NWSM Model Mania: Participant FAQ

​General Information

​Do I need to be an NWSM member to display a model?

No. Model Mania is open to the public. While NWSM hosts the event, we welcome independent modelers and members of other local clubs (such as Gunpla, gaming, or historical groups) to display their work.

Is there an entry fee for participants?

There are no fees or paperwork required to display your models. As an added benefit, museum entry is free for all confirmed participants displaying models.

How do I get my entry pass?

Participants can receive their entry pass at the Welcome Table upon arrival. Please note that guests or family members not displaying a model must purchase a standard Museum of Flight ticket.

Model Eligibility & Categories

​What types of models are allowed?

We welcome all types of scale modeling! This includes:

  • Traditional: Military, aircraft, maritime, and automotive scales.
  • ​Mecha/Sci-Fi: Gundam (Gunpla), Armored Core, 30 Minute Missions/Fantasy.
  • ​Pop Culture: Pokémon, Digimon, and other gaming or cartoon-based models.

​Note: All displays must be family-friendly and adhere to Museum of Flight guidelines.

What are the Special Displays?

These are internal exhibits organized by the NWSM club:​

  • Project Canceled: A curated display featuring aircraft that never moved past the design, prototype, or testing phases. This is an internal club display and is not open for outside contributions.
  • World of Gundam: This display aims to include small contributions from the local Gunpla community. Inclusion is at the organizer’s discretion and depends on available space. To contribute to this specific table, please contact Joshua Scott in advance or arrive by 9:30 AM to check for availability.

There is also ample space on our general display tables for all other models and genres!

Seminars & Presentations

Are there educational seminars?

Yes! We will host a variety of modeling seminars throughout the event. These will take place within the Great Gallery.

​How do I find the seminar schedule?

The full schedule of topics and times is posted on the Events page, and will be posted at the Welcome Table. We will also make announcements throughout the day to notify guests when a new seminar is about to begin.

Logistics & Arrival​

Where do I go to set up?

For all setup times (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), participants should meet at the Great Gallery. This is the central hub for check-in and table assignments.

Where do I park?

Parking is free for all visitors and participants.

  • ​East Campus (Main Lot): Best for the Great Gallery entrance.
  • ​West Campus Lot: Located by the Space Gallery/Aviation Pavilion.
  • ​Boeing Oxbow/Employee Lot: Overflow parking at S. 96th Place.

What is the schedule?

  • ​Friday (Early Setup): Setup begins at 4:00 PM. Meet in the Great Gallery.
  • ​Saturday & Sunday: * 7:00 AM: Doors open for setup in the Great Gallery.
    • ​9:45 AM: Final cutoff for placing models on tables.
    • ​10:00 AM: Show opens to the public.

​How is table space assigned?

All general display space is first-come, first-served. We recommend arriving as early as possible after the doors open to secure space, especially for larger collections or group displays.

Contact Us

​If you have specific questions regarding your display or group attendance, please contact our event coordinators: