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The Loki Festival

Join us in Kirkby Stephen this spring for a unique celebration of our town’s early medieval and Viking heritage.

Event Date

09 May 2026

12:00 AM

This event occurs daily from
09 May 2026 to 10 May 2026

£ FREE

Description

The Loki Festival brings history to life with live Viking re‑enactments, family activities, and the chance to discover the famous tenth‑century Loki Stone - one of the rarest carvings of its kind in Europe.

The festival takes place in the atmospheric churchyard of Kirkby Stephen Parish Church, home to centuries of history and remarkable ancient stonework.

What’s Happening at the Festival?

Live Viking Age Re‑enactment.  Meet Herlid Vikings, Cumbria’s premier Dark Age re‑enactment group. They’ll be setting up an authentic Viking encampment where you can watch combat demonstrations, learn about traditional crafts, and see how people lived more than a thousand years ago. Their living‑history displays include cooking, clothing repair, blacksmithing and more.

The Loki Stone.  Step inside the church to see the renowned Loki Stone, a 10th‑century carving of a bound figure long associated with the Norse god Loki. Only two such carvings are known in Europe, making this a truly rare and fascinating piece of Viking‑age art. Its striking form and mysterious symbolism have inspired generations of visitors, and it will be housed in a new display case from the spring of 2026.

Explore Local Heritage.  Kirkby Stephen has deep Viking and early medieval roots, reflected in both its name-meaning “church settlement” in Old Norse—and in the historic stones found throughout the church.

During the festival, you’ll have opportunities to discover more about the area’s past through displays, talks, and self‑guided exploration.

Fun for All Ages.  The Loki Festival is designed for the whole community and visiting families. Look forward to:

• Hands‑on activities inspired by Viking life
• Opportunities to chat with costumed interpreters
• Heritage displays and demonstrations
• A welcoming festival atmosphere in a beautiful historic setting

Address

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