The Immersive Dark Ages Show at the Mid-Suffolk Showground is on its way … complete with Fire Dancers and the torching of a Viking Boat to thrill and entertain.
Stonham Barns Park, one of Suffolk’s premier leisure, retail and holiday destinations, is staging a massive Saxon & Viking Festival on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September for families and history lovers from all over the region.
The much-acclaimed Saxon and Viking Festival – the flagship show for new events company Red Lion Events – will take visitors back 1000 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. The event will reflect the people of the 850 to 950AD when East Anglia was conquered and settled by the Danish Vikings and the two people lived together as one for many years.
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 significant historic finds have been discovered.
The Saxon & Viking Festival offers modern day warriors – of all ages – 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 mega battle finale will be fought out. 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 – central to the organisation of the event – 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.
Comments, Fraser Carson of Red Lion Events, ‘We are delighted to be back at Stonham Barns Park with this festival weekend. It’s not just one day but two fully packed days with action and excitement including a bigger torchlight procession featuring four fire dancers and an even bigger sacrificial boat to burn! We are also adding music at The Barn to complete the festival atmosphere. It’s going to be one mighty and immersive weekend for all those who attend.’
Adds Josh Forward Events Manager at Stonham Barns Park, ‘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. It is a must for families and friends with fun activities everywhere you look. This is one dynamic show that rolls out action from beginning to end – it really is as colourful, and dramatic as a show can get!’
Arise, arise. Warriors of courage! Fell deeds awake, fire and slaughter! Spear shall be shaken, shield shall be splintered, a sword day, a red day, ere the sun rises! Ride now, ride now! Ride to Stonham!
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.
Advanced tickets available or on the gate. Saturday Adult all day £15. Saturday Adult evening only £5. Sunday Only Adult £10. Under 12s FREE both days.
For more information or to book tickets email: [email protected]
