In Saxony and Germany, there are countless associations with numerous members devoted to railways and model railways. The BDEF and the Sächsische Modellbahner Vereinigung e.V. (SMV, Saxon Railway Modellers’ Association) support the work of these associations as umbrella associations, also promoting these rewarding hobbies in the public.
Of course, we are on site together when an important fair or exhibition takes place. In Saxony, you can find us at the modell-hobby-spiel fair in Leipzig as well as at various fairs in Dresden, Chemnitz or Löbau. In addition, we also attend all major model-making and model railway fairs and exhibitions in other federal states, such as the Faszination Modellbahn exhibition in Mannheim, the INTERMODELLBAU exhibition in Dortmund, or the International Model Railway Exhibition (IMA) and Märklin Days Event held in Göppingen. Or, visit us at the Faszination Modellbau in Friedrichshafen or the IMA in Köln. Another important aspect of our work that lies close to our hearts is intensive youth work. It takes place at our associations and clubs. Thus, at most trade fairs and exhibitions, we give interested junior hobbyists the opportunity of attending our European Junior College, where they can explore many topics relating to the hobby of railway modelling and railways.
Our member associations act as our regional ambassadors – probably there even is one quite near to your place. For an overview of our associations and clubs (including information on contact persons and their events), please visit us at www.bdef.de and www.smvaktuell.de. We jointly represent approximately 14,000 railway and model railway enthusiasts as our members. We cooperate with more than 400 affiliated associations as supporting members comprising the major manufacturers of model railways, material and accessories; as well as with more than 100 individual members. The BDEF is thus the largest association of railway enthusiasts in Europe.
Every year, starting on Ascension Day, the BDEF holds its Association’s Day – including the meeting of delegates. The eventful accompanying programme is one of the most extensive railway festivals featuring interesting, often unique speeches and presentations. Visitors can also take an exciting short or longer train ride aimed at showing the traffic situation at the venue and interesting places in the surroundings. These trips are open to non-members also.
Of course, the BDEF and SMV publish their work in the BDEF-Jahrbuch (yearbook) and the BDEF-Report (newsletter).
