What eras and types of military vehicles are you looking for?
We are currently looking for military vehicles from conflicts spanning World War I through the Vietnam War. Vehicles from any major country during these conflicts are welcome. If you have something outside these specifics, please contact us first to confirm eligibility.
Are replica military vehicles allowed?
Yes, but they must be high-quality, historically accurate replicas. Please check with us first.
Does my vehicle need to be running?
No! While it is helpful if your vehicle runs for ease of positioning, it is not required. As long as it can be shifted into neutral and we can push it into place, you're good to go!
Do I have to pay anything to bring my vehicle?
No! Participation is free for you and one guest for each day you bring a vehicle.
Can I drop off my vehicle early or leave it after the event?
Yes! You can drop off your vehicle up to two days before the event or pick it up the day after. However, you must contact us first to arrange this so we can accommodate space.
Can I bring my vehicle on a trailer and park the trailer at the event?
Yes! We will have a designated trailer parking area where you can leave your trailer and civilian vehicle after unloading.
What time do I need to arrive with my vehicle on event days?
You may drop off your vehicle on Friday, May 2nd (please notify us if arriving on Friday). On event days, arrival begins at 7:00 AM but you must arrive by 8:30 AM to be positioned before doors open at 9:00 AM. If you arrive after 8:30 AM, you may be denied entry.
When can I load up my vehicle and leave the event?
The event officially ends at 5:00 PM, but crowds typically start thinning a little earlier, at which point you may begin packing up. However, you must wait for the vehicle coordinator, Britt Dietz, to give you the go-ahead before leaving. We also invite you to enjoy the Sherman Tank demonstration, which marks the end of each day.
Can I leave my vehicle overnight at the museum?
Yes! If your vehicle is parked inside the museum, it will be safe and secure overnight. If your vehicle is parked in the encampment area, there will be reenactors staying there Friday through Sunday's event and will keep an eye on vehicles.
What if I need to leave early with my vehicle?
Early departures are only allowed in emergencies. You must speak to the vehicle coordinator, Britt Dietz, or a staff member who can contact him via radio. All early exits require staff approval and an escort for guest safety, no exceptions. Unapproved early departures may result in exclusion from future events.
Do I need to stay with my vehicle all day?
No! You are free to explore the event like any other guest. However, if you enjoy chatting with visitors about your vehicle, feel free to set up a chair nearby! The public loves hearing about these amazing historic machines.
I don't want people sitting in my vehicle. Are there any measures to prevent that?
Yes! We provide brightly colored 'DO NOT ENTER' signs upon request. Additionally, roaming security will monitor unauthorized access. We also offer a designated “photo Jeep” where visitors can climb in for pictures, which helps keep guests off other vehicles.
If you do want to allow guests into your vehicle, we ask that you stay nearby while they are inside.
Can I drive my military vehicle around the event?
No, vehicles must remain parked during event hours for the safety of our guests.
Can I take a photo of my vehicle with a warbird?
Yes! We will have special photo opportunities where vehicles can be posed with warbirds. If you have a specific request, notify vehicle coordinator Britt Dietz, and we'll do our best to accommodate.
Can I have a small display near my vehicle?
Yes! The public loves displays related to your vehicle or its historical context. Informational signs, artifacts, and related items are highly encouraged!
Is there a gas/diesel station nearby?
Yes, there is an ARCO station on the corner of Euclid and Kimball Ave on the east corner of the airport.
What eras of reenacting are you looking for?
We welcome reenactors from World War I through the Vietnam War, representing any major country involved in these conflicts. Cosplay-style uniforms are not allowed - please wear authentic or reproduction uniforms to maintain historical accuracy.
Can my club bring multiple people and displays?
Absolutely! The more, the merrier! We've had small to large groups and displays that guests love. You want to bring a World War 2 artillery canon? Why not?! Does your group have 20 people? Sign them up!
Does everyone in my group need to sign up?
No, only the group leader needs to register, but we do need a headcount for planning purposes. If your numbers change, just let us know!
I'm an individual reenactor. Can I still sign up?
Yes! Many individuals join the encampment, and you might even connect with a group during the event.
Do I have to pay anything to participate or stay in the encampment?
No! It's completely free to participate and stay overnight in the encampment.
Do I have to have a vintage military tent, or can I bring a modern tent?
Modern tents are allowed only for overnight use and must be removed before the event starts each morning. During the event, only period-appropriate tents and equipment may remain visible in the encampment.
When can I start setting up my tent/display?
Set-up begins at 11:00 AM on Friday, May 2nd and continues until 8:30 PM. If you need an earlier time, please contact us to arrange it.
What time do I need to arrive on event days, and when can I leave?
You may arrive as early as 6:30 AM but must be set up by 8:00 AM. If you arrive after 8:30 AM, you may be denied entry for safety reasons as doors open to the guests at 9:00 AM.
Do I have to be in the camp, and can I get a table for my display?
No, you do not need to be in the camp as a reenactor. In fact, if you would like a shaded area you can set up your display on the museum grounds inside one of the hangars, we can arrange that for you.
As for table requests, we can provide some tables to those who display inside the hangars, but we cannot provide tables out to the encampment area.
Can I have a military vehicle with my display?
Yes, but please keep it limited to what is essential for your display. Additional military vehicles should be parked in the designated vehicle display area to help fill out our vehicle showcase.
Can I stay overnight in the camp?
Yes! Overnight camping is allowed on Friday, May 2nd, and Saturday, May 3rd. However, the camp must be torn down on Sunday evening after the event.
How much space can I have in the encampment?
We ask that individuals keep their space within 20x20 feet, including tents, displays, and vehicles. If you need more space (especially for a group), please note it in the sign-up form so we can plan accordingly. We will try our best to accommodate everyone's size preference, but in the event of overcrowding and allowing a path for guests to walk through the camp, we may have to reduce some spaces.
Can we have campfires or cook at our encampment?
No open fires, but period-correct stoves or grills may be allowed with prior approval.
Do I need to be in uniform both days?
Yes. To enter for free and participate, you must be in uniform or period-appropriate attire throughout the event.
What is the policy on weapons?
Only inert weapons are allowed.
Firearms must be permanently disabled and/or stored securely out of public reach.
No live or blank ammunition is allowed—NO EXCEPTIONS.
Blades must remain sheathed or secured from public access.
All weapons are subject to inspection. Any inappropriate or unsafe weapons will be removed.
Anyone sneaking in live ammunition will be immediately removed from the event.
If you witness improper weapon handling, report it to staff immediately.
Will there be restrooms in the encampment?
Yes! Porta-potties will be available near the encampment for overnight guests.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
