Final report from 11.03.2026: FASZINATION MODELLBAHN 2026 – Meeting place of the model railroad scene!
FASZINATION MODELLBAHN 2026 in Mannheim once again proved that it is a highlight of the model railroad scene. From March 6 to 8, 2026, around 12,000 model railway enthusiasts and families visited the Maimarkthalle to discover the diverse world of miniature railroads. With a unique blend of innovation, tradition and creativity, the fair was an unforgettable experience for young and old alike.
Novelties and impressive model railroad layouts
As an international trade fair for model railroads and accessories, FASZINATION MODELLBAHN presented the latest developments for 2026. Visitors were able to enjoy a variety of new models, technologies, electronics, software and equipment – for every gauge and era, both analog and digital. Particularly impressive were the 22 model railroad displays from clubs and associations from Germany, France, the Netherlands and Switzerland. Each layout was a masterpiece with loving details that invited visitors to marvel and discover.
Diversity of exhibitors at Faszination Modellbahn 2026
With over 120 exhibitors as well as six private layouts and many other clubs and associations such as the BDEF, MOBA, IG Mikromodellbau and stationary Steam modeling, the fair offered a wide range of products: from classic tinplate models to high-tech solutions. Each model was a masterpiece and bore the unique signature of its builder. Visitors of all ages were able to discover little stories and nice details everywhere, inviting them to marvel, ask questions and even try things out.
Highlights of the trade fair
“Faszination Modellbahn 2026 once again showed how diverse the model railroad scene is. Numerous exhibitors presented their latest models, innovations and accessories. The impressive layouts of the clubs and private builders as well as the direct exchange with visitors make the trade fair a special meeting place for model railway fans every year. The hands-on activities and the informative model train forum were also very well received by visitors once again,” summarizes Sascha Bürkel, Project Manager of Messe Sinsheim.
Industry leader Märklin presented numerous new products at this year’s FASZINATION MODELLBAHN. Visitors were able to experience models from various gauges – including LGB, H0, Z and N – directly on site.
Roco/Fleischmann was also represented at the trade fair in Mannheim for the second time and used the event to present current highlights and initial development statuses of the year’s new products. The first samples of the Czech T 466 locomotive, a new freight wagon and N-gauge models, including a class 120 and the first models of the Railjet 2, were on display.
Viessmann Modelltechnik also presented various products and innovations. Particular emphasis was placed on the positive atmosphere at the trade fair and the direct exchange with visitors. The company presented its current solutions and announced that it would be represented at the trade fair again in the future with new developments, including K-Motion.
Practical model railroad forum inspires visitors
The model railroad forum at Faszination MODELLBAHN Mannheim provided a valuable platform for the exchange of knowledge. Experts presented the latest technology trends and innovations from Märklin, Viessmann & Co. in practical presentations. Film contributions from “Railway Romance” complemented the program and fascinated the visitors. Numerous model train fans took the opportunity to expand their knowledge and exchange ideas with experts.
Another special item on the program was the autograph session with Hagen von Ortloff, the initiator of the well-known TV series “Eisenbahn-Romantik”. Numerous visitors were delighted to meet the railroad expert in person and talk to him.
Six private installations were a highlight of the trade fair
A highlight this year was once again the unique private model railroad layouts at the MIBA Private Layout Competition!
Six private model railroad teams competed with their imaginatively created railroad layouts. They are true artists and it is a great pleasure for visitors to discover the many refinements of the layouts on display and to chat with the proud layout owners about the details.
This year, MIBA and Messe Sinsheim GmbH congratulate Bernd and Ilona Rüger with their private Steinberg facility on winning the prize for 1st winner of this year’s MIBA Private Plant Competition. The 2nd place went to Leo Bettonviel with “Morenci Mining District” and 3rd place to Ansgar Meyring with “Ümmeling”.
We would also like to thank the other participants Jürgen Heinritz, Hanns Hirblinger and Jörg Baumann.
Filigree steam models in action
The builders of the stationary steam models combine craftsmanship with great creativity. Gear wheels, linkages and the finest mechanical components interlock precisely and reliably set the models in motion. The exhibitors presented numerous impressive constructions on a platform around seventy meters long – detailed, precision-engineered steam models that never ceased to amaze technology enthusiasts.
Hands-on activities and events for the whole family
In addition to the numerous exhibitions, a wide range of hands-on activities created a lively atmosphere at FASZINATION MODELLBAHN. Presentations, play areas for children and families as well as craft activities by exhibitors invited visitors to actively experience the hobby of model railroading. The positive mood was also reflected in the feedback on the trade fair’s social media channels: “I enjoyed the trade fair again. We saw some great ideas and had a good chat with some of the layout exhibitors.” Thank you very much for this feedback!
Outlook for upcoming events
The anticipation is great: The next FASZINATION MODELLBAHN will once again take place in the Maimarkthalle Mannheim from March 12 to 14, 2027.
Info at www.faszination-modellbahn.com
In addition, the FASZINATION MODELLBAU invites all model building fans to Friedrichshafen from October 30 to November 1, 2026 with the Real Steam Hall Meeting and this year again with the International Model Railway Exhibition.
Info at www.faszination-modellbau.de
You can find fascinating trade fair photos for use free of charge for reporting on Faszination Modellbahn at: www.faszination-modellbahn.com/presse.
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Contact: Messe Sinsheim GmbH
Phone: +49 7025 9206-100