Model Expo Italy 2026: The Ultimate Celebration of Modeling and Pop Culture Returns to Verona
From March 7 to 8, 2026, the prestigious Veronafiere exhibition centre in Verona, Italy, will open its doors to thousands of enthusiasts, professionals, and curious visitors for the 21st edition of Model Expo Italy . Recognized as the most important event in Italy for static and dynamic modeling, this annual gathering has cemented its reputation as a must-attend appointment for hobbyists, collectors, and industry professionals from across Europe and beyond . What was once a niche exhibition for scale model aficionados has evolved into a sprawling, multi-faceted festival that celebrates not only traditional craftsmanship but also contemporary pop culture, creativity, and digital entertainment.
The 2026 edition promises to be particularly significant, introducing groundbreaking attractions and an expanded format that reflects the organizers’ commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly changing cultural landscape. With over 65,000 square meters of exhibition space spread across four spacious and homogeneous pavilions, Model Expo Italy 2026 will transform Veronafiere into a wonderland of miniatures, historical dioramas, interactive experiences, and pop culture celebrations .
Model Expo Italy 2026 will take place over two action-packed days:
The exhibition centre is conveniently located near Verona’s southern industrial area, with excellent connections to the city center, major highways, and Villafranca Airport. Visitors arriving by train can reach the venue via regular bus services from Verona Porta Nuova railway station, one of Italy’s busiest transport hubs.
Diventa espositore e vendi nei Paesi Arabi e in tutto il mondo.
Entra in contatto diretto con buyer qualificati e importatori attivi a livello internazionale clicca qui .
Registrati sul nostro marketplace e connettiti con oltre 23.000 professionisti ogni mese.
The 2026 edition will occupy a total surface area exceeding 65,000 square meters, organized into four large, homogeneous pavilions . This represents a significant expansion compared to previous editions and demonstrates the continued growth of the event. The layout has been completely redesigned to improve visitor flow and create more immersive thematic zones.
The numbers speak for themselves:
Model Expo Italy has always been, at its core, a celebration of the model maker’s art. The 2026 edition confirms all the traditional areas that have made the event famous, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to admire extraordinary creations and learn from master modelers.
One of the most beloved sections of the fair, railway modeling attracts visitors of all ages who stand mesmerized by elaborate layouts depicting miniature worlds in motion. The 2026 edition will feature some of Italy’s most prestigious railway modeling clubs, presenting meticulously crafted landscapes where tiny locomotives wind through mountains, cross viaducts, and stop at faithfully reproduced stations. These layouts are not mere toys but works of art that capture the golden age of rail travel with astonishing attention to detail.
The naval modeling section holds a special place in the hearts of many visitors. This year, the highlight will undoubtedly be the Andrea Doria, the legendary Italian ocean liner that sank in 1956 after colliding with the Stockholm off the coast of Nantucket . Previously displayed as a static exhibit, the 2026 edition will see the model ship actually sailing in the large pool set up in Pavilion 9. This rievocazione (reenactment) will be enhanced by original footage from the Istituto LUCE, Italy’s historic public newsreel archive, creating an emotional and historically rich experience that connects past and present.
The sky is the limit in the aircraft modeling section, where visitors can admire faithful reproductions of flying machines from the dawn of aviation to modern jet fighters. The absolute novelty for 2026 is the presence of a life-size replica of a Nieuport 11 Bébé biplane from World War I, arriving in Verona thanks to the Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare) . This single-seat French fighter, known as the “Baby,” was one of the most successful aircraft of the Great War and played a crucial role in establishing Allied air superiority. The 1:1 scale replica will allow visitors to appreciate the fragility and bravery of early military aviation up close.
Adding a high-tech twist, visitors will also have the opportunity to fly virtually aboard the Frecce Tricolori, Italy’s renowned national aerobatic team . Using augmented reality viewers, guests can experience the thrill of flying in formation with the world’s largest aerobatic patrol, their signature green, white, and red smoke trails painting the virtual sky.
For those who appreciate the art of capturing a moment in miniature, the static modeling section offers an extraordinary array of figures, vehicles, and scenes. The 2026 edition will feature an impressive diorama of the Battle of Gettysburg, one of the most pivotal engagements of the American Civil War . This large-scale reconstruction will depict the intensity of Pickett’s Charge, with hundreds of miniature soldiers locked in combat across a faithfully reproduced Pennsylvania landscape.
From Formula 1 single-seaters to classic Italian sports cars, the automotive modeling section celebrates the country’s deep passion for beautiful machines. Exhibitors will showcase hyper-detailed replicas of Ferrari, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, and Ducati models, alongside international automotive icons. Competitions will reward the most faithful reproductions, judged on accuracy, painting quality, and attention to mechanical details.
