Residents and visitors are invited to step back through the centuries as Lincoln’s Festival of History returns for a free, three-day celebration over the Early May Bank Holiday, from 2 to 4 May 2026.
Organised by the Events in Lincoln team at the City of Lincoln Council, the city-wide festival will transform Lincoln into four immersive historic zones, bringing pivotal moments of the city’s past vividly to life.
Running daily from 11am to 5pm, the festival will offer themed events, authentic living history displays and thrilling re-enactments across the city centre.
The Knight Academy
At St Paul in the Bail, the Knight Academy will transport visitors to the medieval era.
Set against the historic backdrop of St Paul in the Bail, attendees can take part in armoury drills and weaponry activities, try hands-on crafts such as grain grinding, purse making, and candle rolling, and explore replica medieval arms and armour.
The site will also host dramatic combat displays, as rival knights clash in battle throughout the day.
The Viking Arena
In City Square, the Viking Arena will celebrate Lincoln’s Norse heritage.
The Vikings first arrived in Lincoln in 865, establishing the city as one of their key strongholds. At the festival, tents filled with wares and weaponry will line the square, while visitors can try their hand at coin minting and calligraphy.
Fierce warriors will patrol the arena, with combat demonstrations taking place across the weekend.
The Norman Camp
Cornhill Square will host the new-for-2026 Norman Camp, offering a glimpse into life after 1066 when the Normans made Lincoln one of their most important power bases.
Visitors will be able to taste food from a Norman kitchen, view armour and weapons up close and discover how the Normans cooked, fought and survived during this transformative period in the city’s history.
The Roman Market
Meanwhile, Castle Square will become a bustling Roman Market, celebrating Lincoln’s origins as Lindum Colonia. Conquered by the Romans around AD50, Lincoln grew into a major settlement for retired soldiers.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can experience live demonstrations of ancient crafts including baking, carpentry, tile making, blacksmithing and weaving, offering a unique insight into daily life in Roman Britain.
Cllr Josh Wells, Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth at the City of Lincoln Council, said:
“Lincoln has an extraordinary story to tell, and the Festival of History is a fantastic way of bringing that story to life for residents and visitors alike.
“This free, family-friendly event not only celebrates the heritage that makes our city unique but also supports our local businesses and cultural venues by drawing people into the city centre over the bank holiday weekend. We are proud to deliver an event that showcases Lincoln’s past while contributing to its vibrant future.”
Returning for its third year, the Festival of History continues to grow as a major highlight in Lincoln’s events calendar.
Alongside the four themed zones, visitors can also enjoy activities and living history experiences at Lincoln Castle, captivating storytelling at the Museum of Lincolnshire Life and displays at Lincoln Cathedral.
This free, family-friendly event promises an unforgettable journey through time, celebrating the rich heritage that has shaped Lincoln into the city it is today.
For more information, visit the Events in Lincoln Facebook page.