Launch Week at Sagastad Viking Center: A Celebration of Viking Heritage and strength
April 23 – 29, 2025
This spring, the Sagastad Viking Center in Nordfjordeid is the place to be as they host an exhilarating launch week for the Myklebust Viking Ship. From the enormous ship’s journey to the fjord to a vibrant mix of Viking reenactments, activities, feasts, and cultural celebrations, this week-long event promises to immerse visitors in the rich history and heritage of the Vikings. With a special appearance by world-renowned strongman Martins Licis, the launch of the Myklebust Viking Ship marks the beginning of an unforgettable experience for Viking enthusiasts and visitors alike.
Wednesday, April 23: The Ship Pull by Martins Licis
Experience the Strength of a Legend: Martins Licis Pulls the Myklebust Viking Ship to the Fjord!
Event: 15:00 to 19:00
The excitement kicks off on Wednesday, April 23rd, as Martins Licis, one of the strongest men in the world, attempts to pull the iconic Myklebust Viking Ship to the fjord. This remarkable challenge will see Licis harnessing his immense strength to move the legendary ship across the terrain, showcasing Viking-like power and determination.
Event Schedule:
- 15:00 – Meet and Greet with Martins Licis: Get up close with the world champion, take photos, and learn about his journey in strength sports.
- 16:00 – The Ship Pull Begins: Watch in awe as Licis begins his attempt to pull the Myklebust Viking Ship.
- 19:00 – The ship reaches the fjord: The culmination of an unforgettable day as the ship is pulled to its home on the fjord.
- Sagastad Café will be open throughout the day.
As the Viking village comes to life during the afternoon, guests can explore Viking reenactments, listen to storytelling, and enjoy the energy of this historic event.
Thursday, April 24: Viking Village and Norse Activities
Sagastad Opening Hours: 09:00 to 18:00
On Thursday, the Sagastad Viking Center opens its doors for an action-packed day of Viking reenactments, archery, games, and storytelling. Visitors will get to experience the traditional Viking lifestyle firsthand with activities running from 10:00 to 17:00.
- Viking Village Activities: Try your hand at archery, watch Viking demos, and explore the village as it takes shape.
- Find your Viking Birthday: 17:00, Sigrun Björk Olafsdottir teaches you how to find your Viking birthday using the ancient Norse calendar.
- Sagastad Café will be open throughout the day.
Meanwhile, the Myklebust Viking Ship will undergo a traditional soaking process called plymming to prepare it for its voyages on the fjord.
Friday, April 25: Official Opening Ceremony
Sagastad Opening Hours: 09:00 to Midnight
The excitement continues on Friday with more Viking reenactments and demonstrations, with an extra special evening in store.
- 16:00 – Find your Viking Birthday: Join Sigrun Björk Olafsdottir and find your viking birthday according to the Old Norse calendar
- 17:00 – Sagastad Feast: Goulash stew available for purchase on site, will be served to fuel the evening’s festivities. Beverages available at the Sagastad bar.
- 19:00 – Official Opening Ceremony: The Minister of Culture, Lubna Jaffery, will officially cut the ribbon, marking the beginning of the voyages for the Myklebust Viking Ship.
- The Myklebust rowing crew will take to the oars on the ship’s first journey of the year, with a special Icelandic blessing and musical performances by Solfyr and Helisir.
- Sagastad Café will be open throughout the day.
Saturday, April 26: Viking village, Creatures of the North and Fashion Show
Sagastad Opening Hours: 09:00 to 18:00
Saturday brings more Viking history to life with the much-anticipated Creatures of the North Talk and a spectacular Viking fashion show.
- 10:00 to 17:00 – Viking Village activities, including Viking reenactment, games, archery and storytelling.
- 10:00, 13:00, and 19:30: Voyages with the Myklebust Viking Ship on the fjord.
- 11:00 – Viking Birthday with Sigrun Björk Olafsdottir: Discover your Viking birthday.
- 15:00 – Creatures of the North Talk: Sigrun Olafsdottir dives into the fascinating world of creatures from Norse mythology, including hidden people and elves.
- Sagastad Café will be open throughout the day.
19:00 to Midnight: The Viking Runway Show, inspired by Bifröst, the rainbow bridge of Norse mythology, will be held on the illuminated Myklebust Viking Ship. This stunning show will feature modern fashion pieces blending Viking heritage with contemporary design, showcasing ONE NODE’s latest collection. Expect vibrant rainwear inspired by the colors of the rainbow bridge, Viking rain capes, and a finale featuring real Vikings embodying the power of their ancestors.
20:30 Viking music performance by Solfyr
Viking Feast Included: The evening begins with a Viking-inspired feast featuring a delectable Kjebab buffet, perfect for fueling up before the fashion show begins. Beverages available at the Sagastad bar.
Sunday, April 27: More Viking Voyages and Music
Sagastad Opening Hours: 09:00 to Midnight
Sunday offers another chance to experience the Myklebust Viking Ship’s voyages, with performances by Buldrekoret and Eid Mannskor filling the air with music.
- 10:00 to 17:00 – Viking Village activities, including Viking reenactment, games, archery and storytelling.
- 10:00, 13:00, and 21:00: Voyages with the Myklebust Viking Ship on the fjord.
Sagastad Café will be open throughout the day.
Monday, April 28: The Viking Regatta and Record Attempt
Sagastad Opening Hours: 09:00 to 18:00
Monday marks a thrilling day for rowing enthusiasts as British and Norwegian Olympic rowers take part in a Viking regatta on the fjord.
- 10:00 to 17:00 – Viking Village activities, including Viking reenactment, games, archery and storytelling.
- 11:00 and 15:00: The Myklebust Viking Ship will continue its voyages.
- 12:00: The British and Norwegian Olympic rowers will compete in a Viking regatta aboard the Viking ships Ask and Birk. Led by Oliver Cook (UK) and Martin Helseth (Norway), they will join forces on the Myklebust for an attempt at setting an unofficial world record for the fastest Viking ship rowing.
- Sagastad Café will be open throughout the day.
Tuesday, April 29: AIDAnova Arrival and Viking Greetings
Sagastad Opening Hours: 09:00 to 18:00
On the final day of launch week, AIDAnova cruise ship will be docking in Nordfjordeid, and the Myklebust rowing team will row out to greet the ship in the morning. A group of Vikings will board the cruise ship to greet the guests with traditional flair.
- 10:00 to 17:00 – Viking Village activities, including Viking reenactment, games, archery and storytelling.
- 13:00: The Myklebust Viking Ship sets off once more for its final voyage of the week.
- Sagastad Café will be open throughout the day.
This unforgettable week at Sagastad Viking Center offers a perfect mix of history, adventure, and cultural celebration. Whether you are witnessing Martins Licis pull the Myklebust Viking Ship to the fjord or attending the spectacular Viking fashion show, this event is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the Viking spirit. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this extraordinary experience—book your tickets now and prepare for an adventure through time!
