19 September 2023
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Saxon & Vikings at Stonham Barns Park
Stonham Barns Park is staging the last of a series of re-enactment shows on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 October for families and history lovers from all over the region.
The Saxon and Viking Festival will take visitors back 1,000 years when it features a chaotic and boisterous army encampment full of hundreds of Saxon and Viking warriors looking to portray the rich and textured history of East Anglia in the Dark Ages.
During the two-day festival, the various champion warriors will be looking to make a name for themselves on the battlefield, and the lords present will look to replace Jarl Sigaard as Lord of East Anglia. This event will be based in Stonham Aspal, the mid-Suffolk village where historic finds have been discovered.
The Saxon & Viking Festival offers modern day warriors the chance to experience a taste of what life was like in times past. There will be re-enactment groups from all around the country for the weekend of activities. Each group will give an insight into the way of life and culture which will include insights into cooking, weaving, leathercraft, woodwork, blacksmithing, herbalism, with Saga storytelling and Rune readings. Visitors will be able to participate in have-a-go sessions which will include archery and axe throwing, all handled under the supervision of certified instructors.
Re-enactment displays and battles will take place in the show ring, after which a big battle finale will occur! On Saturday evening crowds will line the walkways for a torchlight parade, fire dancers, and the spectacle of the ceremonial burning of a Viking Boat to honour the fallen.
One of the most prominent re-enactment groups is the Wuffa Viking and Saxon Re-Enactment Society who are dedicated to learning and living the ways of the early Medieval Period. They meet at three locations in the region – Lowestoft, Ipswich and Norwich.
Jo Daines, Events Manager at Stonham Barns Park, said, “This event is a mind-blowing festival for anyone interested in history. The characters who attend bring so much energy and enthusiasm to the show – along with a good amount of fighting and hostility – to bring The Dark Ages to life.”
A licenced bar will be open throughout the event. Hot and cold refreshments and food will also be available. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads.
Ticket prices
Saturday full day - £15 (10am-8pm)
Saturday evening - £5 (5pm-8pm)
Sunday - £10 (10am-4pm)
Visitors can bring their own tents, caravans or motorhomes or stay on the Stonham Barns Park campsite. Bell tents are also available to hire or a Shepherd’s cabin for those who prefer something a little more unusual.
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