31st
14th to 22nd February 2015
PROGRAMME
Travel with First TransPennine Express to JORVIK Viking Festival and get an EXCLUSIVE 10% discount for selected events!* Simply purchase your train tickets to York at your local staffed ticket office or online at tpexpress.co.uk and present on the day. *T&C: Legendary Viking Combat Area Performances (Mon - Fri); Have-a-Go Sword Fighting for Children (Mon - Sun); and Festival Walking Tour (when available) For full T&Cs please visit www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk/tpterms
Tickets can be booked online or by calling the festival box office on 01904 615505. Lines open Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat-Sun 10am - 2pm. Keep up to date on all the latest news from JORVIK Viking Festival by joining our online mailing list:
www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk
Events correct at time of press. The organisers reserve the right to alter or withdraw events.
With thanks to our festival partners.
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JORVIK Viking Festival is managed by York Archaeological Trust a registered charity in England & Wales (No. 509060) and Scotland (SCO42846).
Join us for a Brave New Viking World... #JORVIKVikingFest
Recognised as the largest event of its kind in Europe, the 31st JORVIK Viking Festival is a city-wide celebration of York’s Norse heritage. Ragnarok, the doomsday of the Norse Gods, took place in York in February 2014. Following this cataclysmic clash of titans we have all woken up in a Brave New Viking World - and the Vikings of JORVIK are looking forward to welcoming you back to their city in 2015!
Taking our inspiration from Viking firsts, you will find over 100 Norse themed events and activities across nine days during February half term; including sword fighting workshops, dramatic combat performances, crafting, music & archaeological expert sessions as well as lectures and tours all leading up to our spectacular finale; ‘The Creation’ according to Norse myth.
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Festival Venues 8
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1 Barley Hall 2 Bedern Hall 3 Clifford’s Tower 4 Conlans Bistro 5 Dean’s Park 6 DIG 7 Explore Acomb Library
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Explore Clifton Library Explore York Learning Centre Eye of York Memorial Gardens Merchant Adventurers’ Hall Merchant Taylors’ Hall Micklegate Bar
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Parliament Street St Helen’s Church St Sampson’s Square York Guildhall York Mansion House York Minster Yorkshire Museum
Community & Education Projects at JORVIK Viking Festival 2015 Engagement with the community through offering unique and entertaining educational experiences is at the heart of York Archaeological Trust. This year we have worked in partnership with a number of groups and organisations on projects relating to the Vikings, the results of which you can explore throughout the 31st JORVIK Viking Festival:
Converge Soundscape Members of Converge, York St John University’s arts education partnership with local mental health service providers, have worked with community musicians Matt Dawson and Chris Bartram to create a special soundscape for the Viking Festival. The Vikings’ Brave New World is re-imagined through an exciting blend of music, sounds and text devised by the group. Choral contributions to the soundscape are provided by Communitas, the Converge community choir. The soundscape will be available to experience at Barley Hall throughout the Festival. 10:00 - 17:00 daily, normal admission prices apply.
Reimagining Sagas Working with Strensall Library, and with Robert Wilkinson and Lord Deramore schools we’ve produced a brand new Viking saga and accompanying artwork for the 2015 Viking Festival. The exciting results will be on display at the Craft & Play the Viking Way! marquee in St Sampsons Square throughout the duration of this event.
BLOODAXE BOOK CHALLENGE For the third year running we have run this winter book challenge with Explore York Library Service, encouraging children to read throughout the school winter holiday period, collecting bookmarks and stickers for each book they read, and offering the opportunity to meet a well known children’s author at the Festival. For more information please visit www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk/bloodaxe
We’ve listed all the events taking place during the 31st JORVIK Viking Festival to help you plan your visit with ease. Unless otherwise stated any events marked pre-booking advised should be booked through our dedicated festival reservation team, the contact details of which can be found at the bottom of every page.
SATURDAY 14TH FEBRUARY Central Camp
10:00 - 16:00 (storytelling 11:00, 13:00, 15:00) | Parliament Street FREE The Vikings have returned to York and set up camp like they did over 1,000 years ago! Visit their new central encampment, featuring a Viking longship kitted out for war and learn about life at sea and on dry land. Plus there is a chance to hear sagas from Norse myths and legends in our storytelling tent, have a go at fun games of the period and meet the armourers to find out about Norse weapons and warfare. You can try the armour on yourself and meet the cunning woman prescribing cures for aches, pains and war wounds!
Viking Steading
10:00 – 16:00 | Central Camp, Parliament Street | FREE An exciting new addition to our opening weekend! Visit our Central Camp Steading and find out about the animals Vikings kept. There will be a plethora of livestock; including sheep, pigs, a pony and a calf as well as plenty of poultry; geese, ducks and chickens. Our resident experts will be on hand to answer your questions and you’ll have the opportunity to pet some of the animals too.
Eye of York Encampment
10:00 – 16:00 (Skirmishes 12:00, 14:00) | Eye of York | FREE Continue your journey into Viking-era life in action at the Eye of York, in the shadow of Clifford’s Tower, where the local Saxons reside. Visit and learn all about the lives of these warrior-farmers as they prepare for clashes with the nearby Viking encampment!
