Viking Fest MN | Dakota County Fairgrounds
A bold new celebration of Viking heritage is coming to the Dakota County Fairgrounds (4008 220th St W, Farmington), for two weekends, October 4 & 5 and October 11 & 12 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day. Viking Fest, an immersive experience meant to celebrate and educate guests by inviting them to step into the world of the Vikings and Norse mythology in an entertaining and family-friendly environment that invites all to BE a Viking!
Guests will experience everything from combat demonstrations and live entertainment to artisan crafts, storytelling, and hands-on workshops. Interactive activities include axe throwing, archery, weapons training, puzzle quests, and a craft area where guests can try their hand at Viking Age crafts. Visitors can step into the Viking Age at the living history encampment, an immersive experience where they will engage with reenactors and witness demonstrations of blacksmithing, weaving, woodworking, historic cooking, and other traditional crafts. Guests can feast like Vikings with a variety of food and beverage trucks or take part in the Theater-in-the-Round feasts, an immersive dining experience.
As animals were an important part of Viking culture, guests will see many on display and in action. In the Animal Building and outdoors on the Animal Field, you’ll be able to observe the uniqueness of Islandic horses, sheep and chickens. Plus, watch animal demonstrations such as horseback archery, blade shearing, and fleece felting.
Viking Fest is also the proud owner of the largest working Viking ship in Minnesota. It’s 30 feet long and 7.5 feet wide! There will also be a Viking Age museum where guests can explore artifacts, high-quality replicas, and engaging presentations that bring history to life. Discover the tools, weapons, and everyday items used by the Norse people, gaining a deeper understanding of their culture and craftsmanship. This exhibit offers an educational experience for all ages, blending authenticity with storytelling.
Viking Fest isn’t just for adults. Young adventurers will have plenty to enjoy in the dedicated kids’ area. Children can get hands-on with arts and crafts, choose from a variety of coloring pages, and play with safe but fun swords and shields. This family-friendly space ensures that even the youngest festival-goers can immerse themselves in the spirit of the Viking Age.
Viking Fest will also feature music and stage acts including:
- The Danger Committee – Knife throwing, comedy, and stunt performance (both weekends)
- Barátok Belly Dance Company – Authentic dance inspired by ancient traditions (both weekends)
- Harp Twins – World-renowned harpists with a metal edge, joined by Volfgang Twins (Oct. 4 & 5)
- Barbarian Bombshells – High-energy comedic burlesque troupe (Oct. 4 & 5)
- Nordic Daughter – Modern music with Nordic inspiration (Oct. 11 & 12)
- Educational Partners & Experts – Including Viking Age researcher Tomáš Vlasatý (Project Forlǫg) and The Oakeshott Institute
Additional Signature Experiences (separate tickets):
- Theater‑in‑the‑Round Feasts offering immersive dining where saga, steel, and table service meet:
- Saturday Feasts (Ages 17+): Four-course adult feast, mature-themed humor.
- Cost: $75 ($86.51 w/ fees)
- October 4 and October 11, with 12 – 2 p.m. and 4 – 6 p.m. seatings
- Sunday Feasts (All Ages): Two‑course family-friendly feasts
- Cost: $39, ($45.14 w/ fees)
- October 5 and October 12, 12 – 2 p.m.
- Saturday Feasts (Ages 17+): Four-course adult feast, mature-themed humor.
- Ragnarök (Evening Event, 21+) – The Ultimate Viking Afterparty
- Saturday nights, limited tickets, 6:30 – 11:30 p.m.
- Includes live entertainment and on-site Mead Tour tasting
- Cost: $25 per person ($29.05 w/ tax and fees)
Viking Fest Tickets:
Full ticketing information: vikingfest.com/tickets
General Admission – Daily
Adults and Teens – $23 ($28.52 w/ fees)
Children (ages 5–12) – $14 ($18.14 w/ fees)
Children under 4 – Free
Season Pass – includes access to all four days, commemorative medallion, and early/exclusive pre-event access
Adults and Teens – $46 ($55.07 w/fees)
Children (ages 5–12) – $28 ($34.30 w/fees)
Children under 4 – Free
Assets:
About Viking Fest Minnesota
Viking Fest Minnesota is an immersive cultural festival blending historical reenactments, Norse mythology, combat demonstrations, artisan craftsmanship, and unforgettable stage acts. Designed for families, history buffs, fantasy fans, and adventurers alike, the festival is the country’s premier destination to live the legend—to BE a Viking. https://vikingfest.com/
