York Viking Festival 2026
Prepare Your Defences For The Viking Invasion

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viking march through the city of York

Updated on 25th January 2026

It is time to start checking your chain mail, sharpening your swords and strengthening your shields as another invasion of York is set to happen 1160 years after they first arrived! The Vikings are once again set to take over the city in February.

For seven days, Norse-influence will be spread across the city centre as Viking-enthusiasts from around the country and beyond descend on the city for Europe’s largest Viking Festival. Around 500 Viking re-enactors are expected to help residents and visitors for living history, crafts and combat within the city walls.

Event Highlights

  • The Battle for York (Saturday 21st Feb, 3:00 PM):
    This is the main "Battle Spectacular" at the Eye of York. It’s a choreographed combat performance telling the story of the struggle for control of 10th-century York.
  • Viking Games (Saturday 21st Feb, 11:30 AM):
    Held at the Eye of York, featuring tests of strength, skill, and wisdom between teams of Vikings. Perfect for families.
  • The March to Coppergate (Saturday 21st Feb, 2:15 PM):
    A free event where hundreds of Vikings parade through the city streets. Best viewing spots: St Helen’s Square and Parliament Street.
  • Berserker Camp (16th to 21st Feb)
    Get your little Vikings ready for battle at our Berserker Bootcamp! Led by seasoned warriors, kids will learn the art of combat with wooden swords, try their hand at axe-throwing, and train in the fearsome shield wall.
  • How To Train Your Dragon School – Poo Week (16th to 22nd Feb)
    It’s smelly, it’s squelchy, and it’s one of the highlights of the Festival calendar! Believe it or not, poo can tell us a lot about history. Bring the kids to DIG and discover why archaeologists are fascinated by this unexpected treasure.

Event Essentials

The viking march in York
vikings lined up with circular shields interlocked
Two vikings sitting in full dress next to a fire
childrens berserker camp at york viking festival
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