The Magnus Bareleg Viking prepare for the annual summer solstice festival
Swords, shields, helmets and chain mail will be rattling once again at the Magnus Barelegs Vikings summer solstice festival at their medieval village on the shores of Ballydugan Lake outside Downpatrick.
The event takes place on Saturday 21st June 2025 at the viking village, but there will be a lot to entertain local families and viking fans. It runs from 12 Noon to 5pm.
Throughout the afternoon there will be a bewildering display of viking crafts, skills and food in this family-friendly, fun-filled afternoon.
Viking spokesperson Peter McConville said: “The highlight of the afternoon is the practise with martial techniques and the viking adult warriors have to face a deadly foe in the combat ring… a group of youngsters from 3 to 13 who mercillessly beat their shields and attack the vikings trying to break their defensive shield wall down.
“But there will also be demostrations of weaponry use involving spears, axes and archery.
“Kids can get dressed up in viking regalia for the afternoon to get into the swing of it all.
CHECK OUT THE 2024 PHOTOS FROM THE MAGNUS BARELEGS Summer Solstice FESTIVAL
“In the background you may hear the vibes of viking music. But of interest to the many visitors will be the dancing round the maypole at 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. The dancers pick a ribbon and careful choreography see the maypole being braided in a pattern with the ribbons.”
Magnus Bareleg Vikings have been running for over 20 years and is the largest viking re-enactment group in the North. Vikings from all over Ireland and sometimes from farther afield come to the event.
The Bareleg Viking put on school visits through the year and have an educational function, but the big gathering of vikings at Delamont Country Park is only on every second year as it involves a lot of work and expense. The Magnus Vikings invite viking groups from all over to attend.
The vikings formulate teams and compete in challenges over the two days it runsat Delamont.
So pop along to the event at the Viking Village at Ballyuggan and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere with a difference.
There is free parking, and there are toilets and a disabled toilet avaiable.
Everyone is welcome!
Entry: Children £5. Adults £7.50. Families £20.
CHECK OUT THE 2024 PHOTOS FROM THE MAGNUS BARELEGS summer solstice Event
