The Vikings are invading Slane Castle this May in a festival of ferocious fighting and family fun harking back to the 8th and 9th century when the invaders were very real indeed. Boyne Valley Viking Experience will be the largest historical re-enactment festival in Ireland this year with hundreds of armoured Viking warriors battling for supremacy with the Castle as a dramatic backdrop. It’s a fabulous family day out with a flashing swords, demonstrations, a tented Viking village, and a fleet of replica longships compete with sailors. Put the weekend of 20/21 May 2023 in your diary now.
Twice a day over 200 armoured, full contact Viking warriors will take to the battlefield competing to be crowned Irish champion. The metallic clash of swords and armour and clunks of wooden shields will echo through the air creating an incomparable atmosphere.
Viking families and warriors from all over Ireland and Europe will be camped in an authentic tented village below the Castle. Visitors will find themselves in a wonderland of contemporary experiences, telling the story of how Viking folk lived in the area more than a thousand years ago. Demonstrations run throughout each day by crafts people using medieval tools and ancient skills and include, woodworking, leatherworking, pottery, weaving, jewellery making, falconry displays, music played on ancient instruments, rune readings and more. Visitors can try archery and hear Skalds tell Viking sagas.
Full size replica long-ships will be on display and sailors from the Vikings TV Series will tell tall tales of hair raising adventures. The Children’s Treasure Hunt led by play expert Stepan Barry is a wonderful fun experience for younger visitors. Aspiring young warriors will enjoy the Children’s Warrior training where they can learn Viking battle tactics, how to form a shield wall and fight against the fierce Viking warriors.
The Viking re-enactment and festival are presented by Lakes Vikings, a group of enthusiasts with 20 years’ experience sailing Viking long boats and organising fun festivals and events.
Slane Castle,
Slane,
Co Meath