The Lionel Collectors Club of America (LCCA) celebrates its anniversary each year in late July. The club holds its annual business meeting during the convention week when new officers are installed. But for most members who attend, it is a time to reconnect with old friends, to enjoy the camaraderie of the train hobby, and to introduce ourselves to new friends.
LCCA conventions are held in various cities around the country (see the entire list of convention sites) with a goal of visiting cities in all areas of the country. Site Cities and Hotels are chosen to host the convention usually 2-3 years in advance of the event. Local County Visitors Bureaus (CVB’s) are asked to assist in assuring our tours and events are among the best venues in the area. Motor coaches transport us to and from various tour venues. The President starts the week with a complementary Welcome party. The club sponsors convention related events during the week with the focus on two exceptional dinners, a Get Aquatinted Party (GAP) and a Gala Banquet to end the convention where every attendee goes home with a great gift. Two ‘must do’ activities are the Lionel Seminar where the leadership of Lionel present product reveals and industry updates and of course the 2-day Trading Hall where members buy and sell their trains.
The LCCA conventions are family friendly events, with members bringing spouses, kids and even grandchildren all attendees with the member’s registration. Members may come for a day, a specific event or as most do stay for the convention week. To learn more about the details of a typical LCCA convention check out The Anatomy of an LCCA Convention.
Summary – LCCA conventions are typically family friendly events designed to celebrate the shared friendships and interest, provide education, encourage creativity, and offer new and exciting tour and venue opportunities, all while offering plenty of fun and entertainment for hobbyists of all levels.
