Val the Viking, a beloved Limerick character, has evolved into a new mascot and promotional ambassador for Limerick City and County Council.
“Val the Viking has become a wonderful symbol of Limerick’s creativity, history and community spirit. It was fantastic to see the reaction, and obvious excitement of the children at Limerick City Library as Val moved from being a character in a story into a real life mascot they could interact with. Their obvious excitement shows how Val has captured their imagination since he magically landed on modern Limerick shores in November of last year. I look forward to meeting Val at events across Limerick as he welcomes visitors and inspires young and old from our own community to take pride in Limerick,” said Mayor of Limerick, John Moran.
Originally launched in November 2025 as part of a community engagement programme, delivered in partnership with the Limerick Library service, Val the Viking quickly captured the imagination of children and families across the city and county.
More than 3,000 activity packs were distributed through library branches, helping young learners discover Limerick’s rich history, heritage and culture through storytelling, puzzles and fun activities.
Val’s return was celebrated with a special appearance at Limerick City Library, where he surprised a group of young visitors during a storytelling session, a fitting nod to the character’s library roots and the community partnership that brought him to life.
Born from Brand Limerick and rooted in learning, inclusion and community connection, Val’s origin story sees him and his Viking crew arrive in Limerick in 922 AD, before Val embarks on a magical journey through time to explore the energy, creativity and spirit of modern-day Limerick.
Now in his next evolution, Val is stepping off the page of the Discover Limerick Activity Book and into communities across Limerick, as a life-sized mascot.
Through a programme of appearances at attractions, events and key locations across the city and county, Val will help showcase everything that makes Limerick a vibrant place to live, work, study and visit.
“From the very beginning, Val was designed to encourage discovery, spark curiosity and celebrate what makes Limerick unique,” said Dr Pat Daly, Director General, Limerick City and County Council.
“Seeing him come to life as a mascot opens exciting new opportunities to engage with people of all ages, whether they’re attending an event, visiting an attraction or discovering Limerick for the first time. We look forward to seeing Val become a familiar and much-loved face across the city and county,” Dr Daly added.
As an official mascot and ambassador, Val will support promotional campaigns, tourism initiatives, events and celebrations alike, creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike.
From libraries and attractions, to festivals, activities and events, Val the Viking is ready to embark on his biggest adventure yet and inviting everyone to discover Limerick through the eyes of its newest and most enthusiastic ambassador.