Kid’s Film Club: Asterix & The Vikings
11:00 | DIG £3.50 per person, children must be accompanied by an adult A fun animated children’s film from the classic Asterix & Obelix story books - fast becoming a classic for kids and a sure-fire winner for this year’s festival! Pre-booking advised. Price includes fruit squash drink & haribo mini pack for each child.
Ultimate Viking Banquet: The Wedding Celebration!
19:00 | Merchant Taylors’ Hall, York | £65 per person Join us for an absolutely unforgettable experience in the atmospheric setting of York’s Merchant Taylors Hall. You’ll be greeted by torchlit Viking guard and enjoy a drink of mead before joining the celebrations of the wedding of the survivors of Ragnarok - Lif & Lifthrasir - as they feast and make merry with their guests. Complete with an unruly father of the bride, a rather outspoken best man and some errant bridesmaids, this is sure to be an eventful evening! This is a truly unique Festival experience; hosted by the Vikings of JORVIK and accompanied by wonderful musical entertainment, a sumptuous 3 course banquet and of course wine flowing to accompany your meal. Price includes all refreshments & drinks with your meal. There is a cash bar available thereafter. Due to the popularity of this event, pre-booking is essential. This is a fundraising event for York Archaeological Trust.
SUNDAY 15TH FEBRUARY Central Camp
10:00 - 16:00 (storytelling 11:00, 13:00, 15:00) | Parliament Street FREE Please see listing from Saturday 14th February for details.
Viking Steading
10:00 – 16:00 | Central Camp, Parliament Street | FREE Please see listing from Saturday 14th February for details.
Eye of York Encampment
10:00 – 16:00 (Skirmishes 12:00, 14:00) | Eye of York | FREE Please see listing from Saturday 14th February for details.
Festival Coach Tour: Vikings in the Tees Valley
09:00 - 16:30 | Departs Memorial Gardens coach stop off Leeman Road | £15 per person Join Dr David Petts, Lecturer in the Archaeology of Northern England, Durham University, and York Archaeological Trust’s Dr Chris Tuckley, as they take you on a thought-provoking coach journey to several historic sites including churches and amazing examples of Vikingera sculpture as they explore evidence of Norse settlement in the Tees Valley. Sturdy footwear and outdoor clothing recommended: please be prepared for short walks across uneven terrain. There will be a lunch break at Barnard Castle and participants are welcome to bring their own lunch or purchase on site. Pre-booking essential.
Festival Folk at Barley Hall: Ray Cooper
19:00 | Barley Hall | £14 adult, £12 conc We are pleased to announce that legendary folk musician and singer songwriter Ray Cooper will be returning to the atmospheric candlelit setting of Barley Hall with music from his latest album Palace of Tears. David Kidman of fRoots recently said of the album that it is ‘’a mighty sounding record, one which audibly means business from the outset, rugged and bold in character, intent and delivery’’ Ray’s material is influenced both by his Scottish heritage and his adopted homeland of Sweden. Past performances have been a sell out success, so book your tickets early for this fantastic intimate evening event. Pre-booking essential. This is a fundraising event for York Archaeological Trust.
MONDAY 16TH FEBRUARY Central Camp
10:00 - 16:00 (storytelling 11:00, 13:00, 15:00) | Parliament Street FREE Please see listing from Saturday 14th February for details.
Meet the Experts: Hidden Treasures
10:00 - 12:00 & 13:00 - 15:00 | Barley Hall Normal Admission Prices Apply Join experts from York Archaeological Trust for a look at some of the fascinating artefacts which show Viking innovations and technological advances. This is your chance to get up close and ask your questions to real archaeologists!
Little Diggers: Visiting Vikings
10:00 - 11:00 | DIG £3 per child (includes one accompanying adult) The Vikings are invading DIG for the whole week and you get to meet them! Come along for a special story and play session, aimed at children aged 2-5, and help our warriors dig for lost Viking finds and rummage through a Viking loot bag! Are you brave enough to join them on their next adventure?
Craft & Play the Viking Way!
10:30 – 16:00 | St Sampsons Square Marquee FREE (small charge for some activities) Try your hand at a range of fun and historical crafts, games, competitions and activities in our marquee dedicated to all things creative! Have a go at making a Viking pot, try out willow weaving, beading, braiding and rune stamping; DIG for Viking treasure; lend a hand to build a Viking shelter; learn how to play Hnefatafl; design and make a festival badge or tee shirt, plus much more! To pre-book events please call 01904 615505 or visit www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk/tickets
Have-a-go Sword Combat
10:30, 11:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30 | Merchant Adventurers’ Hall £3 per child A chance for younger Vikings to get a taste of sword fighting – and prepare for the first battle of the Brave New Viking World! Instructed by Viking warriors, combatants are sure to enjoy this fun workshop of battle skills. This event always proves popular, so pre-booking is advised.
Viking Warrior Challenge for Children
12:00 – 16:00 | DIG | Normal admission prices apply Test your strength and dexterity with a series of Viking-themed games and challenges – the overall winner at the end of the week will receive a prize pack of goodies! Watch out for cameo appearances through the week from strongmen appearing at the Brawl at the Guildhall on Saturday 21st!
Legendary Combat Arena: Fire Vs Ice!
