About Vadstena Medieval Days
Vadstena Medieval Days
Vadstena Castle is situated on the shores of Lake Vättern and is one of Sweden’s most important medieval fortifications. On 5 and 6 July 2026, this impressive castle site will be filled with dozens of medieval re-enactors presenting trade, crafts, music and everyday life from this era.
The castle itself exemplifies the military architecture of the Swedish Empire, with its large bastions and well-designed defences. When the Medieval Days take place, this provides the perfect setting to understand how both defence and trade functioned around such a strategic point on the shores of Lake Vättern.
The festival encompasses everything from traditional cooking to weapon demonstrations. Archers demonstrate their marksmanship, knights are presented in full armour, and merchants showcase their wares to visitors from the region.
Children have the opportunity to try out many activities for themselves – from learning to write with a quill pen to trying their hand at simple craft techniques. This interactive element makes the festival particularly popular among families from Östergötland and the surrounding areas.
Music groups performed both religious music and secular entertainment from the period, creating an authentic auditory backdrop for the day. Vadstena Medieval Days has established itself as a major cultural event in Östergötland, with admission costing 130 kronor for adults. The castle’s history from the 16th century to the present day also offers visitors the chance to learn about this important fortification over several centuries.
