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!
Generously supported by the Friends of the Canadian War Museum.
Special kickoff event on Friday night!
Activities - Saturday and Sunday
Activity
War Machines Weekend – Vehicle demonstrations and display
Admission: included
Activity
War Machines: Collector Displays — “Underwear to Headwear”
Admission: included
Talk
Tank Talks: Quick Chats, Deep History
Admission: included
Activity
Family Art Station: Creative fun during War Machines Weekend
Admission: included
Activity
Miniature Machines: Explore the world of scale models
Admission: included
Activity
War Machines Weekend on the Patio
Admission: price
Saturday evening
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.
