New to the site: the Vista Viking Festival returns to the Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum in Vista for its 24th year on Saturday and Sunday, September 19–20, 2026. This year’s theme is “The Year of Loki.”
Billed as Southern California’s premier celebration of Viking and Nordic culture, the two-day festival features live music from 9+ bands, flaming axe and fire exhibitions, an interactive Viking Village with 30+ craftsmen and merchants, and 30+ local meads and beers from area meaderies and breweries. Competitive events include a Men’s and Women’s Professional Stonelifting World Championship qualifier, along with fish fling, beard, battle cry, and log toss contests. An expanded Youth & Kids Pavilion offers storytelling, a kids’ shield wall, sword and shield decorating, and youth strength events, plus live blacksmithing demonstrations throughout the grounds.
Proceeds benefit the Norway Hall Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, along with local schools and youth programs.
For tickets and additional information visit vistavikingfestival.com.
