Viking festival to honour Grimsby's roots and the strange tale of Grim the Viking

Grim FalFest, meaning a feast of the fall (or autumn), is to be held from September 8 to 10.

The full schedule has now been revealed, including a dramatic opening show with two Viking longboats lighting up the River Haven, complete with a procession, drummers and a lit beacon, before a weekend of activities.

Besides gripping battles, there will be horse and weaponry displays, living history encampments, shows with archery, training for young warriors, a grand parade to close the event, as well as food and crafts.

Alysha Sargent, event manager for Grim FalFest, said many legends surround the 1,000-year-old story of Grim, and this was a chance to celebrate a little-known piece of history.

"Grim was a Danish fisherman, who saved Prince Havelok of Denmark from the sea, and brought him to Grimsby," she said.

"He named the town after himself.

"The word 'by' comes from village, so what we have is the 'village of Grim'. I'm from Grimsby myself, and I never knew.

"What we are famous for is our fishing heritage. This is a great opportunity to celebrate our Viking heritage, and make sure people are aware of the story."

The first festival, held last year, attracted more than 22,000 visitors.

With regeneration work affecting Riverhead Square, this year’s event will focus on the waterfront, St James’ Square and People’s Park.

"It's great for kids to get involved, and really get stuck in," said Ms Sargent. "We've got the stories, a sense of the role Vikings played in our history.

"This should be a really good celebration of our Viking heritage, a show of our pride in Grimsby, and a great day out. It's a great period in history."

The event is supported and funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and organised by the Visitor Economy Services and Retail group (VESR CIC) and Heritage Lincolnshire.

Julia Thompson, chair of VESR CIC, said: “With celebrations taking place in Grimsby town centre and People’s Park, the return of Grim and his Vikings promises to be a packed three days for everyone to enjoy and find out about our Viking heritage.

"Grim FalFest was enjoyed by so many families last year and gave a huge boost to our local community and businesses.

"It will be great to see that exciting atmosphere return to Grimsby town centre once again. We’d also welcome local businesses to join and help celebrate the return of Grim and his Vikings.”