The Victorian Medieval Festival returns to Ballarat celebrating 50 years of jousting in Australia
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10.11.2023

The Victorian Medieval Festival returns to Ballarat celebrating 50 years of jousting in Australia

Words by Staff Writer

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of jousting in Australia, next Saturday the 18th and Sunday the 19th of November will see visitors step back in time to the Middle Ages with jousting knights, battle-axing Vikings, fireballs being catapulted, birds of prey, and much more!

In a spectacle fit for kings and queens, the knights are gearing up to clash in a historic jousting tournament at Kryal Castle in Ballarat. As the iconic castle commemorates 50 years of this medieval tradition, the annual Victorian Medieval Festival promises a weekend of epic battles, living history, and family-friendly fun on 18-19 November.

Prepare to be transported back to the Middle Ages as armoured knights vie for the title of jousting champion on the hallowed grounds of Kryal Castle. The festival will showcase Viking battles, mesmerising jousting tournaments, and a bustling living history village, offering a vivid glimpse into life during this remarkable era.

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.

The festival coincides with the 50th anniversary of jousting in Australia, and thousands are expected to join the celebration in the picturesque Central Highlands of Victoria, just an hour from Melbourne.

Resident Kryal Castle knight, Phil Leitch, promises that this year’s jousting tournament will be the biggest Australia has ever seen. Reflecting on the sport’s humble beginnings in 1973, Leitch remarks, “It will be a hard-fought competition and an honour to celebrate half a century of jousting in this country.”

Aussie jousting has come a long way since those early days, with over 30 competitors nationally. Witness the thundering charge of mighty steeds as jousters clash in a brutal yet awe-inspiring tribute to the history of this noble sport.

The family-friendly Victorian Medieval Festival has something for everyone, including:

  • Spectacular jousting knights
  • Authentic medieval merchants
  • Traditional birds of prey show
  • Full VIP experience tickets available (limited)
  • A living medieval village with over 150 historical re-enactors
  • Night food market and tavern
  • A trebuchet (medieval catapult)
  • Kids’ activities, including knight’s school, archery, demonstrations, displays, and hands-on learning experiences

Don’t miss out on this grand celebration – tickets for the Victorian Medieval Festival are on sale now. As numbers are limited, it’s recommended to pre-purchase tickets to secure your spot for a weekend of medieval marvels.

The festival, proudly presented by Kryal Castle, promises an unforgettable journey through time and a salute to 50 years of jousting excellence in Australia.

Victorian Medieval Festival tickets are all-inclusive and on sale now. Numbers are limited and are pre-purchase only, no tickets will be available at the gate. Get your tickets here