FORT WAYNE, IN (August 4, 2026) — Another international event is landing in Fort Wayne this week. Visit Fort Wayne and the Grand Wayne Convention Center are looking forward to welcoming the International Plastic Modelers’ Society (IPMS) for their 2026 National Convention, August 5 – 8.

This event brings more than 1,300 registered attendees and expects an additional 700 – 1,200 walks ins for the show. Attendees are coming from all over the U.S. as well as Argentina, Austria, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Ireland, New Zealand, Sweden, and Uganda. Vendors are also coming from across the U.S. as well as the Czech Republic, Japan, Poland, New Zealand, and Russia.

John Figueroa, IPMS/USA 2026 National Convention Chairman says, “We invite Fort Wayne residents, families, and visitors of all ages, to come experience the 2026 International Plastic Modelers’ Society, USA National Convention and see more than 3,000 incredible scale models created by some of the world’s finest scale modelers. This is more than a competition, it is a rare chance to explore history, aviation, ships, cars, science fiction, military subjects, Gundam, and imagination brought to life in miniature. Whether you are a longtime hobbyist or simply looking for something unique to enjoy with your family, we hope you will join us, be amazed, and discover the artistry behind every model on display.”

The plastic model show is open to the public with $15 for general admission for an individual or a family including 2 parents with any children under age 18.

The Saturday show is especially recommended to view as the Contest room will be open from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. showcasing some of the best plastic models from around the world. The show is followed by a closed awards ceremony for members-only.

This event expects to bring more than $1.2 million in direct economic impact.

Just this summer, from April to date, more than 16,000 event attendees have visited the Grand Wayne Convention Center, demonstrating the continued impact of group tourism on Allen County. These visitors help offset resident taxes and boost our economy by filling our hotels and spending money at our local restaurants, shops, and attractions.

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For additional information or media interviews, please contact:

Nicolle Campbell, Director of Sales, Visit Fort Wayne
nicolle@visitfortwayne.com
(260) 424-3700

John Figueroa, IPMS/USA 2026 National Convention Chairman
figueroa1956@gmail.com
(703) 483-0423


Visit Fort Wayne, the Fort Wayne/Allen County Convention and Visitors Bureau, is the not-for-profit organization whose purpose is to expand Fort Wayne's economy by attracting convention and leisure visitors. Each year, millions of dollars from visitor spending generate increased commerce, sustained jobs and enhancement of Fort Wayne's Image.