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 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 mighty Saxon and Viking Festival 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.
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 – 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 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 – 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.
Says Jo Daines 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!’
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.
Tickets range from £5.00 – £15.00 per adult with children under 12 free.
Saturday Full Day £15.00 (10:00 – 20:00). Saturday Evening £5.00 (17:00 – 20:00). Sunday £10.00 (10.00 – 16:00)
Visitors can bring their own tents, caravans or motorhomes or stay on the Stonham Barns Park campsite. Visit the following Pitchup link
https://www.pitchup.com/campsites/England/East_Anglia/Suffolk/Stowmarket/stonham-barns-caravan-park/ or search Stonham Barns Park for more details.
A range of luxury holiday homes that sleep up to 4-6 guests is also available. Call 01449 711901 to book.
Stonham Barns Park is a day out for all the family to suit all ages. Other activities at the leisure, retail and holiday venue include The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Legends Sports Bar, Café 24, The Golf Centre including Adventure Golf and FootGolf, The Teapot Pottery, holiday lodges, a caravan park, camping and glamping and fishing lakes.
For more information or to book tickets go to: www.stonhambarns.co.uk/saxon-viking-2023