A full pavilion is dedicated to dynamic modeling, featuring no fewer than 11 tracks where radio-controlled vehicles can demonstrate their capabilities . From off-road trucks navigating challenging terrain to sleek racing cars reaching impressive speeds on straightaways, this section offers non-stop action. Visitors can interact with drivers, learn about radio control technology, and even try their hand at piloting these sophisticated machines.
Since its introduction, the Brick Arena has become one of the most popular attractions at Model Expo Italy, and the 2026 edition confirms its centrality. Dedicated to the world’s most famous colored bricks, the arena occupies 10,000 square meters of exhibition space and hosts 320 exhibitors and 36 associations .
Here, visitors can admire extraordinary constructions created by master builders, participate in building workshops, and purchase rare and collectible sets from specialized vendors. The Brick Arena is a paradise for children and adults alike, demonstrating how plastic bricks have become a legitimate medium for artistic expression.
Among the most anticipated exhibits in the Brick Arena is “Eroi” (Heroes), presented by the Dado Brick association . This diorama, composed of over 10,000 pieces, represents the historical events of 1992 in which Magistrates Giovanni Falcone, Paolo Borsellino, Francesca Morvillo, and their escort agents lost their lives in the fight against the Mafia. The work is not just a technical achievement but a powerful reminder of the importance of legality and the sacrifice of those who gave their lives for justice. It demonstrates how modeling can transcend mere hobby to become a vehicle for memory and civic education.
Dario Cammi will present a series of unique interactive games that engage visitors in playful challenges using brick-based mechanics . Meanwhile, Matteo Favalli, known as “the professor who turned his home into a Space base during the pandemic,” will be present with his large diorama, entirely motorized and illuminated . Favalli’s creations, born from pandemic-era creativity, transform everyday spaces into extraterrestrial landscapes, complete with functioning lights and moving elements that captivate audiences of all ages.
Model Expo Italy has always recognized that modeling is closely related to the broader world of manual creativity. The Creativity Village is dedicated to those who love working with their hands, offering a space where visitors can explore various artistic techniques and create something to take home .
Throughout the two days, the village will host workshops and demonstrations covering:
These workshops are not mere demonstrations but interactive experiences where visitors can try their hand under the guidance of experienced instructors. It’s an opportunity to discover new passions and appreciate the skill that goes into handmade creations.
The most significant innovation for Model Expo Italy 2026 is the launch of the Verona Pop&Play Festival, an evolution of the previous Play District concept . This new format represents a strategic expansion of the event’s scope, embracing contemporary pop culture with the same enthusiasm traditionally reserved for classic modeling.
The festival’s name encapsulates its philosophy:
This dual focus creates a bridge between the analog creativity of traditional modeling and the digital-native culture of younger generations, ensuring that Model Expo Italy remains relevant for years to come.
The poster for this renewed format has been entrusted to Gabriele Peddes, an illustrator who has published comics with BlackVelvet, DeAgostini, Tunuè, Erickson, and Attaccapanni Press . Peddes’s distinctive style, which blends contemporary aesthetics with narrative depth, perfectly captures the spirit of a festival that looks to the future while respecting its roots.
One of the most explosive novelties of Verona Pop&Play Festival is HUNTRIX CREW – TRIBUTE SHOW, a performance dedicated to the phenomenon of the moment: K-POP DEMON HUNTERS, the event film that has been available on Netflix since summer 2025 .
This 15-minute high-impact show draws inspiration from the animated film’s story, featuring:
The presence of live singing distinguishes this tribute from simple dance covers, adding theatrical depth to the performance. It’s a bold move that places Model Expo Italy at the intersection of animation, music, and live entertainment.
K-POP culture extends beyond the stage at Verona Pop&Play Festival. A K-POP CONTEST will be open to soloists and crews, inviting participants to present original choreographies set to iconic songs by legendary idols . A jury of experts will evaluate performances, rewarding creativity, technical skill, and stage presence.
Offstage, visitors can immerse themselves in East Asian culture through:
This comprehensive approach transforms simple fandom into cultural education, helping visitors understand the contexts from which their favorite content emerges.
The “PLAY” component of the festival ensures that gamers of all types find something to engage with. The gaming areas will feature:
These areas are designed to be participatory, not merely exhibitive. Visitors can sit down and play, learn new games from expert facilitators, and connect with fellow enthusiasts in a welcoming environment.