12:00, 13:30, 15:00 | York Guildhall | £3 Adult, £2 Conc. Our fast-paced and action-packed show for all the family sees our storytellers take you back to the beginning, to the creation of of Norse life as we know it. How will the Icy lands of Niflheim fare against the might and power of Muspelheim, the land of fire? What happens next? We promise to fill in the Ginnungagap! Pre-booking advised.
Viking Voices: The Sword of Amleth with Vincent Atherton
14:00 | York Mansion House | £4 Adult, £3 Conc The Sword of Amleth follows the fortunes of a King named Ragnald, who became King of both York and Dublin, told through the eyes of the fictional Amleth. The story follows the movement of the Hiberno-Norse and their interaction with the Danelaw and Mercia in the period from their expulsion from Dublin in AD 902 up to their return in AD 917, with much of the action taking place in the Wirral, the Ribble and York, culminating in the war of AD 910 with the battle of Tettenhall near Wolverhampton. Author Vincent Atherton will be discussing his book, how he endeavours to keep fact and fiction apart and will give the opportunity to ask questions before signing books, available to purchase at the event. Pre-booking advised.
Festival Walking Tour
13:00 | Departs Micklegate Bar | £4 Adult, £3 Conc Take a walk along the ancient city walls of York and see how the history of York is the history of Britain. This guided tour takes you along Roman foundations, Viking borders and Civil War defences right through to Georgian destruction and Victorian promenades.
Please dress accordingly for the weather and be prepared to walk long distances and up steps as you follow York’s fascinating history. Walk lasts approx 1 hour. Pre-booking advised.
this raucous session of fun and festivity! See what Viking parties would have been like, and join in with the songs and games of old. Come along to sing, bash an instrument or try your hand with Viking games and toys!
Festival Folk at Barley Hall: Ruth Keggin
Craft & Play the Viking Way!
19:00 | Barley Hall | £14 adult, £12 conc We are delighted that Ruth Keggin, Manx Gaelic singer, and her trio David Pearce - guitar; Vanessa Hutchinson - double bass) will be performing an intimate concert featuring songs from her acclaimed debut solo album Sheear at Barley Hall for this year’s Festival. With ringing endorsement from BBC Radio 3’s Mary Ann Kennedy, who said of the album “Ruth Keggin is the pure and passionate Gaelic voice of the Manx musical renaissance. Sheear is a thing of beauty which makes the circle of British folk music tradition whole.” This is sure to be a fantastic addition to this year’s programme so book early to avoid disappointment. Pre-booking essential. This is a fundraising event for York Archaeological Trust.
TUESDAY 17
TH
FEBRUARY
Central Camp
10:00 - 16:00 (storytelling 11:00, 13:00, 15:00) | Parliament Street FREE Please see listing from Saturday 14th February for details.
Meet the Experts: Conserving Our Past
10:00 - 12:00 & 13:00 - 15:00 | Barley Hall Normal Admission Prices Apply Experts from the Conservation Team at York Archaeological Trust (YAT) will be explaining some of the techniques used to investigate and stabilise archaeological objects, getting as much information on their stories as possible, and making them ready to be displayed. With opportunities to ask your questions, see amazing finds from the YAT collections and observe the techniques used to preserve these ancient artefacts, this is a rare opportunity not to be missed!
Poo Day!
10:00 - 12:00 & 13:00 - 15:00 | Barley Hall | Normal Admission Prices Apply Visit Barley Hall to learn about the dirtier side of archaeology! Have a go at making your very own replica historic poo and discover how poo is used to solve ancient mysteries.
Little Diggers: Norse Songs & Games
10:00 - 11:00 | DIG £3 per child (includes one accompanying adult) We’ll be making lots of music at DIG during the Viking Festival with
10:30 – 16:00 | St Sampson’s Square Marquee FREE (small charge for some activities) Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Have-a-go Sword Combat
10:30, 11:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30 | Merchant Adventurers’ Hall £3 per child Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Viking Warrior Challenge for Children
12:00 – 16:00 | DIG | Normal admission prices apply Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Legendary Combat Arena: The Mighty Odin & Ymir the Giant
12:00, 13:30, 15:00 | York Guildhall | £3 Adult, £2 Conc. Our second creation story continues the only way we know how, with Stilts and SWORDS!! Have you ever wondered how the clouds, the rivers and the mountains were formed? According to the Vikings it all started with a mighty battle of course! Come along to see who will triumph; the Aesir or the Jotuns, in this truly mythical combat performance. Pre-booking advised.
Festival Walking Tour
13:00 | Departs Micklegate Bar | £4 Adult, £3 Conc Please see listing for Monday 16th February for details.
Viking Yorkshire with Matthew Townend
14:00 | York Mansion House | £4 Adult, £3 Conc In 866, the city of York was captured by a ‘Great Army’ of Viking warriors. Ten years later, in the words of the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, the army’s leader ‘shared out the land of the Northumbrians, and they proceeded to plough and to support themselves’. Matthew Townend of the University of York has now written the first ever fulllength study of Yorkshire’s Viking centuries, from the fall of York to the Norman Conquest of 1066. Come along for an insight into this fascinating new book, with an opportunity to meet the author and get books signed after the event. Pre-booking advised.
