Tracks to Tidewater - 2026 NMRA/MER Convention

A large, four-day event organized by National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) Tidewater Division for the Mid-Eastern Region (MER), bringing together model railroad enthusiasts for a variety of activities. Events will feature clinics, layout tours, operating sessions, contests, prototype tours, and a banquet to recognize the winners of the contests as well as those who have achieved Master Model Railroader status. The goal is to provide a forum for members to learn, share, and enjoy the hobby of model railroading.
Here's a more detailed look at sampling of what you can expect:
Clinics: Presentations and workshops on various aspects of model railroading, covering techniques, tools, and specific modeling skills.
Open House Tours: Opportunities to visit impressive home and club layouts, providing inspiration and a chance to see different modeling styles.
Operating Sessions: Participating in the operation of model railroads, following schedules and procedures similar to real railroads.
Evaluations: Model contests, where participants can showcase their creations and compete for awards.
Prototype Tours: Visits to real-world railroad locations or museums, offering a chance to see the prototypes that inspire modelers.
White Elephant Room: A marketplace where attendees can buy or sell each other's model railroad equipment and related items.
Banquet: Dinner to celebrate the winners of the contests, the accomplishments of model railroaders in the region, and an opportunity to connect with fellow model railroaders. An noted individual in the world of model or prototype railroading will deliver a keynote speech.