Vista Viking Festival - Vista, California

Christopher Hazlett

Super cool. 2023 was my first year going, and I loved it. I definitely plan on going again in the future. I think this is the first year they had it at the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum. They used to have it at the Norway Hall down the street. It felt like a Viking version of the Vista/San Diego Scottish Highland Games they have at Brengle Terrace Park. The Viking Festival had plenty of food options, it's better spaced out than the Highland Games, and there are tables under a tent to eat. The Daughters of Norway were there, and there was a genealogy section. There were plenty of vendors. There was also athletics competition to watch. There was a place where you could throw a spear, hatchet, and archery.

There are 2 things I would slightly change up. 1st is to expand the fencing around the athletics so more people could stand next to the fence. I wouldn't mindcstanding a bit further back if it meant I had an unobstructed view. The 2nd is to place the host vendor (where you can buy Viking Festival shirts) to a more central location (instead of by the entrance) or add a second stand on the way out.

Kennedy Hughes

Way hot, would be cute for a weekend set up during a Christmas festival. Was sad the competitions seemed like they started early because of the heat maybe as well because what we came to see was wrapped up and taking pictures when the event was to start. I’m glad I didn’t take my kids even though there were plenty there- very crowded. Cool music and vendors though

Andrew Soto

This event would be perfect if they did a 21+ at night with no children. It’s really hot during the day so wearing a costume would be extra hot. The event is wayyy too crowded during the day to really enjoy the fest. Parking is horrible, so it would be nice if they added a VIP option for people that would pay more to get a closer spot near the place.

Terie Keel

Good place to pick up outfits. Lots of beer and mead. The food looked and smelled delicious. Good place to pick up some unique pieces to finish your outfit.
The clothing was overpriced, but must add it is well made.
Arrow and hatchet throwing, different bands throughout the day.
What else can I say,
Lots of beer and mead.
If you don’t have anything to do on a Sunday, it’s probably entertaining

Agent_Storm

This festival was a lot of fun and the jewelry bought here is now daily worn and keeping up wonderful! The atmosphere is great and a lot of fun tasks you can do such as archery and axe throwing. I would definitely recommend going for the experience but to go early on or later in the day or just be aware that it will be very crowded in some areas. The music was amazing as were the venders and the handcrafted goods and the display of their black smithing area.

Dennis Armstrong

Sucks they moved. But damit its still viking fest

Audrey H

We love the Vista viking fest! We've gone every year for the past 8 years (minus covid years when it was unfortunately not open) and we're very excited to continue the tradition.
It is true that there has been a larger crowd every year. But every year has brought more vendors and much more mead availability as well! I do hope they can open up more space in the future or rearrange the space to fit the vendors and crafts sections, but it certainly won't keep us from going. It's obvious that a lot of love has been put into this local festival.
It's a wonderful way to spend a weekend, and we love dressing up a little bit and enjoying a berserker dog and the entertainment options - the "bawdy juggler" in particular is one of our favorite shows. Can't wait to try out the mead selection this year. Skål!

Jared Volavka

It is a very small (location and venue size) festival, but it has the potential to grow and do very well. Finding a larger location would do well to help with crowds and allow for more vendors to showcase their wares. Not to mention a lack of non-beef and non-pork options; adding more of those to the official menu would help a lot a well. But overall it's a fun way to spend about $30 ($10 admission and $5 drink tickets) for two adults for an afternoon.