Once Upon a Time the Liberated PdC

"Once Upon a Time the Liberated Pas-de-Calais": A Journey Through History

Every year in September, the Lampisterie Park in Haillicourt transforms into a vast World War II military camp. The association Véhicules Militaires d'Artois (VMartois) has been organizing this historical reenactment event dedicated to the Liberation of the Pas-de-Calais for over thirty-five editions, making it one of the largest gatherings of military vehicles in France.

A Life-Size Military Camp

Nearly 300 period military vehicles – jeeps, half-tracks, tanks, trucks, and ambulances – are gathered at the Lampisterie Park, forming an impressive military camp recreated with remarkable fidelity. More than 600 collectors from six European countries participate in this event, dressed in period attire, recreating the atmosphere of the Liberation in every detail.

The Grand Parade

The most spectacular moment of the event is the grand parade of military vehicles. This exceptional convoy travels 180 km through more than 40 municipalities in the Pas-de-Calais, from Haillicourt to Béthune, passing through numerous villages. Residents line the route to cheer on the passage of this moving historical procession.

Various Activities

Alongside the camp and the parade, the event offers a rich program of activities: a market for military items and souvenirs, concerts (about fifteen over the weekend), commemorative processions in the evening, and demonstrations. The entire site is designed for an immersive experience in the era of the Liberation.

Haillicourt and the Duty of Remembrance

Haillicourt, a town in the mining basin of the Pas-de-Calais, holds a special attachment to the duty of remembrance. The Lampisterie Park, a former mining site converted into a leisure area, symbolizes the transition between the industrial past and historical memory. The event helps transmit the history of the Liberation to younger generations.

A Free and Family-Friendly Event

Access to the Lampisterie Park and all activities is completely free. This commitment to accessibility, supported by VMartois volunteers, allows everyone – families, history enthusiasts, veterans – to participate in this moment of collective memory.