To pre-book events please call 01904 615505 or visit www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk/tickets
The Winter Camp of the Viking Great Army, Torksey, Lincolnshire
The Helen Thirza Addyman Lecture with Professor Julian D Richards, University of York 19:00 | DIG | £6 (£5 Friends of YAT) A brief entry in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle for 872-3 AD records that the Viking Great Army took winter quarters at Turc’s Island, generally thought to be Torksey, in Lincolnshire. Until recently, however, we had no idea where the winter camp was. Now, over 2000 finds recovered by metal-detectorists have allowed us to identify its location. A new archaeological project led by the Universities of York and Sheffield, in collaboration with the York Museums Trust, is investigating the site, studying the reasons for its location, its nature and extent, and the activities carried out. The site at Torksey also allows us to examine the longer term impact of the Army and what happened when they left, as Torksey developed into a Saxon town, with a mint and a major pottery industry. Pre-booking essential.
WEDNESDAY 18
TH
FEBRUARY
Central Camp
10:00 - 16:00 (storytelling 11:00, 13:00, 15:00) | Parliament Street FREE Please see listing from Saturday 14th February for details. Meet the Experts: The Art of Archaeological Illustration 10:00 - 12:00 & 13:00 - 15:00 | Barley Hall Normal Admission Prices Apply Archaeological finds are usually illustrated by means of technical drawings which record objects in a conventionalised way, at precise scale and with painstaking attention to detail; the published drawings can then allow specialists to study the objects. Lesley Collett will demonstrate some of the techniques of archaeological artefact illustration, both digital and traditional, with the opportunity for some hands-on object drawing.
Little Diggers: Valiant Viking Heroes
10:00 - 11:00 | DIG £3 per child (includes one accompanying adult) Could you have been a hero in Viking times? This is your chance to meet a Viking warrior and learn how to slay monsters and save the day! Learn all about a Viking’s armour and design your own magical weapon for use on the battlefield. Could you earn a place in Valhalla?
Craft & Play the Viking Way!
10:30 – 16:00 | St Sampson’s Square Marquee FREE (small charge for some activities) Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Have-a-go Sword Combat
10:30, 11:30, 13:30, 15:30 | Merchant Adventurers’ Hall £3 per child Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Viking Warrior Challenge for Children
12:00 – 16:00 | DIG | Normal admission prices apply Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Legendary Combat Arena: Great Odin!
12:00, 13:30, 15:00 | York Guildhall | £3 Adult, £2 Conc. Odin the great and powerful chief of the Norse Gods was born just one of three sons, but who or what made Odin the greatest god of all? Join us in this thrilling family-friendly performance to find out more about the mighty man! Pre-booking is advised. You wouldn’t want to upset the All-Father would you?
Festival Walking Tour
13:00 | Departs Micklegate Bar | £4 Adult, £3 Conc Please see listing for Monday 16th February for details.
Jeremy Strong : There’s A Viking in My Bed & Other Stories
14:00 | Merchant Adventurers’ Hall | £7.50 per person Come along to meet a true giant of children’s literature: Jeremy Strong. In this appearance at JORVIK Viking Festival, Jeremy will chat about his hilarious Viking stories, and about the business of transforming his ideas into the characters and adventures that we love. Join us for your chance to meet the man himself, buy his books and get them signed, and to ask him your questions! Suitable for ages 7 and up. Includes FREE child’s ticket to JORVIK Viking Centre with each child’s ticket purchased - valid for 12 months. Pre-booking strongly advised
What Did The Vikings Ever Do For Us?
14:00 | York Mansion House | £4 Adult, £3 Conc Snorri Kristjansson, a writer and teacher with a background in acting, music and stand-up comedy, would like to bring to light some of the common misconceptions about the Vikings. Did Viking women really have no rights? Did they pillage everywhere they went? Did they have any impact on modern Britain? And most importantly . . . Did they have horned helmets? Come along and find out the full truth about the Vikings, you may be surprised by what you hear! There will also be an opportunity to hear about Snorri’s new book “Swords of Good Men” and have copies signed by the author. Pre-booking advised.
Once in a Lifetime Tour: Hidden Minster
14:00 | Start at York Minster, Main Entrance | £18 per person Join us for a truly unique experience as part of this year’s Viking Festival; starting at York Minster you’ll be given a tour of the Stoneyard including the masons’ and carvers’ workshops and their specialist tools. Then, explore the Mason’s Loft – a fine room dating back to the 13th century used by the masons as their drawing office, with historic templates still hung for you to see. You will finish your afternoon at historic Barley Hall, just off Stonegate, for an early evening wine reception and a talk on recent discoveries in the Undercroft of York Minster with archaeologist Ian Milsted of York Archaeological Trust. Pre-booking essential.
Beowulf by Candlelight
19:30 | St Helen’s Church, York | £7 adult, £5 conc, £4 child Following the sell-out success of this fantastic performance last year, the wonderful Peter Carrington-Porter returns to the atmospheric surroundings of St Helen’s Church for more unforgettable performances of Beowulf by candlelight. A masterful modern adaptation of the poem, yet faithful to the original, Peter’s performance is a poetic, innovative and entertaining narrative epic taking us back to the mysterious world of Norse monsters and myths. Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.
