The Great War Museum in Meaux is organizing its traditional historical reenactment weekend on September 5 and 6, 2026, the largest event in Île-de-France dedicated to the First World War, bringing together more than 300 enthusiasts from all over Europe in period costumes.
A living bivouac to tell the story of soldiers' daily lives
For two days, the museum grounds are transformed into a vast encampment where visitors can interact directly with reenactors, who portray French, German, and American soldiers, as well as roles less familiar to the general public, such as military pigeon handlers, cooks, and nurses. The event makes a point of shedding light on the little-known daily life behind the front lines as well as that of the combatants.
Highlights announced for this year include the activation of the Saint-Chamond tank, an iconic relic of mechanized warfare, as well as the exceptional presence of taxis from the Marne, one of which is on loan from the Renault Foundation, and equestrian demonstrations provided by the Fer de Lance association.
Two free parades in the streets of Meaux
The weekend revolves around two large free parades: on Saturday in the city center of Meaux, on Sunday in the Beauval district, allowing a wider public to see the troops in period dress without having to enter the museum grounds.
Considered the largest museum in Europe dedicated to the First World War, the establishment, born from the personal collection assembled by history enthusiast Jean-Pierre Verney, also normally offers a life-size reconstruction of trenches and military camps within its permanent exhibition.
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