The Eye of York last night (Thursday 20 February 2025) became the setting for the final rehearsal of JORVIK Viking Festival’s Evening Spectacular, which will see performances welcoming over 1000 spectators per show tonight (Friday 21 February) and tomorrow evening.
This year’s show – performed in the round at the Eye of York, in the shadow of Clifford’s Tower – brings to life the saga of Tyrfing, a cursed sword whose bearer will always defeat their opponent but at a terrible price! Those watching can expect high drama, hand-to-hand combat and a fiery finale, set to an emotive soundtrack.
“This is JORVIK Viking Festival’s 40th anniversary year, and given our single performance finale is always a sell-out, we have added an extra performance this year,” says Gareth Henry, who organises JORVIK Viking Festival for educational charity, York Archaeology. “We have been watching the weather closely, and the forecast for both evenings is dry and mild – which is fantastic in the middle of February – so we’re confident that our visitors will enjoy two great shows.”
A few tickets remain available for both shows, priced at £20 for adults and £15 for children, with discounts available for residents with a YO postcode. Book tickets at https://jorvikvikingfestival.co.uk
Tomorrow (Saturday) is expected to be the busiest day for this year’s JORVIK Viking Festival, with over 200 Norse warriors marching from York Minster to Coppergate (starts at 1.30pm), the sell-out Viking Games – when all the warriors get to show off their combat skills – and finishing with the Evening Spectacular.
“At the moment, it looks like our living history encampment on Parliament Street may have to close on Sunday, as there is a yellow weather warning for wind, we are hopeful that this is the only activity impacted by the weather this year. Our Berserker Bootcamps will still take place in the Midgard Marquee on Parliament Street,” adds Gareth.
For more information, event times and to book tickets, please visit jorvikvikingfestival.co.uk
