Tailgating with the Viking World Order is like stepping into another world—part Norse mythology, part football fanaticism, and entirely unforgettable. On gameday in Minneapolis, just outside U.S. Bank Stadium, fans gather in full Viking regalia: fur cloaks, horned helmets, painted shields, and custom armor. There’s no mistaking a VWO tailgate for anything else. It’s a spectacle of purple and gold, a celebration of team loyalty, and a gathering of one of the most passionate and tight-knit fan organizations in the NFL.

Founded in 1997, the Viking World Order was created by fans who believed supporting the Minnesota Vikings was more than just a pastime—it was a way of life. Over time, what started as a diehard group of costumed superfans evolved into a brotherhood with its own structure, rules, and rituals. Earning membership in the VWO is no small feat. Fans must first prove their dedication to the team and to the group, submitting a written biography and earning the endorsement of current members. The process culminates in a public knighting ceremony—a dramatic and heartfelt moment where prospective members kneel before the altar, receive their VWO title, and pledge a lifetime of loyalty to the team and the brotherhood. It’s a powerful ritual that often ends in tears, cheers, and more than a few permanent tattoos commemorating the moment.

On any given Sunday, you’ll find the VWO tailgate stationed just outside the stadium or holding court at their home base—the Twin Cities 400 Tavern at the Delta Hotel in northeast Minneapolis. As fans approach, they’re greeted by the sound of the Gjallarhorn, the smell of grilled brats and smoked meats, and the unmistakable energy of a tribe preparing for battle. Members like Sir Crusher, Lady Freyja, and Sir Death don elaborate costumes and pose for photos with fans from both teams, offering a warm welcome to anyone who shows respect. It’s an interactive experience that blends the theatrical with the communal, drawing crowds who come for the show but stay for the camaraderie.

The Viking World Order doesn’t just represent fandom—they embody it. Their influence stretches far beyond the tailgate lot. VWO members helped rally public support for the construction of U.S. Bank Stadium, even appearing at the state capitol to lobby lawmakers. They’ve brought their tradition on the road, making appearances at games across the country and overseas, including London. And while their look may be fierce, the heart of the group is grounded in generosity. Charity work is a cornerstone of their mission. The VWO regularly supports causes like the Minnesota Children’s Hospital, Second Harvest Heartland, Hope Lodge, and the Veterans Home in Hastings. Whether visiting sick children or delivering food to those in need, the Viking World Order lives by a code of honor, integrity, and respect.

For the Viking World Order, gameday is sacred. It’s a time to celebrate community, heritage, and shared passion. And while the armor, horns, and chants might turn heads, what truly defines this group is the bond between its members and the joy they bring to others. In a city that knows how to weather the cold, the VWO brings the heat every Sunday—loyal to the core, larger than life, and forever SKOL.