THURSDAY 19TH FEBRUARY Central Camp
10:00 - 16:00 (storytelling 11:00, 13:00, 15:00) | Parliament Street FREE Please see listing from Saturday 14th February for details.
Meet the Experts: Archaeology at the Speed of Light!
10:00 - 12:00 & 13:00 - 15:00 | Barley Hall Normal Admission Prices Apply Dr David Strange-Walker from Trent & Peak Archaeology, YAT’s Nottingham office, will be on hand to show off some of the latest 3D and digital recording technologies used by archaeologists, including laser scanning, photogrammetry and RTI imaging. A chance to find out about some high-tech, and some not-so-high-tech, recording tools. This is archaeology at the speed of light!
Little Diggers: Dress Like A Viking
10:00 - 11:00 | DIG £3 per child (includes one accompanying adult) Step back in time over 1000 years ago and try out dressing like a Viking! Will you be a fierce warrior, a rich noblewoman or a lowly Viking thrall? Enjoy searching through our Viking costume basket, learn how fabric is made and have a go at creating your very own Viking brooch!
To pre-book events please call 01904 615505 or visit www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk/tickets
Norse Nålebinding Workshop (Beginners Class)
10:00 - 13:00 | DIG | £10 per person A fantastic opportunity to come and learn from expert Mari Wickerts, of Gothenburg Museum, how to produce your own Viking hats and socks using the traditional Norse nålebinding method – knitting with one needle. This session is for complete beginners and all materials are provided, plus tea & coffee. Pre-booking advised to avoid disappointment.
Craft & Play the Viking Way!
10:30 – 16:00 | St Sampson’s Square Marquee FREE (small charge for some activities) Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Have-a-go Sword Combat
10:30, 11:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30 | Merchant Adventurers’ Hall £3 per child Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Viking Warrior Challenge for Children
12:00 – 16:00 | DIG | Normal admission prices apply Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Legendary Combat Arena: How Thor Got His Hammer
12:00, 13:30, 15:00 | York Guildhall | £3 Adult, £2 Conc. Using theatre magic and some very quick costume changes (!) we will unravel the story of how Thor became the strongest and most beloved of the Norse Gods. ‘Will there be weapons and fighting?’ We hear you cry. The answer is yes, of course! It is a Viking story after all. Don’t miss this smashingly good show – pre-book your tickets now.
Festival Walking Tour
13:00 | Departs Micklegate Bar | £4 Adult, £3 Conc Please see listing for Monday 16th February for details.
Norse Tablet Weaving Workshop (Beginners Class)
14:00 - 17:00 | DIG | £10 per person Expert Mari Wickerts of Gothenburg Museum will introduce this new workshop for 2015; a great opportunity for complete beginners interested in trying the traditional decorative craft used to adorn Viking clothing. All materials are provided, plus tea & coffee. Pre-booking advised.
Viking-age Combat: The Physical Effects of Weapon Trauma
14:00 | York Council Chambers, Guildhall | £4 Adult, £3 Conc When considering tactics and weapons of any warrior culture
we should always take the time to consider the effects that the weapons in use actually have; the human body can be both surprisingly tough, yet incredibly frail. Human anatomist, teacher and martial artist Emma Halpin-Durband will lead us through various cases of modern traumatic injuries that are similar to those found in historical records from the Viking era, exploring the force needed to actually damage various areas of the body and discover what this meant for a Viking warrior in combat. Please Note: This lecture will include very graphic images of fatal injuries. Not suitable for children or those of a nervous disposition. Pre-booking advised.
Hollywood & The Sword: Dispelling Popular Myths About Historical Combat
with Hotspur School of Defence 15:30 | York Council Chambers, Guildhall | £4 Adult, £3 Conc In a film or television programme a choreographed fight should tell a story, but this lecture will demonstrate how depictions of fight scenes by Hollywood can often result in various misconceptions and misunderstandings about historical combat. For the Viking Festival special mention will be made of the various portrayals of Vikings and other similar warrior cultures on film and television. Pre-booking advised.
Discovering Borgring: A Viking Fortress Reveals Its Secrets with Dr Søren Sindbæk & Dr Nanna Holm
18:30 welcome drinks for 19:00 start | York Guildhall £12 adult, £10 conc In September 2014 researchers from Denmark announced the discovery of a Viking-age ring-fortress known as Borgring near the old city Køge, south of Copenhagen. It was the first such monument to be identified in Denmark for over 60 years. Four similar, so-called ‘Trelleborg-type’ fortresses are previously known in Scandinavia. They feature among the most massive military constructions of Viking-age Europe, and the meticulous nature of their construction still baffles researchers. Archaeology indicates that this powerful network was built in the reign of King Harald Bluetooth, who “won all Denmark” according to his famous rune stone at Jelling. This talk, presented by the archaeological team who led the excavations, recounts the archaeological detective story, which led to the discovery, presents the first results of the investigations of the site and places the find in an international context. Ticket price include welcome drinks & nibbles. Pre-booking strongly advised.
Beowulf by Candlelight
19:30 | St Helen’s Church, York | £7 adult, £5 conc, £4 child Please see listing from Wednesday 18th February for details.
FRIDAY 20TH FEBRUARY Central Camp
10:00 - 16:00 (storytelling 11:00, 13:00, 15:00) | Parliament Street FREE Please see listing from Saturday 14th February for details.
