This February half term, York will once again become the epicentre of Viking history as the JORVIK Viking Festival returns for its 40th anniversary. Running from 17th to 23rd February, the festival promises five days of thrilling Norse-themed activities, including live history reenactments, hands-on combat, and lectures. Attendees can also look forward to a host of unique attractions, such as a brand-new Viking longship, a sword that never misses its target, and recreations of the world’s largest fossilised poo.
A Journey Through Viking History
For visitors of all ages, the JORVIK Viking Festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the past. From the smallest child to the fiercest warrior, there’s something for everyone. Gareth Henry from York Archaeology, the charity behind the festival, is determined to make the 40th edition a memorable one. “We’re marking the end of winter with a true Nordic celebration, offering everything from learning to fight like a Berserker to witnessing an army of warriors storm the streets,” says Gareth.
Living History Encampment: A Viking Experience
The heart of the festival is the free living history encampment on Parliament Street, where visitors can interact with re-enactors who will explain Viking life in the 10th century. Visitors will have the chance to handle replica armour and weapons while learning from experts who are eager to share their knowledge. “The re-enactors are brilliant explainers who bring Viking history to life,” Gareth adds. “It’s easy to spend hours chatting about what life was really like in Viking-era York.”
Major Festival Highlights
A key event during the festival is the March to Coppergate on Saturday, 22nd February, where over 200 Vikings will march from Dean’s Park, next to York Minster, to Coppergate. The parade is free to watch from multiple vantage points along the route. Once gathered at the Eye of York, the Vikings will engage in the Viking Games, an epic battle between rival factions that is sure to keep the audience on edge.
Evening Spectacular: A Norse Legend Reimagined
On the evenings of Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd February, the Eye of York will host the Evening Spectacular. This open-air theatre performance will tell a gripping Norse legend featuring a sword that can never miss its target. The dramatic retelling, complete with a powerful soundtrack and a fiery finale, is not to be missed.
Poo Week: A Fascinating Exhibit for All Ages
One of the festival’s quirky yet popular events will take place at DIG, the sister attraction to the JORVIK Viking Centre. Visitors can recreate their very own “Viking poo” during Poo Week, learning about the historical significance of human excrement and what it reveals about the past. With undigested seeds, bits of bone, and worms, this hands-on experience is sure to captivate young minds.
Citywide Fun with JORVIK Viking Centre’s Top Trumps
This year’s festival will also mark the release of the newest addition to the Top Trumps card game portfolio. A free city-wide trail will guide visitors to discover these Viking-themed cards, with packs available to purchase throughout the event. Children and teens can also meet the illustrator behind the designs, Katie Smith, at an illustration workshop.
A Winter Adventure at JORVIK Viking Centre
Finally, the festival is the last chance to experience A Winter Adventure at the JORVIK Viking Centre. Visitors will embark on a ride through a snow-covered Viking-age York, with interactive Vikings narrating stories of how their ancestors faced the harsh winter. Tickets for this experience are expected to sell out quickly, so be sure to book in advance.