Press release from 19.01.2026: It’s almost that time again!
FASZINATION MODELLBAHN from 6 to 8 March 2026 at the Maimarkthalle Mannheim
The wait will soon be over: from 6 to 8 March 2026, it will be time once again to raise the curtain on FASZINATION MODELLBAHN at the Maimarkthalle Mannheim! This eagerly awaited public exhibition is one of the highlights of the model railway scene and is sure to set the hearts of model railway fans racing. Whether major manufacturers, dedicated clubs or creative tinkerers – they will all be making Mannheim the centre of the model railway world this weekend.
The fair is all about model railways – authentic, detailed and lively. It’s a unique atmosphere where enthusiasm, expertise and a passion that spans generations come together. Model railway fans from all over Europe get together to check out the latest stuff, chat, be amazed and join in.
Participate. Marvel. Experience.
Miniature worlds that tell stories: throughout the exhibition, lovingly designed layouts, moving trains, flashing signals and fascinating details are waiting to be discovered. Children can immerse themselves in the world of model railways and create their own small dioramas to take home with them at the BDEF Junior College. Adults can experience technology first-hand, try out controls for themselves or deepen their knowledge in workshops.
Brand diversity and new product launches
In 2026, the industry’s leading players will once again be presenting their products in Mannheim – including Märklin with LGB and Trix, Modelleisenbahn GmbH with ROCO & Fleischmann, Viessmann with kibri and Vollmer, Herpa and many interesting small-series manufacturers. They will be showcasing their latest innovations, new models and digital features at spacious stands – often for the first time in front of an audience.
The trade fair is therefore not only a showcase for the industry, but also a place where manufacturers and their customers can meet – in person, directly and on equal terms.
Unique model railway layouts – from all over Europe
The centrepiece of the exhibition is the numerous layouts presented by model railway clubs from Germany, the Netherlands, France and Switzerland. From Z gauge to 2m gauge to rural idylls – the variety of themes and scales is overwhelming.
Many of the installations are interactive and invite visitors to get involved. Visitors can operate switches, start trains or set signals themselves, bringing the miniature world to life and making it tangible.
Gauge 0 – Railway treasures from nine decades
The model railway group ‘Lokomotive Oxaplatz’ led by Hagen von Ortloff presents an extraordinary 0 gauge layout with vehicles from nine decades – from Märklin railcars from the 1930s to the latest innovation, the ‘Glaskasten’ from KM1. The focus is on playing with diversity: in addition to electrically powered locomotives, there are also battery-powered and wind-up locomotives. Visitors can even generate their own electricity with a crank generator and move trains. Instead of a strict representation of different eras, a Lionel streamlined locomotive meets a GDR shooting car and a Shay crosses the forest. And, of course, the popular candy car will be back in 2026, tirelessly making its rounds.
Precision engineering live: stationary steam models in motion
A particular highlight are the working steam models, which demonstrate their capabilities on specially constructed presentation areas. Here, gears mesh precisely, pistons move in unison, and all with a reassuring sense of naturalness. Technical history that inspires – and an experience for all the senses.
Expand your knowledge – in the Model Railway Forum
The Model Railway Forum offers a varied programme of lectures on current topics in the scene – from digitisation and landscaping to vehicle technology. Practical, informative and directly from the experts. As an additional highlight, popular episodes of the television programme Eisenbahn-Romantik will be broadcast.
Thank you for your reports and announcements.
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