10th Century Traders
10:00 - 16:00 | St Sampsons Square Marquee & Merchant Adventurers’ Hall | £2 Adult, £1.50 Conc, £5 Family, 50p Vikings from around the world gather to sell their wares; including hand crafted weapons, beautiful jewellery, costume, chests, bowls, tankards, lanterns, belts, shoes and pottery. Don’t miss this superb atmospheric market, one of the oldest of its kind.
Meet the Experts: Forensic Archaeology
10:00 - 12:00 & 13:00 - 15:00 | Barley Hall Normal Admission Prices Apply n any forensic investigation, rigorous evidence recovery is crucial to ensure perpetrators are identified and convicted, so in these cases police call upon forensic archaeologists to ensure remains are recovered carefully, the immediate crime scene is searched methodically and the results are recorded properly for court purposes. Come and find out how forensic archaeology can play a major part in the investigation of serious crimes. Try your hand at building the skeleton (106 bones...), learn how the last meal in a person’s stomach can bear witness to how long ago he or she died and work out the sequence of events at the crime scene in Barley Hall.
Little Diggers: Norse Sagas & Stories
10:00 - 11:00 | DIG £3 per child (includes one accompanying adult) The legends of the Vikings come alive… join us for fun and games all themed around the stories of old. Meet our Viking storyteller and get involved with songs and crafts exploring the world of Norse mythology. Just watch out for any frost giants!
Norse Nålebinding Workshop (Advanced Masterclass)
10:00 - 13:00 | DIG | £10 per person A fantastic opportunity to come and learn from expert Mari Wickerts of Gothenburg Museum, how to produce your own Viking hats and socks using the traditional Norse nålebinding method – knitting with one needle. This session is for advanced nålebinders or those looking for a masterclass. All materials are provided, plus tea & coffee. Pre-booking advised To pre-book events please call 01904 615505 or visit www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk/tickets
Have-a-go Sword Combat
10:30, 11:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30 | Merchant Adventurers’ Hall £3 per child Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Viking Warrior Challenge for Children
12:00 – 16:00 | DIG | Normal admission prices apply Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Legendary Combat Arena: The Beginning Of The End
12:00, 13:30, 15:00 | York Guildhall | £3 Adult, £2 Conc. With such an explosive creation story the Vikings could not settle for anything but a gory apocalypse could they?! Join our storytelling duo as they guide you through the destruction and devastation of Ragnarok, the end of the World according to Norse mythology. Remember; the end is only a new beginning! Join us for our fastpaced and frenzied finale to this week’s legendary performances. This is the ultimate combat performance (literally!) so pre-book early to avoid disappointment.
Festival Walking Tour
13:00 | Departs Micklegate Bar | £4 Adult, £3 Conc Please see listing for Monday 16th February for details.
God of Vengeance with Giles Kristian
14:00 | York Mansion House | £4 Adult, £3 Conc Bestselling historical novelist Giles Kristian returns to JORVIK Viking Festival with his exciting new book: God of Vengeance. A prequel to the popular Raven trilogy, God of Vengeance follows Sigurd, son of Jarl Harald, in his quest for revenge after his family is put to the sword by King Gorm. Neither men nor Gods will stand in Sigurd’s way in this powerful, action-packed bloody epic! You will also get the chance to get your questions answered and have your books signed by the author. Pre-booking advised.
embroiled on a quest to banish a mysterious threat. Spaces are limited, pre-booking strongly advised. This is a fundraising event for York Archaeological Trust.
SATURDAY 21ST FEBRUARY Central Camp
10:00 - 16:00 (storytelling 11:00, 13:00, 15:00) | Parliament Street FREE Please see listing from Saturday 14th February for details.
10th Century Traders
10:00 - 16:00 | St Sampsons Square Marquee & Merchant Adventurers’ Hall | £2 Adult, £1.50 Conc, £5 Family, 50p Re-enactors Please see listing from Friday 20th February for details.
Brawl at the Guildhall: Strongest Viking Competition
10:00 | York Guildhall | £3 adult, £2 conc Now in its fourth year, competition gets even tougher as the cream of the crop from across the UK and Europe vie for the title of Strongest Viking and the chance to receive the coveted trophy. With the competition open to Vikings far and wide, and with special guest judge appearance from Stuart Garrington, winner of Mr Universe 2013 and owner of York’s Ebor Fitness gym, this is sure to be an event you don’t want to miss! Pre-booking advised: 01904 615505 This is a fundraising event for York Archaeological Trust.
Have-a-go Sword Combat
10:30, 11:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30 | Merchant Adventurers’ Hall £3 per child Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
March to Coppergate
Beowulf by Candlelight
19:30 | St Helen’s Church, York | £7 adult, £5 conc, £4 child Please see listing from Wednesday 18th February for details.
13:30 | Dean’s Park | FREE See the Viking warriors of The Brave New Viking World muster and march across the city to Coppergate in a fantastic show of strength as they prepare themselves for tonight’s fiery battle!
