Medieval Market & Viking Spectacle Kemnader See

A Viking Village at Kemnader See

The Medieval Market & Viking Spectacle at Kemnader See is one of the most atmospheric historical festivals in the Ruhr area. On the weekend of May 9th and 10th, 2026, the Heveney harbor — on the southeastern shore of Kemnader See, on the city border between Bochum and Witten — transforms into a vibrant Viking village with market activities, spectacle, and dragons.

Fangdorn — the Fire-Breathing Dragon Ship

The main visual and auditory attraction is Fangdorn, a 12-meter long dragon ship with a fire-breathing maw. It sails the Kemnader See three times daily — Vikings on board, actors in armor, flames from the dragon's head. An experience that particularly captivates families with children.

Over 50 Stalls — Crafts Like 1000 Years Ago

Over 50 stalls are set up at Heveney harbor. Merchants sell leather goods, jewelry, mead, forged knives, hand-woven fabrics, blacksmith art, and jewelry in the Viking style. Artisans demonstrate blacksmithing, bow making, coin minting, felting, and glass bead making — many stalls involve the audience in the craft.

Spectacle — Knight Fights, Viking Camp, Music

• Knight Fight Demonstrations — Choreographed battles with swords, shields, and historical weapons
• Viking Camp — Authentically furnished tent camps with reenactment groups
• Live Music — Medieval and folk-Scandinavian sounds on the central stage
• Free Viking Ship Rides on Kemnader See — a special attraction for children and families

Kemnader See — Recreation Oasis in the Ruhr Area

Kemnader See is a 3-kilometer long reservoir of the Ruhr river between Bochum and Witten — one of the most important local recreation areas in the Ruhr region. Hafen Heveney, with its 5-star campsite, boat rentals, surf school, and restaurant, is the best-known spot on the lake. The waterfront location makes the medieval spectacle a particularly photogenic event.

Admission — Deliberately Family-Friendly

The admission system favors those in historical attire:

• Adults: €9
• Children: €5
• Historically Dressed (medieval or Viking era): €7 for adults

Those who arrive in a leather jerkin, cloak, or chain pay the reduced price — a clever strategy by the medieval agency to enhance the festival's authenticity.