We are a small but growing group, located in Toronto, Ontario, dedicated to living and experiencing the History of the Viking Age (800AD to 1100 AD) in the lands surrounding the Baltic Sea and beyond. The present day nations of Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Norway and Sweden are our sources of inspiration and information.

We are dedicated to learning (through individual and group research) the history, skills and crafts of the Viking age; and to educating and entertaining the public. Through talks on history and culture; workshops on skills and crafts; and weapons and combat demonstrations we bring history alive. TorVik has participated in cultural festivals, carnivals, ethnographic presentations and at international weapons training and living history weekends.

TorVik (like all successful Viking Age groups) was founded in a pub. From that first meeting in December 2002, we have grown considerably in experience. In June 2003, TorVik officially joined The Vikings . As members of The Vikings, and one of the founding groups of The Vikings Vinland, we have at our advantage the experience of those that have sailed before us and the assistance and encouragement of those of us setting our sails for the first time.

Our members have attended weapon training sessions in Kansas City, MO, and San Antonio, TX. Attended and participated in battles at events in Hastings, England; Gimli, Manitoba; Richmond Hill, Ontario; Mount Red Deer Park, Alberta; and Kiel, Wisconsin. We have hosted Canada's only international Viking training weekends two years running!

Recreating history is a very exacting and exciting hobby. It is not a pick and choose type of hobby where one plucks items and characteristics from differing cultures and eras. You cannot rationalize an 9th century brooch from the Ukraine with a 7th century weapon from Spain with a 10th century Scandinavian costume made of polyester and sequins and call it Viking. A time and period and culture is chosen and studied and all attempts are made to accurately portray the life of the individual.

Authenticity is important to us. Fabric colours and weaves and the subsequent patterns are chosen on a historic basis. Jewellery and accessories are reproductions of period originals. Weapons and armour are based on archaeological finds. Home life is accurately portrayed through living quarters, utensils, foods and furniture.

It all seems a little excessive. Why would anyone go to so much trouble to play dress up?

Because learning about the histories of peoples, the techniques used and the lands traveled is part of the fun.

We want to know how and why. We want to learn how to do the things they did. We want to be those people (at least part time). Spinners, Weavers, Seamstresses and Tailors. Blacksmiths, Coopers and Cobblers. Wood and Leather Workers. Armourers and Jewellers. Crofters and Horseriders. And of course everyone's favourite…… Warriors!

Swords, Spears, Axes and Seaxes. Shields and Helmets.
The Battle Cry and the Clang of Steel. The cries of the wounded and dying.
The cheers of victory. The thrill of being the last man standing.

Having braved the icy waters and endured a millennia of civilization…the Vikings are set to return and wreak havoc upon all who dare to get in their way.
If living history and live steel combat interests you, then we want to hear from you!
Please email us

Torvik is available for shows/events. Please see Events page for details

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