DenmarkFans of Viking history and culture will gather to socialize, do battle and barter at this weekend’s moot (market) on Moesgaard Beach, south of Aarhus.
Calling itself the oldest market of its kind in Denmark, the Moesgaard Beach moot re-creates an early Viking market. It is always held on the weekend closest to July 29, St. Olav’s Day, which honors the patron saint of Norway.
Riders on Icelandic horses and battling warriors show off their skills daily at noon and 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and visitors can try archery and other Norse skills. The market is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Entry is free.
Find more information on the Moesgaard Viking Museum and the moot at www.moesmus.dk. It has an English version.
LuxembourgStep back in time to medieval days Saturday to Aug. 7 in Vianden during the annual historical festival in the city castle.
The fortress shows some of the best architecture from the Romanesque and Gothic periods. On the grounds you’ll find troubadours and minstrels, jugglers, crossbow displays, dancing, medieval games and battles, flag throwers and falconers.
Craftsmen and women also will demonstrate and sell medieval goods. Events take place daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is 7.50 euros for adults and 2 euros for children. Youngsters under 6 get in free. Get more details at www.castle-vianden.lu.
EnglandTaste the best of British ales, ciders and perries, as well as the top international brews, at the Great British Beer Festival, which runs Tuesday through Aug. 6 in London’s Earls Court.
Known as the “biggest pub in the world,” the festival focuses on both the country’s smallest microbreweries as well as its better-known brands. International beers are offered at the Bières Sans Frontières bars, and there will be a judging of all draft American beers.
Glasses are available for 3 pounds (about $5), refundable when you leave the venue. Tutored beer tastings, music and auctions are all part of the festival. A “family room” will be open noon to 9 p.m. for those under 18 years. The family room will have children’s entertainers, video games and toys as well as soft drinks and snacks.
The festival is open 5-10:30 p.m. Tuesday, noon-10:30 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. Admission is 10 pounds (about $15). Get the full program at http://gbbf.camra.org.uk.
