Stepping Into the Viking Age on a Winter Weekend in Massachusetts

Did you know our the managing editor of our blog, Richard Fahey (Ph.D. English '20), organizes an annual festival around the medieval world of Beowulf in his corner of the world? Read more about it here—and plan to attend next time if you can!

On a cold February night in Massachusetts, North Folk Night Market transforms Red Apple Farm into a world of firelit performances, handcrafted wares, and scenes drawn from Beowulf. Kelly Broderick takes us inside a winter festival where history, fantasy, and storytelling come together.

I arrived at Red Apple Farm on a cold, February night, dressed in woven layers and warm furs. I entered the gate, above which was a sign that read “North Folk Night Market.” I was immediately transported back in time to the Viking Age. The light of a dozen campfires flickered across the hilly fields as darkness descended upon the orchard. I was greeted by the warm smell of burning wood and the sounds of ancestral music and throat singing. All around were folk dressed in battle-gear, with iron helmets and round painted shields. Patrons shopped by firelight, going from tent to tent browsing wares made of fur, leather, and chainmail.

Just inside the main gate, a large bonfire serves as a beacon leading you to the Mead Hall Stage, Heorot. Within, King Hrothgar and Queen Wealtheow sit upon their thrones, while Hildeburh plays sweet melodies upon her harp. Patrons are encouraged to enter the hall and warm themselves from the cold while communing with one another and admiring the great hall. A coven of witches gathers around the fire, dancing in rhythm with the flickering flames. The Norns arrive to foretell of Beowulf’s coming and the events which will soon befall Heorot. The stage is set, and the telling of the epic tale is about to begin [...].

This is an excerpt from "Stepping Into the Viking Age on a Winter Weekend in Massachusetts," by Kelly Broderick, published at medievalists.net. Read the full piece.