Walthers 2026 National Model Railroad Build-Off Gets Rolling June 1st with a Star-Spangled Celebration!

In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, this year’s Build-Off invites you to bring history, heritage, and creativity to life on the rails. From the earliest days of railroading to today’s modern landscape, it’s your chance to celebrate 250 years of the American story in miniature.

SELECT YOUR CATEGORY

There's something for everyone—youth or adult, individual or team—with four categories to choose from this year.

CREATE YOUR ENTRY

Use your skills to bring your creative vision to life. Let your imagination run wild as you build a scene that captivates and inspires.

SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY

Once your entry is complete, simply fill out the entry form, upload your photos and secure your chance to win!

CONTEST BEGINS
6/1/2026

ENTRIES DUE
10/1/2026

WINNERS ANNOUNCED
NOVEMBER, 2026

This year’s theme honors America’s 250th Anniversary, inviting modelers to celebrate the nation’s rich history, enduring spirit, and the vital role railroads have played in shaping it. From the expansion westward to the growth of industry and community, railroads have long been woven into the American story. Entrants are encouraged to interpret this milestone in a way that is meaningful to them—whether by recreating a defining historical moment or capturing the essence of America’s journey through time. It’s an opportunity to reflect on 250 years of progress, innovation, and imagination, and to bring that story to life in miniature.

Open to age 15 years old and over.

1ST PLACE - $1,000 CASH

2ND PLACE - $500 CASH

3RD PLACE - $250 PRODUCT BUNDLE

ENTRY SIZE REQUIREMENT: 2’W x 1’D

No purchase necessary to enter. However, all submissions must incorporate at least three Walthers-branded products, which can consist of items already owned by the entrant. Each entry must include track and at least one locomotive and/or train car.

This category celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary through paint and design, inviting modelers to turn a freight car into a patriotic tribute. From bold red, white, and blue to subtle historical nods, each entry reflects personal interpretations of American pride on a rolling canvas.

Open to age 15 years old and up.

Not open to residents of Colorado, Maryland and North Dakota due to state legal laws regulating contests. 

1ST PLACE - $500 CASH

2ND PLACE - $250 CASH

3RD PLACE - $100 PRODUCT BUNDLE

ENTRY SIZE REQUIREMENT: 2’W x 1’D

Requires the purchase of a select WalthersMainline® HO Freight Car available for purchase June 1, 2026.

40' STEEL BOXCAR WITH MURPHY END UNDECORATED
$25.98
910-41050A

50' AAR IMPROVED DOUBLE-DOOR BOXCAR UNDECORATED
$25.98
910-46600A

40' WOOD REEFER WITH STEEL ENDS UNDECORATED
$25.98
910-41300A

Bring on the grit and grime by realistically weathering the car using your choice of materials and methods; fading, rust, dirt, and wear.

Open to age 15 years old and up.

Not open to residents of Colorado, Maryland and North Dakota due to state legal laws regulating contests. 

1ST PLACE - $500 CASH

2ND PLACE - $250 CASH

3RD PLACE - $100 PRODUCT BUNDLE

ENTRY SIZE REQUIREMENT: 2’W x 1’D

Requires the purchase of a select WalthersMainline HO Freight Car available for purchase June 1, 2026.

60' NSC 5150 3-BAY COVERED HOPPER CANADIAN NATIONAL #386524
$25.98
910-7743A

50' PC&F INSULATED BOXCAR UNION PACIFIC® #499148
$25.98
910-2870A

60' HIGH CUBE PLATE F HORIZONTAL POST BOXCAR TTX TBOX #664231
$25.98
910-3116A

40' PS-1 BOXCAR CHICAGO & NORTH WESTERN™ #6264 
$25.98
910-45507A

50' ACF EXTERIOR POST DREADNAUGHT END PLATE B BOXCAR CANADIAN PACIFIC #207125
$25.98
910-46033A

60' HIGH CUBE PLATE F HORIZONTAL POST BOXCAR TTX TBOX #664231
$25.98
910-3116A

This year’s theme honors America’s 250th Anniversary, inviting modelers to celebrate the nation’s rich history, enduring spirit, and the vital role railroads have played in shaping it. From the expansion westward to the growth of industry and community, railroads have long been woven into the American story. Entrants are encouraged to interpret this milestone in a way that is meaningful to them—whether by recreating a defining historical moment or capturing the essence of America’s journey through time. It’s an opportunity to reflect on 250 years of progress, innovation, and imagination, and to bring that story to life in miniature.

