INTERMODELLBAU 2026: What’s new?

German Armed Forces bring helicopter, Tabletop expands the thematic spectrum

From 16 to 19 April, the Dortmund exhibition halls will once again transform into a fascinating miniature world. INTERMODELLBAU brings together all facets of model building and model sports across six exhibition halls – from railway modeling and aircraft and ship modeling to car and RC model building. This year, visitors can once again look forward to exciting new themes and exhibitors.

Dortmund, 3 March 2026 – A brief overview of some of the trade fair highlights:

Tabletop: miniatures, strategy and creativity
With the addition of tabletop gaming, INTERMODELLBAU 2026 is expanding its portfolio to include a popular facet of the hobby. In Hall 7, the association Die Würfelgötter e.V., one of Germany’s largest tabletop clubs, together with Freebooter Miniatures, JB Spielwaren and De Tinnen Roos, will demonstrate the diversity of the miniature and gaming systems world. From sci-fi and fantasy to historical settings, they present detailed gaming tables with designed backdrops and matching miniatures. Visitors who don’t just want to watch can get involved themselves – building and painting miniatures and gaining their first gaming experience. This new theme appeals not only to experienced tabletop fans but also to curious newcomers looking to discover a creative hobby and experience model building from a different perspective.

Full-scale technology: German Armed Forces exhibiting
Whether at a scale of 1:87 or life-size – fascination with technology unites many model builders. A returning exhibitor addresses exactly this passion: In Hall 3, the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) will present themselves with an exhibition stand. In addition to information on training and career opportunities, youth officers will be available for discussions about technology and security policy. A particular highlight: a Bell UH-1D helicopter and the original cockpit of a Tornado fighter aircraft will be on display – both in full size. Visitors will even be able to take a seat inside the cockpit and experience the technology up close. A security policy quiz with attractive prizes will round off the presentation.

Cult object in large and small
For many model builders, originals serve as inspiration and reference. A special highlight will therefore be presented by PS.SPEICHER from Einbeck. Describing itself as Europe’s largest classic car and adventure museum, it will make its debut at INTERMODELLBAU with the legendary BMW Isetta – better known as the “bubble car” (“Knutschkugel”). The charming vehicle will be on display both in its original form and as a model, delighting not only classic car enthusiasts but also model builders who faithfully recreate automotive icons in miniature.

New competition at the fair
In Hall 3, within the large flight area of the German Model Flying Association (DMFV), visitors won’t just be able to admire the flight shows this year – participation is encouraged. The Skycart Masters will celebrate their premiere at INTERMODELLBAU 2026. Together with its youth organization JUMP!, the association has developed its own fun-flight model – the “Skycart.” It is easy to control, versatile and deliberately designed to be low-threshold. The aim is to provide young people and beginners in particular with easy access to model flying. More information is available in advance upon request at info@dmfv.aero or directly at the DMFV stand. Competition registrations should also be directed to the DMFV.

Fairground atmosphere in miniature
Those who love colorful, nostalgic and detail-rich displays will find what they are looking for in Hall 8: fairground model building will have an expanded dedicated area in 2026. Several exhibitors – including Christoph’s Modellkirmes, Andreas Dumler Kirmesmodellbau, IG Kirmesmodelle, Werner Nowotny with his brick-built fairground, and Ralphs Showmodels – will present their vibrant miniature fairground worlds. From Ferris wheels to roller coasters, a fascinating fairground landscape will emerge that captivates countless visitors every year. Model builders will find suitable accessories for their own projects at Stephan’s Kirmeswelt and Kirmesmodelle Raue.

Additional display layouts confirmed
In addition to the new themes, INTERMODELLBAU 2026 will once again set impressive highlights with its classic display layouts – many of which are celebrating their German premieres. The detailed replica of Berlin’s Anhalter Bahnhof, built by master goldsmith Gebhard Reitz, will be presented publicly for the first time. Julian Parusel is bringing it to Dortmund. Created between 1995 and 2020, the layout was previously privately owned in Vienna and has only recently returned to Germany. All buildings were crafted in elaborate handwork, and the station’s roof is made entirely of brass. Numerous intricate components – from streetlamps to the statues on the portico – testify to exceptional craftsmanship.

One of the modules of the Möhringen Model Building Group’s showcase layout will also be shown in Germany for the first time. The H0 layout “Dampflok1970” depicts a fictional southern German steam locomotive depot with around 20 steam and diesel locomotives, a 23-meter turntable, coaling facility and many additional details. The depot combines buildings inspired by various real-life prototypes.

Another impressive layout is traveling from Denmark: the association Spor 1 Danmark will present a Gauge 1 layout measuring an impressive 20 by 7 meters, featuring over 200 meters of track, more than 40 switches and 30 signals. Inspired by the railway and harbor area of Heiligenhafen in the 1960s, it combines railway romance with industrial atmosphere – including a fully functional gantry crane of the type that might have stood in Hamburg’s port during the 1960s.Buy tickets online in advance
Whether a long-time enthusiast, curious beginner or a family seeking a special experience: the fair offers inspiration, exchange and fascination for all generations. Tickets are already available online – at a small price advantage compared to purchasing on site.