About Birka Historical Tattoo Fest
Viking market at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Birka – tattooing, trade and sacrifice
From 25 to 28 June 2026, the Birka Historical Tattoo Fest will be held at Birka Viking Town on Björkö in Lake Mälaren – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological sites in the Nordic region. Birka, founded around 750 and Scandinavia's first city, was the centre of trade between the West and the East during the Viking Age.
This is a unique event that combines Viking culture with the historical tradition of tattooing and body decoration. Craftsmen demonstrate authentic Viking techniques in smithing, leatherwork, weaving and archery. Archaeologists and guides convey the history of the site, and re-enactors portray life in the Viking Age trading centre. Blot ceremonies, saga storytelling and Viking Age music recreate the Nordic spirit in its original setting.
Open daily from 10:00 to 18:00. Birka can be reached by boat from Stockholm or by ferry from Ekerö.
Address: Björkö, Birka Vikingastaden, 17893 Ekerö.
Information: birkavikingastaden.se