Viking Film Night: Holmganga & The 13th Warrior
Best Beard Contest
19:30 | DIG | £5 per person Join us for an evening of Vikings on film. First up award-winning local production company Glass Cannon will be introducing their short film ‘Holmganga’. Shot entirely in Old Norse, it is a tale of honour, violence and a son’s love for his father in the 10th Century. This will be followed by the cult feature film ‘The 13th Warrior’ the tale of a traveller from distant lands who, after stopping at a Viking village port to restock on supplies, finds himself unwittingly
16:30 | Central Camp, Parliament Street | FREE Entering its 8th year, this whimsical and fun competition has become something of a cult highlight, drawing huge crowds and some very competitive participants! Young or old, male or female – all are encouraged to enter and try to win the highly prized beard trophies. Please note, homemade beards are permitted! No pre-booking required.
A Brave New Viking World Spectacular Finale !
SUNDAY 23RD FEBRUARY
Thankfully we survived Ragnarok, the Norse apocalypse in February 2014 and we’re now celebrating the Brave New Viking World. However, the spirits are re-awakening and ‘The Creation’, the birth of the nine worlds of Yggdrasil is about to take place…
Have-a-go Sword Combat
Doors open at 18:00, entertainment commences 18:45 Eye of York (by Clifford’s Tower) £12 adult, £9.50 Conc, £36 family of 4, £45 family of 5
Join us as the historic city of York once again becomes a fiery battleground with a finale display incorporating a cast of warriors, gods and monsters in thrilling live-action battle with sound and light effects and terrific pyrotechnics in an out-ofthis world spectacular!
Remember, the end is only a new beginning… Don’t miss this exciting end to 2015’s JORVIK Viking Festival. Pre-book now as tickets may not be available on the day.
10th Century Traders
10:00 - 16:00 | St Sampsons Square Marquee & Merchant Adventurers’ Hall | £2 Adult, £1.50 Conc, £5 Family, 50p Re-enactors Please see listing from Friday 20th February for details.
10:30, 11:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30 | Merchant Adventurers’ Hall | £3 per child Please see listing from Monday 16th February for details.
Great Viking Bake Off!
11:00 | York Guildhall £2 to enter competition, FREE entry to spectators Come along to York’s Guildhall for a fun and tasty finish to this year’s Festival action! We’ll be holding a competition to find the most creatively baked and decorated cakes and biscuits celebrating a Viking theme, with not a soggy bottom in sight... With lots of JORVIK goodies to be won and of course the glory of being crowned star Viking baker! There are various categories to enter - contact our reservations team for more information and a signup sheet! Every participant will receive a special JORVIK Viking Festival certificate. This is a fundraising event for York Archaeological Trust.
To pre-book events please call 01904 615505 or visit www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk/tickets
FRINGE PROGRAMME DAILY SATURDAY 14th to SUNDAY 22nd FEBRUARY Buried Treasure! Viking Longboats
10:00 - 17:00 | Yorkshire Museum | Normal admission price applies Dress as a Viking pirate and make your own mini longboat. This is a York Museums Trust event.
Pieces of Eight Trail!
10:00 - 17:00 | Yorkshire Museum Normal admission price applies + 50p per trail Follow the clues around the museum to find the pieces of eight! If you are successful claim your own chocolate treasure! This is a York Museums Trust event.
DAILY SUNDAY 15 FEBRUARY to SUNDAY 22nd FEBRUARY th
Olaf’s Tales of Battle
11:00 - 15:00 | Clifford’s Tower | £4 Adult, £3.80 Conc, £2.50 Child, £10.90 Family, EH Members FREE Olaf the Viking storyteller tells tales aloud of the victory in 1066 at Fulford, but also their defeat at Stamford Bridge. Hear about these battles within the walls of the ancient Clifford’s Tower. This is an English Heritage event.
SATURDAY 14th FEBRUARY Viking Fun Day!
12:00 - 13:00 | Explore Acomb Library | £1 per ticket Design your own Viking longboat, sing Viking chants and play some Viking games and activities! Booking essential: Tickets are available from Explore Acomb Library, Front Street, Acomb, York YO24 3BZ. Tel. 01904 552651. E-mail acomb@exploreyork.org.uk This is a York Libraries event.
York Minster Crafts: The Horn of Ulf
10:00 - 15:00 | York Minster | Normal admission charges apply Join York Minster for craft activities inspired by the Horn of Ulf - a 1000 year old elephant horn gifted to the Minster by a Viking nobleman! Suitable for ages 5+ Pre-book or pay on the door. Box Office 01904 557208 / yorkminster.org This is a York Minster event.
Lunchtime Talk: Food Technology & Traditions
13:00 - 14:00 | Bedern Hall | Included in admission price for Battle of Fulford Display (see above) Special Shrove Tuesday pancakes will be on sale alongside this talk. This is a 1066 Society event.
Afternoon Talk: What We Don’t Know About The Battle Of Fulford
17:00 - 18:00 | Bedern Hall | Included in admission price for Battle of Fulford Display (see above) This is a 1066 Society event.
Viking Evening at Conlans Bistro
Conlans Bistro, Acomb | £30 per person Enjoy a very special evening at Conlan’s Bistro, Acomb, with a menu including delicious Viking hog roast and mead. With musical entertainment from songwriting duo To the Blue and stories from your Viking host Adrian Spendlow. Call 01904 783607 to book. This is a Conlans Bistro event.
