Jorvik Viking Festival

There's lots to see and do on this one. There's a train from Crossgates at 8.30am and 9.30am - train station has a supermarket next door with massive car park.

I suggest meeting at York Minster for 10.15am - lots of car parks around York but it is going to be busy.

Then short walk to first event:-

Event: Annual Strongest Viking Competition

Venue: St Sampson’s Square

Time: 11:00 - 12:00

Price: FREE

Description: Known for their prowess on the battlefield and ability to tame the seas, the strength of the Viking people was integral to their identity. But, in 2019, who is the strongest Viking of them all? Enjoy the drama, hilarity and spectacle of Vikings doing their utmost to win the coveted title of ‘Strongest Viking’. Axes will be balanced, logs will be lifted and fighting will ensue - the action will unfold on the St Sampson’s Square stage, and begins at 11am - don’t miss it!

Then back to Dean's Park (behind Minster) for the assembly of the Vikings - You can talk to - and photograph Vikings before the march as they gather in Dean Park (green space at the back of the Minster)(Noon to 1pm)

Event: March to Coppergate

Venue: York City Centre

Time: 13:30

Price: FREE

Description: As storm clouds gather, the Viking armies muster, brandishing their weapons and showing off their fighting skills. Get closer to the soldiers and get an idea of what it would have been like to be a warrior, 1000 years ago. Enjoy the drama and excitement as the armies set forth and once again march through the city of Jorvik.

You should follow the Vikings through York, or jump ahead on the route - please do not join the march. I suggest we hop ahead as time allows. Bewarned this does get rather packed.

Approx 2.00pm - Eye of York, next to Clifford's Tower

The Vikings continue marching to the Eye of York where they fight - you must not go onto the grass circle ie battle field, but can stand on the road that encircles it and record sound from there.

Battle practice *Unpublicised event* - daylight combat event with lots of warriors.

Next:-

Event: Annual Best Beard Competition

Venue: St Sampson’s Square

Time: 15.00-16.00

Price: Free

Description: Men, women and children welcome – we’re looking for the most glorious beard in York, whether it’s natural or homemade! In one of the most popular festival events, we’ll put those whiskers to the test and award the trophy for the Best Beard of 2019.

After that we're free to look around this:-

Event: Viking Encampment

Venue: Parliament Street

Time: 10:00 - 16:00

Price: FREE

Description: Join the hustle and bustle of Viking life at a special living history experience, right in the centre of the modern city. Discover how the Norsemen and women of the period lived, what they traded and what they wore. This is your chance to get up close and personal with the Vikings; ask them questions, pose for selfies and hear a saga or two from these fierce warriors turned traders.

Event: 10th Century Traders Markets

Venue: Merchant Adventurers’ Hall and York Stained Glass Centre

Time: 10.00-16.00

Price: £3/£2 concession/£8 family of four

Description: Transport yourself back in time with our authentic 10th century markets, hosting traders from far and wide who bring you hand-crafted weapons, jewellery, costumes, drinking ware and much more. Your ticket grants entry to both venues, for all three days of the markets!

Suggested End of the Day Final Drink here:-

Event: The Nine Realms Bar

Venue: St Sampson’s Square

Time: 17.30-11.00

Description: When the sun goes down, raise a glass to the Gods at our brand new festival bar.

With ale, wine, spirits and soft drinks stocked by some of York’s favourite establishments, this is the perfect way to relax after a day at the festival – and maybe tell some sagas of your own.