AFV Hobby Hub is proud to support and promote model shows that bring hobbyists together, strengthen local modeling communities, and celebrate the craftsmanship that makes scale modeling such a rewarding hobby. One event that continues to do exactly that is Minnesota's popular Hope It Don't Snow Show, returning on February 6, 2027, with a brand-new venue and growing excitement throughout the Midwest modeling community.
Hosted by the Zumbro Valley Scale Modelers, this annual event has earned a reputation as one of the region's premier winter contests. Following a successful 2026 show that attracted nearly 600 model entries, organizers are expecting another outstanding turnout as modelers gather in Rochester for a full day of competition, vendors, raffles, and fellowship.
Event Details
Hope It Don't Snow Show 2027
Date: February 6, 2027
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM CST
Venue: RCTC Heintz Center
2130 College View Rd E
Rochester, MN 55904
Host: IPMS/Zumbro Valley Scale Modelers
Region: IPMS/USA Region 5 – Midwest
Website:
https://zumbrovalleyscalemodelers.com/annual-show/
Contact:
George Romano, Contest Chairperson
Phone: 507-358-4614
Email: gjromanogjromano@yahoo.com
A New Venue for a Growing Show
One of the biggest developments for 2027 is the move to the RCTC Heintz Center, providing additional room for model displays, vendors, and attendees. The expanded facility reflects the continued growth of the show and ensures that visitors can enjoy even more models, shopping opportunities, and social interaction throughout the day.
A Must-Attend Event for AFV Modelers
For armor enthusiasts, the Hope It Don't Snow Show consistently delivers an impressive display of military vehicles and dioramas. Visitors can expect to see everything from World War I tanks and World War II armor to Cold War subjects, modern armored fighting vehicles, artillery, military soft-skins, and detailed combat dioramas.
The event's Gold, Silver, Bronze judging system encourages participation at every skill level by evaluating models against established craftsmanship standards rather than direct competition alone. This makes the show especially welcoming to both experienced competitors and modelers entering their first contest.
More Than a Contest
Beyond the competition, attendees can enjoy a large vendor area featuring model kits, aftermarket accessories, decals, paints, tools, books, and hard-to-find collectibles. The popular $1 Pick-Your-Prize Raffle remains a fan favorite, offering hobby-related prizes while helping support the event.
With free admission for spectators and unlimited contest entries for a single $15 registration fee, the show continues to provide tremendous value for participants and visitors alike.
AFV Hobby Hub Supports the Modeling Community
At AFV Hobby Hub, we believe clubs and regional events are the foundation of the scale modeling hobby. Shows like Hope It Don't Snow bring together builders of all ages and skill levels, creating opportunities to learn new techniques, share ideas, showcase completed projects, and build lasting friendships within the hobby.
Whether you're an armor modeler searching for inspiration, a collector looking for rare kits, or a hobbyist who simply enjoys spending time with fellow builders, Hope It Don't Snow Show 2027 promises to be one of the Midwest's premier modeling events.
AFV Hobby Hub encourages modelers throughout the region to support the Zumbro Valley Scale Modelers and experience one of the hobby's most enjoyable winter traditions. After all, even if it does snow, the models will still be waiting.
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