WEDNESDAY 18th FEBRUARY Battle of Fulford Display
10:00 - 17:00 | Bedern Hall | £1 adults, 50p child Please see listing for Tuesday 17th February for details.
Viking Minecraft
TUESDAY 17th FEBRUARY
11:00 - 15:00 | Explore York Library | FREE Calling all Virtual Vikings! Have fun this half-term and come along to build the Bifrost, launch a longship and help us create the Nine Realms of the Norsemen in Minecraft. Free, drop-in activity, no need to book. Tel. 01904 552828 E-mail york@exploreyork.org.uk This is a York Libraries event.
Battle of Fulford Display
Metal Detecting
10:00 - 17:00 | Bedern Hall | £1 adults, 50p child See the magnificent Fulford Tapestry alongside an exhibition of the archaeology from the site of the 1066 battle of Fulford. A range of refreshments will be available to buy from Bedern Kitchen. This is a 1066 Society event.
11:00 - 13:00 and 14:00 - 16:00 | Yorkshire Museum | Normal admission prices apply What buried treasure will you be able to discover using the museum’s special hand held metal detectors! This is a York Museums Trust event.
Lunchtime Talk: Shoemaking - Style & Substance
13:00 - 14:00 | Bedern Hall | Included in admission price for Battle of Fulford Display (see above) This is a 1066 Society event.
Viking Stories & Crafts
14:30 - 15:30 | Explore Clifton Library | £1.50 per ticket Explore the Viking world with us as you listen to Viking stories and try our Viking inspired crafts. Tickets available from Explore Clifton Library, Tel 01904 552662. E-mail. clifton@exploreyork.org.uk This is a York Libraries event.
Afternoon Talk: What We Don’t Know About The Battle Of Stamford Bridge
17:00 - 18:00 | Bedern Hall | Included in admission price for Battle of Fulford Display (see above) This is a 1066 Society event.
THURSDAY 19th FEBRUARY Battle of Fulford Display
10:00 - 17:00 | Bedern Hall | £1 adults, 50p child Please see listing for Tuesday 17th February for details.
York Minster Crafts: The Horn of Ulf
10:00 - 15:00 | York Minster | Normal admission charges apply Please see listing for Tuesday 17th February for details.
Under 5’s Viking Storytelling!
10:30 - 11:00 | Explore Acomb Library | FREE Come hear Viking tales and sing Viking nursery rhymes if you dare! This is a free session and a parent or carer must stay with children at the session. This is a York Libraries event.
Metal Detecting
11:00 - 13:00 and 14:00 - 16:00 | Yorkshire Museum | Normal admission prices apply Please see listing from Wednesday 18th February for details.
Lunchtime Talk: Medieval Combs - How They Were Made
Afternoon Talk: What We Don’t Know About The Battle Of Hastings
17:00 - 18:00 | Bedern Hall | Included in admission price for Battle of Fulford Display (see above) This is a 1066 Society event.
SATURDAY 21st FEBRUARY The Viking Experience!
10:00 - 12:00 | Explore Acomb Library | £1 per ticket Come join in the Viking fun with games, activities and more to celebrate the end of JORVIK Viking Festival! Booking is essential. Tickets are available from Explore Acomb Library, Tel. 01904 552651, E-mail acomb@exploreyork.org.uk This is a York Libraries event.
Craft Dragons
10:00 - 17:00 | Yorkshire Museum | Normal admission prices apply Craft materials will be available in the Learning Labs for budding Vikings to make their own dragon to take home and train! This is a York Museums Trust event.
Special Film Screening: How to Train Your Dragon
15:00 | Yorkshire Museum | £5 per ticket Meet Hiccup the Viking, who befriends a young dragon, in this DreamWorks animation from 2010. Purchase film tickets at reception. Museum admission is additional. This is a York Museums Trust event.
Destination Viking celebrates and promotes the Viking world and manages the Council of Europe’s Viking Cultural Route. With nearly 40 members from 15 countries, the Association is committed to telling the Viking story in an engaging and exciting way with integrity.
Explore more at www.destinationviking.com
13:00 - 14:00 | Bedern Hall | Included in price for Battle of Fulford Display (see above) This is a 1066 Society event. To pre-book events please call 01904 615505 or visit www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk/tickets
31st
14th to 22nd February 2015
PROGRAMME
Travel with First TransPennine Express to JORVIK Viking Festival and get an EXCLUSIVE 10% discount for selected events!* Simply purchase your train tickets to York at your local staffed ticket office or online at tpexpress.co.uk and present on the day. *T&C: Legendary Viking Combat Area Performances (Mon - Fri); Have-a-Go Sword Fighting for Children (Mon - Sun); and Festival Walking Tour (when available) For full T&Cs please visit www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk/tpterms
Tickets can be booked online or by calling the festival box office on 01904 615505. Lines open Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat-Sun 10am - 2pm. Keep up to date on all the latest news from JORVIK Viking Festival by joining our online mailing list:
www.jorvik-viking-festival.co.uk
Events correct at time of press. The organisers reserve the right to alter or withdraw events.
With thanks to our festival partners.
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JORVIK Viking Festival is managed by York Archaeological Trust a registered charity in England & Wales (No. 509060) and Scotland (SCO42846).
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