Train Day pulling in to Los Altos History Museum on Aug. 30

Los Altos History Museum will host its 15th annual Train Day on Sunday, Aug. 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring steam and electric model trains, robotics activities, and family-friendly events. Admission is $10, free for museum members and children 12 and under. The event highlights the role of trains in Los Altos' founding, with the Southern Pacific Railroad's surplus land sale leading to the town's development.

Getting your Trinity Audio //trinityaudio.ai player ready... Train Day Los Altos History Museum will host its 15th annual Train Day on Sunday, Aug. 30, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Train enthusiasts of all ages are invited to explore steam and electric model trains, meet local railroad hobbyists, try hands-on robotics activities and take part in family-friendly activities throughout the day. Model train displays will be presented by the BAGRS Live Steam Group, Diablo Pacific Short Line and Joan Hodnett and Chris Cross of the Golden State Toy Train Operating Society, showcasing a variety of operating layouts and railroading techniques. Visitors can also watch classic train films in the museum’s Geschke Gallery, enjoy robotics demonstrations by Menlo Park Narleotters and get an up-close look at a train-themed float featured in the Festival of Lights Parade. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase from The Bay’s Lemonade. Trains played a pivotal role in the founding of Los Altos. When the Southern Pacific Railroad acquired the right-of-way for its new western route through the Santa Clara Valley, it purchased more land than was needed for the tracks. The surplus property was sold to a developer, who built the homes that became the foundation of the town of Los Altos. Passenger rail service ended in 1964, and the former rail corridor later became Foothill Expressway. Admission to Train Day is $10; it’s free for museum members and children ages 12 and under. Tickets are available at the gate. For more information, visit losaltoshistory.org/TrainDay2026. http://losaltoshistory.org/TrainDay2026 Pulling the strings The Bob Baker Marionette Theater is bringing its variety show to the Mountain View Public Library, 585 Franklin St., on Aug. 31 at 4 p.m. The show features 12 to 25 puppets from the theater’s collection. After the show, there will be a 15-minute question-and-answer session. Registration is recommended to bit.ly/466rxam http://bit.ly/466rxam , but walk-ins are also welcome.