Now in its fourth year, the Heysham Viking Festival will be taking place between the 20th and 21st July from 10.30am. This phenomenally popular event attracts hordes of Viking lovers from around the Morecambe Bay area and beyond, with special talks, re-enactments and other fun-filled activities.
Kindly sponsored by The Royal in Heysham village, the Viking Festival is a chance for history lovers of all ages to come together and enjoy a truly unique family day out. A full timetable of events will be published shortly, giving more details on the history tours, talks, guided walks and children’s activities which will be taking place over the course of the two days.
There will also be a weapons display and various battle re-enactments, all brought to you by an enthusiastic team of Viking reenactors from across the UK. In addition to the educational programme and events, there will also be a range of craft and food stalls and a fun fair, providing entertainment for big kids and little kids alike.
Speaking ahead of the Heysham Viking Festival, its lead organiser, Peter Whaley, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to spend a day out with the family and really get to grips with our Viking heritage. Last year’s event was our most successful yet, but we’re confident that the programme we’ve put together this year will top it.
“There are some fantastic guest speakers set to attend and a small army of Viking enthusiasts ready to bring the Vikings back to life. We have re-enactments, weapon displays and guided walking tours around our living history encampment, as well as hearty food and all the fun of the fair. We’re hoping for a record turnout and we’re sure it will be a great experience for all. Who doesn’t love the Vikings, after all?”
The North West of England has a fascinating and bloody Viking history, when it was settled in the 10th century. The events planned over the course of the festival weekend will explore that past in much more detail, giving a real insight into what life was like under Viking rule.
As well as the festival, visitors to Heysham village over the course of the weekend can enjoy the range of local cafes and small businesses which will be welcoming the crowds. Organisers say they welcome any donations visitors can make towards the running of the event, ensuring they can lay on future Viking Festivals in the coming years.
