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Meaux Recreates the Battle of the Marne with Historical Reenactment

cultural-heritage · 2026-09-04

In Meaux, the largest historical reenactment weekend in Île-de-France takes place, showcasing the Battle of the Marne. At the Museum of the Great War, attendees can see three hundred uniforms, a moving tank, horses, and a 1914 Renault taxi. Approximately three hundred reenactors from twenty-seven different associations will execute maneuvers, simulate a gas attack, and march through the city. A replica of the Saint-Chamond tank, La Madelon, will also be featured. Scheduled for Saturday, September 5, and Sunday, September 6, from 9:30 to 18:00, tickets cost 7 € for one day, 10 € for both days, and are free for children under 12, with an additional 3 € for trench access. Online ticket purchases are advised, as parking is unavailable, but a free shuttle service will operate.

Key facts

  • The reenactment takes place in Meaux, France, on September 5-6.
  • The event is the largest historical reenactment weekend in Île-de-France.
  • Three hundred uniforms, a tank, horses, and a 1914 taxi are featured.
  • The Renault Foundation lends a 1914 taxi for the event.
  • Nearly 300 reenactors from 27 associations and several countries participate.
  • The Saint-Chamond tank La Madelon is a rolling replica by Mémoire de Poilus.
  • The museum houses 50,000 pieces collected over 45 years by historian Jean-Pierre Verney.
  • Charles Péguy fell near Meaux in the first days of the offensive.

Entities

Artists

  • Charles Péguy
  • Jean-Pierre Verney

Institutions

  • Musée de la Grande Guerre
  • Fondation Renault
  • Fer de Lance
  • Mémoire de Poilus

Locations

  • Meaux
  • France
  • Île-de-France
  • Rue Lazare Ponticelli
  • Champ de Foire
  • Gare de Meaux
  • Gare de l'Est

Sources