Do spectators typically have to pay to get in at Nats?

I cannot answer your question, but was wondering if somebody could supply a link or something. I would like to know more about these events, haven't a clue where to start looking.

Yes, but there are a few exceptions if I remember right... I do recall one being to bring a Boy Scout in uniform- some sort of introducing youth to modeling promotion.

Yes, the IPMS nationals have always charged a small admission fee for the general public. This year it is $10 per person and $15 for a family.  To check on some upcoming contests and shows go to http://www.ipmsusa.org/ and check in upcoming events.  That lists some shows.

btw. the Nationals also has the worlds largest traveling hobby shop that you can go to, with the admission fee.  But if the price to go is to high for you, it would be best to stay away from it.  One can really drop a few coins in that room.

Doug

Thank you very much for the link, Doug. I had no idea the IPMS existed, there appears to be a wealth of information there.

They even charge at most of the regional shows too.  AMPS too.

Yup, pretty much any model show has an entry fee, even just to come in and look. After all they do have to pay foor using the venue, and kit entry fees alone will  not cover that. And pay for prizes, and any other amenities they may offer as part of the show. And most clubs at least have dues for their members for the same reasons.

At many IPMS events they will rebate you the cost of the walk-in entry fee if you sign up as a member.

Several of the recent Nats I've attended did not allow walk-ins to participate in the seminars and presentations.   They are reserved for those who have paid the registration fee.

You must be a member to enter models in the show.   You must also be a member to be a judge.

Venue costs are a couple of grand a day.  The vendor table charges cover much of that.   Registration fees covers more

Many of the trophy packs are donated by other chapters & organizations

Walk-in fees provide an often needed budget balancing source of funds.

It is not a goal of the convention to be a money maker.   Similarly it is a major goal to not loose money

Hi doug

true. i have bought only five kits to date in the vendor room but it is still early. oh and one raffle win and one trade for a PLA SNOW LEOPOLD 8x8.

Please allow me to make a small correction.  If you decide to register for the Nationals at the convention, you must first join IPMS/USA if you aren't already an active member.  This must be done separately at the IPMS/USA booth, which is usually right next to the registration booth. Unfortunately, Society membership cannot be combined with registration, as it would violate IRS regulations.

Based on each convention's policy, the walk-in fee might be deducted from the convention registration fee, not the membership fee.  There is a provision in the convention registration software for doing this.

Also, the venue for a Nationals is considerably more than a couple of grand a day.  The two largest expense items for a National convention are venue and trophies, respectively, both of which are in the low five-figure range.

Now I must correct my own post--- if you divide the venue cost across 6 days: setup, 4 days of convention, and tear-down, it actually does compute to around a couple of grand a day.  I stand corrected.