Model Expo Italy’s historic partnership with Gardaland, Italy’s premier amusement park, continues in 2026 with a special presence. Some iconic scenic elements will leave the park’s perimeter for the first time, creating a unique photo opportunity for visitors . These installations will serve as meeting points for theme park enthusiasts, who can also snap a souvenir selfie with Prezzemolo, the beloved mascot and official ambassador to the fair . This collaboration brings a touch of magic and childhood wonder to the exhibition halls.
In keeping with tradition, Model Expo Italy 2026 will run concurrently with Elettroexpo, now in its 66th edition . Dedicated to computer enthusiasts and radio amateurs, Elettroexpo includes the “mercatino del privato” (private market), an exhibition area where visitors can buy and sell:
This coexistence of events creates a richer experience for visitors, who can explore both the miniature worlds of modeling and the nostalgic treasures of vintage technology under a single roof.
Visitors are strongly advised to register in advance to obtain admission tickets and avoid queues at the entrance . The official Model Expo Italy website (www.modelexpoitaly.it) provides up-to-date information on ticket prices, online purchase options, and any early-bird discounts .
For those traveling from abroad, careful planning is essential:
To make the most of the experience, visitors should come prepared:
Italy has distinct cultural norms that visitors should respect:
At its heart, Model Expo Italy is about community. It’s where long-time friends reconnect, where novices find mentors, and where the solitary pursuit of model making transforms into a shared celebration. The presence of 36 associations demonstrates the vital role that clubs and organizations play in nurturing this hobby, passing techniques from generation to generation, and preserving knowledge that might otherwise be lost .
Model making is, in many ways, a form of education. Building a scale model requires research into historical accuracy, understanding of engineering principles, and development of fine motor skills. The dioramas at Model Expo Italy tell stories—of battles, of technological progress, of human achievement and tragedy. The “Eroi” brick diorama, for instance, educates young visitors about recent Italian history in a way that textbooks cannot match . Similarly, the Andrea Doria sailing with period footage connects visitors to a pivotal moment in maritime history .
For exhibitors—whether multinational corporations or small family businesses—Model Expo Italy represents a crucial sales and networking opportunity. With 70,000 visitors over two days, the exposure is immense . Many exhibitors report that the fair generates significant revenue and leads to long-term customer relationships. The simultaneous presence of Elettroexpo expands the commercial reach, attracting collectors and enthusiasts with diverse interests .
Perhaps most importantly, Model Expo Italy bridges generational divides. Grandparents who built model airplanes as children can share that passion with grandchildren who discover similar joy in brick construction or video games. The Verona Pop&Play Festival acknowledges that younger generations express creativity differently, while the traditional modeling sections preserve the heritage that made the fair famous . This inclusive approach ensures that the event remains a family destination where everyone finds something to love.
As Model Expo Italy celebrates its 21st edition, the organizers demonstrate a clear vision for the future. The introduction of Verona Pop&Play Festival is not a departure from tradition but an expansion of it—a recognition that “modeling” today encompasses digital creation, pop culture fandom, and interactive entertainment alongside traditional crafts.
The event’s growth in size (65,000+ square meters), exhibitor numbers (450+), and visitor attendance (70,000) suggests a healthy future . By maintaining partnerships with institutions like the Italian Air Force and commercial partners like Gardaland, the fair ensures continued relevance and appeal .
For 2027 and beyond, the organizers have already reserved dates in March at Veronafiere, indicating a commitment to continuity while leaving room for further innovation . The success of new initiatives in 2026 will likely shape future editions, potentially expanding the Pop&Play component or introducing additional thematic areas.
From March 7 to 8, 2026, Verona will once again become the capital of Italian modeling and pop culture. Model Expo Italy offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore miniature worlds, learn from master craftspeople, discover new hobbies, and connect with thousands of like-minded enthusiasts.
The 2026 edition promises to be particularly memorable, with the life-size Nieuport biplane, the sailing Andrea Doria, the expanded Brick Arena, and the debut of Verona Pop&Play Festival with its K-POP tributes and gaming areas . Whether you are a lifelong modeler, a curious newcomer, a pop culture fan, or a family looking for a weekend adventure, Model Expo Italy extends a warm welcome.
The exhibition halls of Veronafiere await, ready to transport visitors into worlds both miniature and vast, historical and futuristic, analog and digital. Mark your calendars, book your travel, and prepare to be amazed by the creativity, passion, and skill on display at Italy’s number one model show.
Model Expo Italy 2026
Where: Veronafiere, Viale del Lavoro, 8, 37135 Verona, Italy
When: March 7-8, 2026
Website: www.modelexpoitaly.it
Italian 
Arabic 