By Railroad Model Craftsman Staff

The National Model Railroad Association convention is being held this week online and is featuring more than 70 clinics, nearly 50 virtual layout tours, and a keynote address from actor and model railroader Michael Gross.

In January, the NMRA announced that for the second year in a row it would be canceling its in-person convention due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s convention was slated to be held in Santa Clara, Calif. However, many of the clinics and layouts that were scheduled for the show have been moved online via Zoom. Besides clinics and layout tours, there will be remote operating sessions, pre-recorded prototype tours and breakout rooms for live discussions. On Friday night, Gross — perhaps best known for his role in the 1980s sitcom “Family Ties” and an accomplished Santa Fe modeler — will speak about his experiences in the hobby. 

Convention events run from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Pacific Time daily and registration is $49. The clinics will also remain online for at least a month so that if you miss one you can go back and watch it at your convenience. For more information and to register, visit the convention website.