What’s on at the 2025 JORVIK Viking Festival in York? Everything from Battles to... Viking Poo!

If you’re looking for something a bit different this February half term (17–23 February 2025), how about hanging out with Vikings? Yep, the JORVIK Viking Festival is back in York, and it’s promising everything from epic battles to, well, fossilised Viking poo. It’s one of those rare festivals where you can watch warriors fight, make Viking socks, and learn about ancient diets all in one go. Sounds wild, right?

What makes the JORVIK Viking Festival so special?

This year’s Festival is kind of a big deal—it’s the 40th anniversary! According to Gareth Henry from York Archaeology, the folks behind the event, they’re pulling out all the stops. Expect the streets of York to be packed with over 200 Viking re-enactors, dramatic shows with flaming swords, and even a brand-new Viking longship.

Gareth puts it best:

“We’re celebrating the end of winter in true Nordic style—whether you want to fight like a Berserker or just watch the action, we’ve got something for everyone!”

Step into Viking life with a living history encampment

If you’ve ever wondered what life was like in 10th-century York, now’s your chance. Head to Parliament Street, where a free Viking village will pop up for the week. It’s not just for show—you can actually chat with re-enactors dressed as Norse warriors, blacksmiths, and traders. And yes, they’re more than happy to let you handle replica swords and helmets.

Gareth encourages everyone to dive in:

“Don’t just walk by—stop and ask questions. Our Vikings love talking about their crafts and life back then.”

Imagine asking a Viking what they ate for breakfast or how heavy their sword is... pretty cool, right?

The must-see events you don’t want to miss

Here are the highlights you’ll want to stick in your diary:

• The March to Coppergate (22 February): Over 200 Vikings marching through York, from Dean’s Park (right by York Minster) to Coppergate. It's free to watch, so find a good spot early.
• Viking Games at the Eye of York: Once the march ends, the Vikings get competitive. Think of it like the Olympics, but with swords.
• Evening Spectacular (21 & 22 February): An outdoor theatre show with a legendary sword that never misses. Fire, action, and drama—basically, Vikings on steroids.

Yes, there’s Viking poo... and kids can make their own!

If you thought history was boring, wait till you hear about Poo Week at DIG, the hands-on archaeology centre. One of the star exhibits at the JORVIK Viking Centre is the Lloyds Bank Coprolite—aka the largest fossilised Viking poo ever found. And during the Festival, kids can actually recreate their own poo (don’t worry, not real!) and learn about Viking diets. Spoiler: lots of seeds, bones, and even worms. Gross? Totally. But also fascinating.

New this year: Viking Top Trumps and snowy adventures

Fancy a game of Top Trumps with Viking warriors? The Festival is launching its own JORVIK Viking Centre Top Trumps card game. You can grab a pack during the Festival, join a free trail around the city, and even meet the illustrator, Katie Smith, at an art workshop.

And if that’s not enough, it’s your last chance to check out A Winter Adventure at the JORVIK Viking Centre. Imagine riding through Viking-age York, but covered in snow, while Vikings tell you how tough winters used to be. It’s like a time machine—just colder.

Ready to go Viking?

If this all sounds like your kind of half-term fun, head over to jorvikvikingfestival.co.uk to book tickets. Some events are already sold out, so don’t wait too long. Whether you’re bringing the kids or just embracing your inner Viking, York in February is the place to be.

Grab your sword (or, you know, just a warm coat) and get ready for a Viking adventure you won’t forget!