For nearly half a century, the Huntsville Plastic Modelers Society (HPMS) has hosted one of the Southeast's premier scale modeling events, bringing together builders, collectors, vendors, and hobby enthusiasts from across Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and beyond.
On Saturday, August 22, 2026, the tradition continues with the 49th Annual HPMS Model Show, held at the Huntsville Jaycees Building in Huntsville, Alabama.
Known for its strong competition, outstanding vendor support, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to the modeling community, the HPMS Model Show has become a must-attend event on the Southern modeling calendar.
At AFV Hobby Hub, we're proud to support organizations and events like HPMS that help grow the hobby, encourage new builders, and provide opportunities for modelers to share their passion with others.
Event Information
49th Annual HPMS Model Show
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026
Venue: Huntsville Jaycees Building
Address:
2180 Airport Road
Huntsville, AL 35801
Hosted By:
Huntsville Plastic Modelers Society (HPMS)
Celebrating 60 Years of Star Trek
One of the major highlights of this year's show is the special category:
"To Boldly Go… Celebrating 60 Years of Star Trek!"
This theme recognizes six decades of one of the most influential science fiction franchises in history and encourages modelers to showcase their creativity through a wide variety of subjects.
Eligible entries may include:
- Starships
- Science-fiction vehicles
- Character figures
- Spacecraft
- Dioramas
- Scratchbuilt creations
- Custom Star Trek-themed projects
The category is expected to attract both traditional sci-fi modelers and longtime Star Trek fans while adding another exciting dimension to an already diverse contest.
Something for Every Modeler
While the special Star Trek category promises to draw plenty of attention, the HPMS Model Show continues to feature competition across all major modeling disciplines.
Contest categories include:
- Armor and military vehicles
- Aircraft
- Ships and maritime subjects
- Automotive subjects
- Science fiction and fantasy
- Figures and miniatures
- Dioramas
For readers of AFVHobbyHub.com, the armor categories are always worth exploring. Expect to see everything from World War II tanks and assault guns to Cold War armor, modern AFVs, military support vehicles, and expertly crafted battlefield dioramas.
The contest tables consistently showcase advanced weathering techniques, realistic finishing, historical accuracy, and innovative modeling approaches that provide inspiration for hobbyists of all skill levels.
A Preview of the 2027 IPMS Nationals
Another exciting feature of this year's show is a special preview of the 2027 IPMS Nationals, which will be hosted by HPMS in Huntsville.
Attendees will have an opportunity to learn more about the club's plans for one of the largest events in the hobby and get an early look at what visitors can expect when modelers from across the world gather in Huntsville for the prestigious national convention.
For many attendees, this preview alone will make the show particularly significant.
Event Schedule
Saturday, August 22, 2026
8:00 AM
Vendor Setup
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Contest Registration
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Judging and Registration Closed
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Awards Presentation
5:00 PM
Show Closes
The schedule provides plenty of time for visitors to explore the contest tables, shop the vendor area, participate in raffles, and spend time with fellow hobbyists.
Competitive and Affordable
The HPMS Model Show continues its tradition of keeping participation affordable for both experienced and newer modelers.
Contest Registration
Adults
- $10 for the first five models
- $1 for each additional model
Juniors
- $1 per model
- Maximum of $3 total
This pricing structure encourages builders to bring multiple projects and fully participate in the competition.
Vendor Opportunities
Model shows are often just as much about shopping as they are about competition, and the HPMS Model Show has long been a favorite destination for hobby vendors and attendees alike.
Vendor Tables
- $25 per table
- 6-foot table included
- Two chairs provided
- Access to wall outlets
Attendees can expect to find:
- Plastic model kits
- Aftermarket accessories
- Decals
- Paints and weathering products
- Modeling tools
- Reference materials
- Rare and out-of-production kits
For many hobbyists, the vendor room becomes a treasure hunt filled with unexpected finds and future project ideas.
Raffles and Prizes
No HPMS show would be complete without its popular raffles.
Raffle Tickets
Standard Raffle
- $1 each
- $5 for 6 tickets
Special Raffle
- $5 each
- $25 for 6 tickets
The raffles provide attendees with opportunities to take home kits, tools, hobby supplies, and other exciting prizes throughout the day.
Food and Amenities
The HPMS Model Show offers more than just great models and shopping.
Food will be available onsite from:
- Fast Frankies Wicked Eats
- Golden Years Ice Cream
These local food vendors help ensure attendees can spend the entire day enjoying the show without leaving the venue.
Please note that pets are not permitted, with the exception of service animals.
Why AFV Hobby Hub Supports Events Like the HPMS Model Show
At AFV Hobby Hub, we believe model clubs and regional events are the foundation of the scale modeling hobby.
Shows like the HPMS Model Show create opportunities for hobbyists to:
- Display their work
- Learn new techniques
- Meet fellow builders
- Discover new products
- Support local vendors
- Inspire future modelers
For armor modelers especially, these events offer valuable opportunities to study award-winning AFV builds, discuss research and techniques, and connect with builders who share a passion for military history and craftsmanship.
The dedication shown by organizations like HPMS helps ensure that the hobby continues to thrive for generations to come.
A Southeast Modeling Tradition Worth Experiencing
As HPMS approaches its milestone 50th anniversary year, the 49th Annual HPMS Model Show promises another outstanding day of competition, fellowship, shopping, and inspiration.
With its special Star Trek 60th Anniversary category, broad contest offerings, vendor opportunities, raffles, food trucks, and preview of the 2027 IPMS-USA Nationals, the event offers something for nearly every type of modeler.
Whether you're an AFV builder, aircraft enthusiast, ship modeler, sci-fi fan, or collector, Huntsville will be the place to be on August 22, 2026.
Contact Information
Show Information
Tom Clark hpmswebmaster@gmail.com
Vendor Information
Chuck Seegars hpmsvendorcoord@yahoo.com
Leave your comment