Arkansas Viking Thing – A Festival of Norse Heritage

Honoring Norse Traditions with Games, Music, and Rituals
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A Winter Gathering of Strength, Story, and Spirit

Celebrate the traditions of the Norse at Arkansas Viking Thing this February. Step into a world inspired by Viking history and culture, filled with competitions of strength, ancient games, live entertainment, and powerful rituals that honor the past.

Arkansas Viking Thing Event Details

February 2026

Exact dates coming soon!

Arkansas Viking Thing at a Glance

  • Viking Games of Old- Jomswikiger, Toga hönk, Hnefatafl, and Kubb
  • Competitions of Valor- Warrior Challenge & Beard and Braid Contest
  • Entertainment- Norse storytelling, myths, and music across multiple stages
  • Marketplace- Handcrafted goods from artisan vendors
  • Ship Burning Ceremony- A powerful memorial ritual closing the festival

Arkansas Viking Thing Experience – What’s Included

three kids dressed up talking to a man dressed up as a pirate.

Viking Games & Challenges

  • Ancient Games- Play historic Viking games dating back to the 700s, including Jomswikiger, Toga hönk, Hnefatafl, and Kubb.
  • Warrior Challenge- Compete in trials of strength and skill, echoing the endurance of Norse warriors.
  • Beard & Braid Contest- Show off your best Viking style in this fun and spirited competition.
A group of people are sitting in the woods watching a performance.

Entertainment & Storytellings

  • Norse Legends- Hear sagas and myths shared by storytellers.
  • Music of the North- Experience live performances that bring Viking culture to life.
A table with a bunch of eggs on it

Viking Marketplace

  • Browse handcrafted goods and artisan creations inspired by Norse tradition, from jewelry and leatherwork to unique crafts.

Honor Tradition with the Ship Burning Ceremony

The festival concludes with a moving Memorial Ship Burning Ceremony, open to all. This ancient-inspired ritual honors those who have passed in the previous year, bringing the community together in remembrance, fire, and reflection.

Join the Viking Thing This February

Unleash your inner warrior and step into a world of Norse games, music, and tradition. From epic competitions to the moving ship burning ceremony, the Arkansas Viking Thing is an experience you won’t want to miss.