About us

As human beings, we’ve been shaped by the systems and norms of modern society. When we step outside of these boundaries, we are often seen as "strange" or "different." But thanks to the rise of the Internet, information is now accessible to everyone, allowing us to question why we live the way we do and whether it is the most fulfilling path.

LARP, reenactment, living history, bushcraft, cosplay, and fantasy offer a break from the routine of modern life—a chance to reconnect with the way our ancestors lived. These activities bring us closer to nature, to storytelling, and to traditions that have endured for centuries. They encourage creativity and offer a more meaningful, slower pace of life, focused on what truly matters. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us feel disconnected from our heritage, and through these practices, we seek to reconnect the past with the present.

A person without history is like a tree without roots. By understanding our past, we gain a deeper perspective on our modern lives and can live with more purpose. While modern life certainly has its advantages, it also has its flaws—especially when it comes to meaning and fulfillment. By looking to history, we can break free from the limiting expectations of society. We can choose who we want to be and what we stand for. With the freedom of modern life and the wisdom of our ancestors, combined with the creativity of fantasy, we have the power to shape our own stories.

World-building has been a part of humanity for centuries. Our ancestors created myths and legends—such as the Edda and Beowulf—to explain the world around them. Today, world-building still plays a vital role in enriching our lives, as seen in the works of fantasy writers like J.R.R. Tolkien and George R.R. Martin. In role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, we build on the medieval world with fantasy elements like elves and dwarves. High fantasy, in its many forms, has always been part of our shared history.

These mythical creatures, though invented, are rooted in the cultures and stories of our ancestors and have evolved with us over time. Telling stories inspired by real historical events is also a centuries-old practice. All science fiction and fantasy ultimately come from our understanding of the past, which serves as the foundation for new worlds. History and fantasy are, and always have been, intertwined.

Why are we #HistoryRebels

We have a deep appreciation for history, but at the heart of it all is the freedom to fully enjoy your own role, story, and character. At Celtic WebMerchant, we provide everything you need to bring your story to life and add meaning to your journey—from elven ears to replica pottery. Every individual should have the liberty to connect with their character in their own way. Whether you’ve studied Viking history in depth or simply want to create your own interpretation of a Viking, you have the freedom to express it as you wish. Your ancestors lived so you could thrive and find happiness, and now it’s your turn to live the way you choose.

Join the ranks of over 80,000 History Rebels who have already embraced their journey!

We are #historyrebels: our core values for a better life:

Freedom

 At Celtic WebMerchant, we believe in the freedom to be who you want to be. True freedom means the ability to embrace your individuality, even if that means stepping away from the norms of society. Hobbies like LARP, reenactment, living history, and fantasy festivals might be misunderstood by some, but they are gaining more respect as people increasingly value the freedom to express themselves. You have the right to ignore the opinions of others about your appearance or lifestyle, as long as you don’t harm anyone else. Embrace your creativity and craft your own story.

Meaning

Modern life offers many conveniences, but it also comes with its own challenges, including a sense of emptiness. People today often feel disconnected from deeper purpose. The idea of "fate," something that guided our ancestors, has faded from modern thinking. This disconnection can create a gap between what you truly want from life and what society expects of you. More and more, people are seeking to add meaning back into their lives. A great place to start is by focusing on what truly matters to you. If you’ve been meaning to explore a new hobby or if you feel disconnected from your current circle, remember—it’s never too late to change your path and find the purpose you're looking for.

Depth

In today’s world, many people feel the absence of true depth in their daily interactions. It can often feel as though much of society is driven by materialism, superficial conversations, and a growing disconnection from our ancestors. To bring more depth into your life, it’s important to surround yourself with those who share your interests and passions. Take time to explore topics that interest you, learn about your ancestors, and enrich your conversations. This will help you form connections that are more meaningful and fulfilling.

Live slower

With the demands of modern life, many of us have become disconnected from a slower, more deliberate way of living. Work, obligations, and the rush of daily life can leave little room for enjoyment, relaxation or family. But it’s important to take time for the things that truly matter—whether that’s spending quality time with family and friends, enjoying your hobbies, or simply being present in the moment.

Return to nature
Our ancestors lived closely connected to nature, allowing them to understand and work in harmony with the world around them. In modern times, however, we’ve become increasingly disconnected from this bond. Nature has become a backdrop, a mere setting, while we focus on the busyness of daily life, partly losing the essence of our humanity. Nature is a peaceful refuge from the chaos and violence of the city, filled with people who have no connection with our way of life. Whether you're participating in a LARP event, immersing yourself in another time and place, or embarking on a solo hike through the rugged landscapes of Scotland or Sweden, it's important to take time to be in nature. These moments not only help us escape the hustle of modern society, but also reconnect us with our roots—the elements that shaped our ancestors. Nature reminds us of who we are and where we come from.

Strength
Our ancestors lived in harsh conditions, where survival was never guaranteed, and many never even reached adolescence. Life was a constant struggle, with dangers lurking at every turn. In those times, strength, resilience, and a powerful will were not just virtues—they were essential for survival. The ability to endure and overcome adversity was revered, and these qualities were passed down through generations. Let the strength of your ancestors serve as a source of inspiration in your own life. When faced with challenges and obstacles, remember that you carry within you the same determination and willpower that helped them survive against all odds. Their legacy is a testament to human perseverance, and by drawing on their strength, you can face whatever difficulties life throws your way with courage and resolve. Just as they adapted to and thrived in a world full of uncertainty, so too can you find the resilience to overcome your own struggles.

The Celtic WebMerchant Team

Everyone at Celtic WebMerchant shares a deep passion for LARP, history, reenactment, cosplay, and/or fantasy. Whether it's responding to your emails or packing your order, every task is carried out with care and enthusiasm by our specialists bringing over 20 years of experience. Our staff are paid according to the Dutch retail collective labor agreement (CAO). Unlike many LARP and reenactment stores, which often rely on unpaid work for their staff at festivals and in-store, under the guise of "volunteer work," we do not support such practices. Even those who work with us on a short-term basis, such as models, receive fair compensation for their time. By shopping with Celtic WebMerchant, you’re not only supporting quality products, but also fellow hobbyists like yourself.

Additionally, three-quarters of our team members are neurodiverse, with a special focus on supporting individuals with ADHD and autism, where we allow their specializations to shine. We strive to provide an inclusive and stimulating work environment for those who are not quite comfortable working in the anonymous world of big corporations and mass culture.

Projects
Over the years we have participated in many large and small projects, from museum to film and from escape room to living history. See below for a small selection of our customers:

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