About Jorvik Viking Festival York
JORVIK Viking Festival – Europe’s largest Viking festival returns to York
From 16 to 22 February 2026, the historic city of York is once again taken over by the Norse world as the JORVIK Viking Festival returns for its 41st edition. Organised by York Archaeology, Europe’s largest Viking festival transforms the city’s streets and medieval venues into a living, breathing 10th-century world.
Around 500 Viking re-enactors from across the UK and beyond descend on York to welcome nearly 50,000 visitors. The free-to-access living history encampment in Parliament Street runs daily, with wood turners, metalworkers, weapon demonstrations and storytellers around an open fire. Premium ticketed events include a lavish Viking Feast in the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall and immersive theatrical experiences at Barley Hall. The festival culminates on Saturday 21 February with the famous March to Coppergate – hundreds of costumed warriors parading through the city before combat at the Eye of York.
The festival has been named Best Family Festival at the Little Viking Awards three years running. Workshops for children – including Berserker Bootcamp, axe-throwing and the Kids Barbaric Battle – make it ideal for families during February half-term.
Address: Coppergate, York, YO1 9WT.
Tickets & programme: jorvikvikingfestival.co.uk
