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War Machines Weekend
August 9–10, 2025

Free with general admission

Watch and hear history come alive as powerful military vehicles from the Second World War rumble into action on our demo track behind the Museum.

Kids and adults alike can get up close to the vehicles, chat with our friendly staff and volunteers, and learn how these machines worked—and why they mattered. There’s plenty to explore for curious minds of all ages!

These incredible machines—restored with care by our expert team—once rolled across battlefields and through tough terrain, helping shape the world we live in today.

Art activities, cool collector displays, tasty eats, live riverside tunes, and tank-themed goodies in the boutique. Plus, tons to explore in the Museum—don’t miss it!

Spend the day together learning, exploring, and making memories!

Special kickoff event on Friday night!

A tank

War Machines Pub Night

Aug. 8, 2025

Price: Starting from $35

Saturday evening

Band members

Outdoor music, dinner and a screening

Aug. 9, 2025

Price: $12–$22

Iron Will

Vehicles from the Canadian War Museum

“Iron Will” is a video series that explores the history of vehicles in our military technology collection.

Video

Iron Will – 1914 Armoured Autocar

The armoured cars had about 5mm-thick plate armour, which meant it was only bulletproof to about 100 yards. For the centenary of the First World War, the Museum returned it to operating condition.

Video

Iron Will – The Great Eastern Ramp

This is one of the largest objects currently on display in the LeBreton Gallery. We’re very lucky to have it within the collection because it is the only one in existence.

Video

Iron Will – FWD Truck

The FWD Truck was an important vehicle widely used during the First World War. It took a number of years for us to assemble the truck to the operating condition you see here.

Video

Iron Will – The Tracked Jeep

This is a prototype vehicle that was intended to be used for light reconnaissance. This vehicle was never used in the war. We acquired it from the owner who was using it in movies.

Video

Iron Will – M1917 Six-Ton Tank

The M1917 Six-Ton Tank was used to train Canadian soldiers at the onset of the Second World War.

Video

Iron Will – C15 Armoured Ambulance

There weren't a lot of armoured ambulances in the Second World War. This model was used by the Medical Corps until about 1946, when it was phased out.

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A fighter jet on display in the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa.