South Florida modelers and hobby enthusiasts have an outstanding event to look forward to this summer as IPMS/Flight 19 Fort Lauderdale prepares to host:
Flight 19 ModelFest ’26
Saturday, August 22, 2026
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
E. Pat Larkins Community Center
520 NW 3rd St
Pompano Beach, FL 33060
At www.AFVhobbyhub.com, we are proud to support events like ModelFest that bring together builders, collectors, vendors, and hobby families while promoting the creativity and craftsmanship that define the scale modeling community.
South Florida’s Premier Free Modeling Event
One of the standout aspects of ModelFest ’26 is that it is:
FREE to the Public
That accessibility makes the event perfect for:
- Experienced modelers
- First-time attendees
- Families and younger hobbyists
- Anyone curious about scale modeling
Hosted by Flight 19 IPMS, this event continues to grow as a cornerstone of the Florida modeling scene, drawing participants from across the state and beyond.
A Full Day of Modeling, Learning, and Inspiration
ModelFest ’26 offers something for everyone in the hobby.
Attendees can:
- Enter models into a wide range of contest categories
- Explore detailed displays from talented builders
- Learn new tips and techniques
- Shop unique finds from vendors
- Participate in a raffle featuring sponsor prizes
Whether your interest is:
- Armor and AFVs
- Aircraft
- Automotive subjects
- Ships
- Figures
- Sci-fi and fantasy
- Gundam and mecha
- Dioramas
…you’ll find inspiration throughout the event.
Contest Categories & Awards
The contest portion of ModelFest spans a wide range of modeling genres and skill levels, including:
- Open competition categories
- Dedicated youth divisions
- Display opportunities for all experience levels
Major awards include:
- 🏆 Best in Show
- 🏆 People’s Choice Award
- 🏆 President’s Award
These awards recognize not only technical excellence, but also creativity and presentation.
Vendors & Hobby Shopping
ModelFest will feature vendor tables offering:
- Plastic model kits
- Aftermarket accessories
- Resin upgrades and detail parts
- Decals and figures
- Paints and weathering supplies
- Tools and hobby essentials
Vendor areas are always a highlight, and this year promises a great mix of products for every type of modeler.
Raffle & Prizes
A popular part of ModelFest each year is the:
Raffle
With prizes donated by sponsors, attendees can expect:
- Model kits
- Tools and accessories
- Paint sets
- Hobby supplies
- Other collectibles
It’s a fun way to support the club and potentially walk away with something great for your workbench.
A Welcoming Community Event
Flight 19 ModelFest isn’t just a contest—it’s a celebration of the hobby itself.
The event emphasizes:
- Community and fellowship
- Skill development
- Encouragement for new builders
- Sharing ideas and techniques
It’s an ideal environment whether you're a competitive modeler or simply enjoying the hobby at your own pace.
Supporting the Modeling Community
At www.AFVhobbyhub.com, we proudly support:
- IPMS chapters
- Regional model contests
- Vendor communities
- Builders across all modeling genres
Events like ModelFest play a crucial role in:
- Growing the hobby
- Supporting younger modelers
- Showcasing creativity and craftsmanship
- Bringing modelers together in person
We encourage everyone in Florida and beyond to support Flight 19 ModelFest ’26.
Contact Information
Contest Chairperson:
Meir Israel photomeir@gmail.com
Event Website: https://www.flight19ipms.org/modelfest26
Plan Your Visit
August 22, 2026
Pompano Beach, Florida
Whether you're entering a model, browsing vendor tables, or just enjoying the displays, ModelFest ’26 promises a full day of inspiration and community.
Visit AFV Hobby Hub
For kits, aftermarket accessories, tools, paints, and hobby news:
👉 www.AFVhobbyhub.com
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