Join us for the 6th gathering of the nerds!

MAY 22-24, 2026
NorseForged Gathering is an immersive fantasy faire where history collides with fiction, creating an unforgettable experience for cosplayers, gamers, and adventurers. This event is for all ages and those who still live with magic in their hearts.
NorseForged Gathering 6 Location:

Camp John J. Barnhardt

44184 Cannon Rd,
New London, NC 28127


A few shots from past events:

AN Immersive World

Step into a realm of unforgettable adventures

Community

The NorseForged Gathering emerged organically in 2022 from a humble desire: a blade smith with a huge shop wanted to host a D&D night for his friends. A simple online invite blossomed into an epic night of tabletop games, swordplay, vendors, food, and connections. This small event sparked something bigger – a "Gathering of the Nerds" where the community itself remains the true heart of the experience. Every year the event gets bigger and better, still being run by NorseForged and friends.

Content creators

Some of your favorite fantasy content creators will be joining us at NFG6, not just as guests, but as living parts of the story itself. These creators are being woven directly into the event’s lore, appearing as characters, champions, and storytellers whose presence helps shape the world unfolding around you. Throughout the weekend, you’ll have opportunities to meet them, interact with them in character and out, and experience the Gathering through their unique perspectives. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, this is your chance to step into a shared legend and connect with the creators who help bring fantasy to life.


Live Performances

Throughout the Gathering, live music helps shape the atmosphere from morning until night, filling both the main stage and the roads between encampments with sound rooted in fantasy, folk, and warrior spirit. Guests will experience performances all weekend from incredible artists such as Ally the Piper and Harp Twins + Volfgang Twins, alongside music that appears unexpectedly throughout the grounds as performers move through the Gathering itself. In addition to the main stage, several special shows will also take place inside the Tavern, creating smaller immersive moments where music and atmosphere come together in a more intimate setting. Across the weekend, guests will also encounter breathtaking live entertainment including fire performers, rope artists, contortionists, and other specialty acts that bring movement and wonder into the heart of the event. For everything that happens after dark—including the unforgettable nighttime energy, special performances, and immersive evening experiences—be sure to explore the Themed Nights.

Beyond the stages, the world of the Gathering lives through its lane performers and roaming NPCs, who are not simply there to be seen—they are part of the experience itself. As you travel through camp and village roads, you may meet wandering characters, guild members, mysterious travelers, and interactive performers who invite conversation, quests, laughter, and unexpected moments. These living pieces of the Gathering help transform the event into something immersive, where the world feels active, unpredictable, and alive around every corner.

Night life

When the sun goes down, the party isn't over. We will be having an event every night of the weekend. Live music on our epic stage, fire performances, and more to come and be announced!

Friday - May 22: Nerd Prom
7pm - 10pm @ Main Hall

Saturday - May 23: Metal & Fire
8pm - 12pm @ Main Stage

Sunday - May 24: Closing Ceremony
7pm - 9pm @ Main Stage

Activities & Encampments

Norseforged Gathering 6 offers a full world of adventure from dawn to dusk, with experiences around every corner of the grounds. Test your mettle on the climbing tower, axe throwing lanes, and archery range, or raise a horn at the tavern while enjoying hearty food and mead. During the day, explore the giant gaming hall for D&D, Magic, Warhammer, and more, encounter wolves, falconry and reptile handling, and let the halflings loose in the dedicated kids’ adventure zone where they can go on quests and craft.

Watch—or join—a thrilling buhurt tournament, step into a fighting pit or larp-style competition, and take on strength challenges in the Trials of Ragnarok. Encampments scattered across the grounds bring the world to life with activities and shows, including Tank’s Training Grounds, mermaids in their tank, mischievous fairies placing bounties, pirate crews, many camps offer , and the Blacksmithing Guild offering demonstrations. Every path leads to a new story, challenge, or spectacle—waiting for you to step in.

Quests & LOre

Quests are the beating heart of the experience—living storylines woven throughout the grounds that invite you to step fully into your chosen character. Whether you’re a wandering mercenary, curious scholar, mischievous rogue, or noble champion, quests pull you into a shared narrative where choices matter and adventures unfold in real time. Follow cryptic clues, interact with performers and guilds, solve puzzles, train your skills, and uncover secrets hidden across the event. Every path offers chances to earn rewards, forge alliances, and leave your mark on the world we’re building together.

These quests aren’t just activities—they’re an invitation to escape the daily grind and live inside a story for a weekend. As you level up through challenges, you’ll meet fellow adventurers, join guilds, discover strange foods and powerful trinkets, and find yourself swept into moments of magic, laughter, and triumph. Whether you’re here to roleplay deeply, create content, or simply explore at your own pace, the quests of NorseForged are designed to make you feel free, immersed, and part of something bigger—a place where nerds unite, imagination reigns, and the adventure never truly stops.

Explore the grounds

A stall with unique jewelry and trinkets.
Unique Treasures

Curiosities & Crafts

Browse a curated selection of high-quality, handcrafted goods from skilled artisans in our bustling marketplace. Discover unique treasures to enhance your fantasy experience. Find everything from costumes and jewelry to weapons and home décor, all inspired by historical and fantasy worlds.