Open to age 14 years old and under.

1ST PLACE - $1,000 CASH

2ND PLACE - $500 CASH

3RD PLACE - $250 PRODUCT BUNDLE

ENTRY SIZE REQUIREMENT: 2’W x 1’D

No purchase necessary to enter. However, all submissions must incorporate at least three Walthers-branded products, which can consist of items already owned by the entrant. Each entry must include track and at least one locomotive and/or train car.

This category celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary through paint and design, inviting modelers to turn a freight car into a patriotic tribute. From bold red, white, and blue to subtle historical nods, each entry reflects personal interpretations of American pride on a rolling canvas.

Open to age 14 years old and under.

Requires the purchase of a select WalthersMainline® Freight Car available for purchase June 1, 2026.

Not open to residents of Colorado, Maryland and North Dakota due to state legal laws regulating contests.

1ST PLACE - $500 CASH

2ND PLACE - $250 CASH

3RD PLACE - $100 PRODUCT BUNDLE

ENTRY REQUIREMENT:

Requires the purchase of a select WalthersMainline HO Freight Car available for purchase June 1, 2026.

40' STEEL BOXCAR WITH MURPHY END UNDECORATED
$25.98
910-41050A

50' AAR IMPROVED DOUBLE-DOOR BOXCAR UNDECORATED
$25.98
910-46600A

40' WOOD REEFER WITH STEEL ENDS UNDECORATED
$25.98
910-41300A

Bring on the grit and grime by realistically weathering the car using your choice of materials and methods; fading, rust, dirt, and wear.

Open to age 14 years old and under.

Not open to residents of Colorado, Maryland and North Dakota due to state legal laws regulating contests. 

1ST PLACE - $500 CASH

2ND PLACE - $250 CASH

3RD PLACE - $100 PRODUCT BUNDLE

ENTRY SIZE REQUIREMENT: 2’W x 1’D

Requires the purchase of a select WalthersMainline HO Freight Car available for purchase June 1, 2026.

60' NSC 5150 3-BAY COVERED HOPPER CANADIAN NATIONAL #386524
$25.98
910-7743A

50' PC&F INSULATED BOXCAR UNION PACIFIC® #499148
$25.98
910-2870A

60' HIGH CUBE PLATE F HORIZONTAL POST BOXCAR TTX TBOX #664231
$25.98
910-3116A

40' PS-1 BOXCAR CHICAGO & NORTH WESTERN™ #6264 
$25.98
910-45507A

50' ACF EXTERIOR POST DREADNAUGHT END PLATE B BOXCAR CANADIAN PACIFIC #207125
$25.98
910-46033A

60' HIGH CUBE PLATE F HORIZONTAL POST BOXCAR TTX TBOX #664231
$25.98
910-3116A

Show us your modeling chops in whatever scale you like! Create a 4' x 2' diorama that showcases your creativity and craftsmanship. The theme is entirely up to you—whether it’s a bustling cityscape, a serene natural setting, or a charming farm scene, let your skills shine. This is your chance to impress with intricate details and innovative techniques. 

1ST PLACE - $2,000 CASH

2ND PLACE - $1,000 CASH

3RD PLACE - $500 PRODUCT BUNDLE

ENTRY SIZE REQUIREMENT: 4’W x 2’D

Open to all ages, individuals or teams. Entrants build a scene using materials of their choice. Must include a minor consent form for any participants under the age of 18.

All entries will be judged on skill, creativity, and adherence to competition rules. Each category has specific requirements, please review the full Contest Rules and Entry Requirements before entering.

Entrants under the age of 18 must submit signed approval from parent of guardian. Minor Consent Form.

Entries must be submitted via online form at walthers.com/nmrbo. Form will be available after July 1, 2026.

