Your Glorious Adventure

VikingFest

November 5, 2024

VikingFest “where history and fiction collide in an exhilarating celebration that allows attendees to make history come alive!”

I am so excited to be hosted as a media guest at VikingFest KC in St. Joseph, MO a little north of Kansas City. I 100% would have attended this even if I wasn’t provided a free ticket. I met the organizers at the Bluffwoods Renaissance Festival which is held at the same location and was excited to share both ReRoll Tavern (they run that and Vignettes Bar) this VikingFest post.

Since this is the first annual 1 day event, I shared as much as possible before the event. I’ve added photos now to prepare for year 2!

When

First VikingFest: Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 11am to midnight

What

Similar to a Renaissance Festival, VikingFest blends history with fantasy. Dress up like a Viking (no level of realism required). Eat festival foods and drink mead (or not). Shop! Experience the historical reenactment village. Listen to music, watch a fire show, play games (like Dungeons and Dragons sign up required) and foam sword fighting, test your strength, and watch professional Strongman lifters and armored fighters. Join with the Wolves (Go Wolves! We’re the best!), Dragons, Bears, or Ravens and earn glory as they pick the next Jarl (leader).

The event is family friendly with a kids area. Check out the “KIDGARD section for the littlest Vikings to play! Events throughout the day, kid parade and petting zoo!”

In the evening (going until Midnight), the event is more geared towards adults with the burning of a Viking ship and live Viking Rock music.

Weather

Vikings fear not a little weather. This event is rain or shine. That being said, in addition to many fun outdoor activities, the Asgard (Castlebridge Castle Event Space) includes a spacious and comfortable inside area should you prefer to be inside. Check out my tips section for how to prepare for a great time in any weather. (If you’ve gone to a football game, you can do this!)

Tickets

(check website for current pricing)

General Admission Tickets are $30 at the door. Buy advance tickets on eventbrite.

Kid Tickets (under age) 13 are $10.

Limited availability VIP (Very Important Viking) tickets will likely sell out before the event, so if you are interested in a feast, drinking horn, and special entertainment, buy your ticket right away.

Site Map, Schedule, and Vendors 2024 (most current versions here)

Tips

Prepare similar to a Renaissance Festival or other fair.
No real weapons allowed! Foam is great!
Tips for rain/cold
- Pro tip is to double up on socks and put a plastic sandwich bag (no zipper) between the layers to keep your toes dry.
- Trash bags or grocery bags tucked up between a layer of clothing keeps the rain off and your heat in.
- Top everything off with something warm on your head/ears, hands, and neck.
- You might even bring hand/foot warmers for the evening chill.
- Wool and cloaks are encouraged.
Dress in layers and bring a change of clothing. This is a long day, you might want to change if your outfit is elaborate or if rain falls.
Dress up to maximize the fun! It’s not required, but I love to dress up. If you don’t have an outfit, you’ll most likely be able to buy costume pieces there.
Bring cash. It’s only proper to tip performers at least a dollar when you watch their show (more is always welcome). While you can buy some things with cards, cash is easier for smaller vendors and is accepted everywhere.
Be sure to check out the schedule of events for shows and joust times. Plan your shopping and eating around what you want to see and do.
If you want to play Dungeons and Dragons read this for details
Pick an animal clan and support your group with some friendly rivalry.
Prepare to spend a day walking outside: comfortable shoes or boots, sunscreen, bug spray, and maybe even a parasol/umbrella are in order. Stay hydrated (even if it’s cold) especially if you are drinking. I like to bring a mug with a special belt clip to really get into the spirit (you can probably buy these onsite).
While there are a few paved areas the majority of the faire is set in open grassy fields in true festival style. Expect mud if there has been rain. Embrace the mud. Be one with the mud like when you were a kid.
Dogs! “Well behaved dogs with up to date/current vaccinations are allowed at VikingFest if they are on a short leash.” Not allowed inside the building unless it is a service animal.
Bring a reusable bag for your shopping finds because it’s a long walk back to the car.
You can have a great time on your own, but it’s even more fun with friends or family. I’m bringing my mom.
Use this great opportunity to buy unique gifts and treat yourself.
Stick around for the evening party. If some of your group will want to leave early, drive separately.

Location

Castlebridge Event Center

8403 US-59, St Joseph, MO 64504

St. Joseph is located just over 40 minutes North of the Kansas City International Airport, 30 minutes North of Weston, and about 1 hour North of the River Market.

To find the entrance by car, keep an eye out for the Castlebridge Event Space sign and drive back past the Bargain Barn Antique Store.

Complimentary parking is located around the festival and is mostly on grass. (Try to avoid parking in any deep mud!) As with all festivals, be prepared to walk a distance from where you park.