Næstveds Søjler

Næstveds Søjler ("The Pillars of Næstved")

Photo: Christian Lindgren

A Medieval Festival in Næstved on June 21-22, 2025!

”Næstveds Søjler” takes place in the area around and in St. Peter's Church and St. Morten's Church, as well as around “Boderne” (The Stalls) and on the large parking lot, colloquially known as “Den fritlagte Suså” or Bredstræde Parking lot.

Photo:Mads Tolstrup

Medieval Festival in Næstved

Come and experience the colors, scents, sounds, and vibrant atmosphere! Næstveds Søjler takes place on June 21-22, 2025, but from June 20, events in the city center will set the stage for two days of entertainment and exciting activities. Entry to the festival grounds and all activities is free—offering a perfect opportunity to step back into Danish medieval times.

This year’s festival features spectacular highlights: a grand long-table feast, medieval combat demonstrations, a show by the Nivå crossbow group, a stick horse tournament, and once again, an impressive falconry show. Falcons, dogs, and horses will be present all weekend! 

For those who prefer less dramatic experiences, the Næstved Museum Association has curated a fascinating exhibition on the city's five monastic orders from the 12th century. You can also get creative in the medieval makerspace, where you can craft medieval-inspired items using modern materials. And as a new feature at this year's festival, there is an exhibition showcasing artifacts from Næstved's trading history. The artifacts are on loan from Museum Southeast Denmark and the National Museum.

In the basement, you will find Café Buxeløs, where you can buy a cup of coffee and delicious medieval cakes if hunger strikes or you simply need a caffeine boost.

The festival site is buzzing with activity! Experience the unique folk atmosphere, take a seat as a member of the audience, and witness the knights' tournament or listen to street musicians. Visit the medieval churches in town, experience street theater, and make sure to pass by "The Stalls".

The Medieval Cultural House invites you inside for small concerts, mulled wine, and short performances that will undoubtedly give you a taste of the history of the Middle Ages in Næstved and Denmark. 

 

 

Activities and performances

The festival grounds are buzzing with activities! Experience the unique medieval atmosphere, watch thrilling jousting tournaments, or enjoy the performances of street musicians. Visit the city’s medieval churches, watch street theater, and explore the marketplace.

The Medieval Culture House invites you to small concerts, mulled wine, and short performances that will immerse you in Næstved and Denmark’s medieval history. A new addition this year is an exhibition about the five monastic orders that existed in Næstved in the 12th century.

What comes to mind when you think of a medieval festival? Knights, nuns, tricksters, monks, or plague doctors? The festival grounds are filled with historical characters straight out of a movie. On Saturday, a festive parade with Avant Garden will march through the city—just follow the music!

Although the main festival days are Saturday and Sunday, there are also exciting events on Friday. Visit the small marketplace in the garden of Helligåndshuset and on Hjultorvet. On Friday evening, a grand long-table feast with a medieval theme will take place from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM in Ringstedgade. - buy your ticket here.

Photo:Mads Tolstrup

Photo:Mads Tolstrup

Where to stay?

You might consider spending a few nights in Næstved to experience all the other things the city has to offer. There are several excellent accommodations in Næstved and its surrounding areas, whether you're into hotels, camping, or bed & breakfast. You can find the perfect place to stay with the guide below:

Where to eat?

Don't miss out on the many great culinary experiences Næstved has to offer. In the city, you'll find restaurants perfect for quality time with your significant other, as well as cozy and relaxed cafés, and an inspiring American diner. Start looking for your next dining spot with the suggestions below:

Transportation

Næstved can be reached by both car and public transportation. There are excellent train connections to Næstved for those coming from Copenhagen, as well as for those arriving from the South. Plan your journey at Rejseplanen.dk.

Næstved City has multiple parking spaces around the center where you can place your car until it's time to leave. You can find more information about parking in Næstved here.