Artists, crafters, and makers: Want a booth at NFG6 to sell your creations?

Apply here
Nourishment

Abundant Food & Drink

Discover a wide variety of culinary delights at our food stalls. From hearty meals to refreshing drinks, we've got something to satisfy every craving. We are committed to providing options for various dietary needs. Plus, enjoy delicious food and locally sourced beverages that celebrate the region's flavors! There will be plenty of potions and treats throughout the event to keep your energized.

Are you interested in be a food or drink vendor at NFG6?

Apply Here
A delicious looking feast of meats, breads, vegetables and a custom made NorseForged knife.
A minstrel playing music surrounded by onlookers.
play your favorite games

Gaming hall

Connect over cards and dice at NorseForged Gathering 6! Our expanded gaming hall offers a dedicated space for tabletop role-playing games, like Dungeons and Dragons, as well as, your favorite card games, like Magic the Gathering. Find new opponents, forge alliances, and share tales of victory (or glorious defeat!).

Sign up and reserve a spot
Camping

Rest when weary

Camp Under the Stars: Extend your NorseForged adventure with on-site camping in a wooded setting. Camping passes required (Make sure to buy the tickets "with camping"). These are primitive campsites, ideal for tents – wagons recommended for getting load in and load out.

Please read our page on the campgrounds.

Premier Tent Rentals: Upgrade your camping experience! Enjoy a canvas tent on an elevated platform, closest to the event. Includes 2 camping passes and comfortably sleeps 2. Limited availability – reserve yours now!

However, please note that RV and camper parking is not permitted, ensuring the area remains comfortable and accessible for all guests.

A camping site with a fire going and smoke rising. In the background is a picnic table.
Guidance Forged

Frequently asked questions

The most common Gathering questions and answers.
Can I just buy tickets at the gate?
We are no longer going to be allowing ticket purchases at the gate. All tickets will be need to be bought ahead of time or before approaching the front gate. The front gate will only be doing check in's for tickets that are already purchased. No cash will be accepted for tickets.
Can we bring our own alcohol?
The Gathering promotes responsible alcohol consumption. Outside alcohol is not permitted on the event grounds, but allowed at your campsite for camping pass holders if kept at the campsite. Licensed vendors will sell alcoholic beverages within the event. Absolutely no illegal substances are allowed. Vendors will check IDs, and no one under 21 will be served alcohol. Bartenders reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who appears intoxicated for everyones safety.
Can we bring weapons?
YES! Swords, axes, spears, etc are welcome at the gathering! We understand that weaponry is integral to certain costumes and cosplays and we appreciate the authenticity! However, we do require ALL weapons to be zip tied for the duration of the event, and when traveling to and from campgrounds. LARP and boffer weapons are exceptions to that rule, as long as combat REMAINS in the designated areas.
Can I leave my children during activities?
No. Children (under 12) must be accompanied by someone 16 years or older at all times. One adult may be supervising multiple children. Our staff and volunteers will not be responsible for supervising children. We do not offer babysitting services.
Is camping allowed?
Camping is available on-site, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere and enjoy the convenience of being close to all the activities and attractions. However, please note that RV and camper parking is not permitted, ensuring the area remains comfortable and accessible for all guests. Camping pass required to stay overnight. Camping passes will be obtained at check in at the event.
What do I do if I have a medical problem?
A medical tent will be on-site for assistance. Medically trained staff will be present throughout the event. In case of emergency, an ambulance will be called to transport guests to the nearest hospital.
Can I bring my pet?
No. There may be live animals on display including wolves, owls, ravens etc on site.  For saftey reasons no pets are allowed (even emotional support animals), with the ONLY exception of trained service animals.The event is being held on private property, which a strict rule on no outside animals.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
YES! Wheelchair and stroller access may be somewhat limited due to this being mostly an outdoor event. The Main hall, Merchants square, and restrooms have good wheelchair access.  Some areas such as the campgrounds, may be more difficult to access and if there is rain or wet areas navigation could be more difficult.
What is the best form of payment?
There is no ATM on site to get cash. Most vendors do take credit cards but running cards can be slow depending on connection.  Ideally you should bring cash.
Our blog

The Gathering Blog

Explore our chronicles blog for epic tales, fantasy lore, roleplaying and Gathering updates.
A selection of NorseForged t-shirts.

Gaming Hall NFG6

Get ready for epic tabletop adventures at the NFG6 Gaming Hall! Learn how to sign up for games, join the Discord, and dive into Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, board games, and more throughout the weekend.
A selection of NorseForged t-shirts.

Children's Adventure Zone at NFG6

NorseForged Gathering 6 debuts a brand-new Children’s Adventure Zone and Quest, where young adventurers learn the basics of tabletop gaming, explore camp-wide activities, and earn knighthood in the NorseForged Nerd Army.
Skadi Oakenlake
February 25, 2026
A selection of NorseForged t-shirts.

Camping at NFG6

A comprehensive guide to camping at NFG6
Aly / NorseWife
December 30, 2025