 ratio, meaning one inch on the model equals four feet on a full-sized train. In parts of the UK and Europe, the scale is slightly larger, commonly around 1:43.5. O scale track usually measures about 1.25 inches (31.75 mm) between the rails.

A Brief History of O Scale

O scale trains date back to the early 1900s and quickly became a favorite among model railroad enthusiasts. Well-known manufacturers such as Lionel and Märklin helped popularize the scale, setting standards that are still followed today.

Why Hobbyists Love O Scale

One of the biggest draws of O scale trains is their size. Larger than HO or N scale models, they offer impressive visual presence and room for fine details.

Their sturdy construction makes them well-suited for public displays and hands-on viewing, while the level of craftsmanship appeals to collectors who appreciate realism and mechanical detail.

Catch It Before It’s Gone!

Be sure to stop by the Beaches Branch Library to see this charming train display in person before it makes its seasonal journey back to the North Pole.