As 2026 marks 112 years since the start of World War I and 12 years since the opening of the Russia in the Great War museum at the Martial Chamber of Tsarskoe Selo, the 4th commemorative historical festival The Great War 1914-18 is held near the Martial Chamber during the weekend of 1 and 2 August, 11am to 5pm (free entry).

The festival gives a chance to see some authentic World War I machinery and equipment, as well as authentic and reconstructed uniforms, accessories and everyday objects used by servicemen of the past.

Over two hundred historical re-enactors from World War One societies of St Petersburg and Moscow and the Republic of Belarus will demonstrate theirs equestrian skills and trick riding, and re-enact a battle commemorating the 110th anniversary of the Brusilov offensive of June–September 1916. Also known as the Battle of Galicia-Volhynia, the Brusilov offensive was among the most lethal in military history and led to the decreased combat effectiveness of Austro-Hungarian troops, therefore the Triple Entente's greatest victory and the Russian Empire's greatest feat of arms during World War I.

The Martial Chamber will offer guided tours every half hour (with museum tickets) from 11.30am to 5pm, as well as workshops, quests, games and other activities for children (some for adults too), which will take place at the Imperial Farm likewise. The latter will also offer movies on World War I in the open air.

The Great War 1914-18 festival programme

Saturday 1 August

11am-5pm: Interactive Installation Grounds, Exhibitions and Historical Camps around Martial Chamber
11.30am-5pm: Guided tours of Martial Chamber (ticketed)
12pm-4pm: Interactive programmes for children at Martial Chamber and Imperial Farm
1pm: Opening of the festival near the entrance to Martial Chamber
1.30pm: Equestrian skills and trick riding showcase at Horse Riding Ground of Imperial Farm
2.30pm-4.30pm: 'Retro Mail' workshop at Imperial Farm
3.30pm: Outdoor movies about WWI at Imperial Farm
4pm: WWI battle re-enactment on a field near Pensioners' Stable in Alexander Park

Sunday 2 August

11am-2pm: Interactive Installation Grounds, Exhibitions and Historical Camps around Martial Chamber
11am-4pm: Interactive programmes for children at Martial Chamber and Imperial Farm
11.30am-5pm: Guided tours of Martial Chamber (ticketed)
1pm: Opening of the festival's 2nd day near the entrance to Martial Chamber
2pm-4pm: A Triple Entente and Triple Alliance battle re-enactment on a field near Pensioners' Stable in Alexander Park