EACH ENTRY MUST INCLUDE:
• Photos from multiple angles (the more, the better), including:
      - Photo(s) with the inclusion of a tape measure alongside 
 width and length to indicate size.
      - Several photos of final entry from different angles; top
 down, front, L-side and R-side. Optional - detail shots help
 the judges see the quality of your work.
      - Individual or team photo with finished entry.
• Completed entry form including Name, Address, Email,
 Telephone Number.
• For Historical Diorama entries: a brief description of the historical event that inspired your work. A list of the three Walthers branded products used in the entry.
• Minor Consent Form if under 18 years of age

SILVER SCREEN SCENES (New category this year) 

Design a scene or create an artistic interpretation that captures the essence, mood, or narrative of a movie or television program where a train plays a central role. This can include iconic train settings, pivotal moments involving a train, or the symbolic significance of a train in the story. Entrants are encouraged to creatively explore how the train contributes to the theme, atmosphere, or storytelling, making it the undeniable focal point of their work.

Choose your favorite movie or get inspired by our Movie List

1ST PLACE - $1,000 CASH

2ND PLACE - $500 CASH

3RD PLACE - $250 PRODUCT BUNDLE

Entry size requirement: 2’W x 1’D
Open to individuals or teams fifteen (15) years old or older at the time of entry. Must include a minor consent form for those under 18.

FREESTYLE CATEGORY

Show us your modeling chops in whatever scale you like! Create a 4' x 2' diorama that showcases your creativity and craftsmanship. The theme is entirely up to you—whether it’s a bustling cityscape, a serene natural setting, or a charming farm scene, let your skills shine. This is your chance to impress with intricate details and innovative techniques. Get inspired by      past entries>>

1ST PLACE - $2,000 CASH

2ND PLACE - $1,000 CASH

3RD PLACE - $250 PRODUCT BUNDLE

Entry size requirement: 4’W x 2’D
Open to all ages, individuals or teams. Entrants build a scene using materials of their choice. Must include a minor consent form for any participants under the age of 18.

Mystery/Thriller
- Murder on the Orient Express (1974, 2017) 
- The Lady Vanishes (1938) 
- Lady on a Train (1945) 
- Strangers on a Train (1951) 
- North by Northwest (1959) 
- Night Train (2009) 
- Agatha Christie's Poirot* 
- The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes* (1984-1994)

Action Thriller
- Unstoppable (2010)
- Von Ryan's Express (1965)
- The Great Train Robbery (1978)
- James Bond 007 Film Series (1962-2021)

Action/Adventure
- The General (1926)
- Runaway Train (1985)
- Night Train to Lisbon (2013)
- The Lone Ranger* (1949-1957)
- The Wild Wild West* (1965-1969)

Western
- TheTrain Robbers (1973)
- Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)
- The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)
- 3:10 to Yuma (1957, 2007)
- Union Pacific (1939)
- Hell on Wheels* (2011-2016)

*Indicates a television show/series

Comedy
- Silver Streak (1976)
- Throw Momma from the Train (1987)
- The Darjeeling Limited (2007)
- It Happened to Jane (1959)
- Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
- Petticoat Junction* (1963-1970)

Drama
- Brief Encounter (1945)
- The Train (1964)
- Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
- The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009)
- Emperor of the North (1973)
- O’Horten (2007)
- Supertrain* (1979)

Kids and Family
- The Polar Express (2004)
- Harry Potter Film Series (2001-2011)
- Thomas & Friends* (1984-2021)
- Chuggington* (2008-2020)
- Shining Time Station* (1989-1993)

Sci-Fi/Fantasy
- Back to the Future III (1990)
- Atlas Shrugged Movie Series (2011-2012)
- Snowpiercer* (2020-2023)
- Infinity Train* (2019-2021)

Reality and Documentary
- Mighty Trains (2017-present)
- Great Railway Journeys (1994-present)

HO SCALE 50' ACF EXTERIOR POST BOXCAR WSOR 101569
$22.98
910-1869A

HO SCALE 53' RAILGON GONDOLA GONX 310616
$22.98
910-6908A

HO SCALE 57' MECHANICAL REEFER BNFE 9320
$22.98
910-3978A