JORVIK Viking Festival in York, UK

About JORVIK Viking Festival

When you hear the word ‘Viking’ you generally think of Scandinavia, but across the waters in the UK, York also has a rich Norse heritage.

And this is what is commemorated at this annual week-long event in the ancient city of York.

It’s one of the most exciting and atmospheric historical festivals of its kind.

Steeped in history, the festival explores the impact the Viking invasion had on Anglo-Saxon England.

Eric Bloodaxe was the last Viking King in York and his reign is the inspiration behind this exciting program of events.

When the area was under Viking rule, the ‘Jolablot’ celebration, marking the end of winter and coming of spring, was held each February.

JORVIK Viking Festival is the largest of its kind in Europe.

Events range from fascinating walks and talks, living history encampments, and dramatic combat performances.

Hear Norse sagas and stories, dress like a Viking, meet experts, pick up a sword, learn some Viking-age crafts, try your hand at archery, and see the magnificent birds of prey in full flight.

Flex your muscles at the annual Strongest Viking competition.

Or make a beard and see if you can take away the honors in the Best Beard competition – it’s open to all ages and sexes.

Feast at a Viking banquet on Friday evening.

The jam-packed week culminates in a spectacular finale featuring the return of the Great Viking Army where you can watch the Anglo-Saxons lock swords with the Viking invaders.