The 14th PAPRYKARZ 2026 Model-Building Festival of the PAPRYKARZ Society of Friends of Children in Szczecin

On the first weekend of October, Szczecin will once again become the capital of passion, precision, and micro-scale technology. The Society of Friends of Children, West Pomeranian Regional Branch in Szczecin, as the main organizer, together with the Szczecin Modelers’ Club “Paprykarz,” cordially invites residents of West Pomerania and tourists to Technopark Pomerania for the 14th Szczecin Modelers’ Festival of the Society of Friends of Children, “Paprykarz 2026” . This is one of the largest and most important events of its kind in Poland, attracting hundreds of modelers from Poland and abroad each year, as well as thousands of unique, intricately crafted works made of cardboard and plastic. Visitors will be able to admire incredible replicas of airplanes, combat vehicles, and figurines, as well as breathtaking historical models and dioramas. This year’s edition strongly reflects the identity of our region. The main theme of the festival is the “Under the Polish Flag” themed competition, which promotes Polish maritime history through miniatures of warships, merchant ships, sailing vessels, and port infrastructure. The event’s special guest will be the distinguished marine painter Grzegorz Nawrocki, whose exhibition of works and lecture are scheduled as part of the festival program. Young Modelers’ Zone – Free Workshops for Children: The festival pursues important social and educational goals that are central to the mission of the Society of Friends of Children. A special, open workshop zone has been prepared with our youngest guests and entire families in mind. This is a unique opportunity, as the workshops will be led in person by our experienced modelers, who create the festival’s masterpieces on a daily basis. Under their guidance, children and teens will be able to take their first steps in this craft, learning directly from seasoned practitioners and enthusiasts. Free model kits, glue, paint, and tools will be provided on-site. Every young model-making enthusiast will be able to assemble, paint, and take their first miniature creation home. The workshops develop spatial imagination, manual dexterity, and patience, offering an excellent, creative alternative to spending time in front of a computer or phone screen. Additional attractions: The program also includes a large model-making fair, demonstrations by historical reenactment groups, and presentations of modern military equipment (including drones and vehicles from the 14th West Pomeranian Territorial Defense Brigade).