Summary
Indeed, Up Helly Aa is as intense as it appears. Crowds of spirited Vikings and their flaming ships descend upon the Shetland Islands annually, creating a chaotic spectacle within the local community that may have found itself besieged by these adventurous marauders in an earlier era. This is an extraordinary opportunity to engage with Up Helly Aa in Scotland.
Fortunately, the era of chaotic and turbulent Vikings has long since concluded; however, the tradition of Up Helly Aa remains robust and vibrant.
The entire festival is astounding and serves as an excellent opportunity to discover some of the premier locations in Scotland.
When does “Up Helly Aa” commence?
For centuries, the Shetland Islands in Scotland have celebrated Up Helly Aa during the mid-winter period. In recent decades, this has occurred on the 28th of January.
This marks the conclusion of the Yule season (which corresponds to the traditional Scottish Christmas period) and is an ideal time to participate in Up Helly Aa.
It is difficult to conceive a more effective means of expending the additional calories accumulated during the festive period than by assisting in the maneuvering of a four-ton Viking vessel across the islands. Ha!
What do “Vikings” do at this festival?
Thousands of participants, known as guizers, take to the streets in numerous main towns across the Shetlands to honor this remarkable tradition!
Each year, a new Viking ship is meticulously constructed by local craftsmen, especially for Up Helly Aa, and during the festival, these individuals are affectionately termed The Jarl Squad.
As twilight descends on the 28th of January, anticipation builds across the islands.
Countless traditional torches are ignited while flames illuminate the surroundings, representing one of the finest ways to experience Up Helly Aa.
Both locals and visitors are encouraged to responsibly engage in the festivities, creating a remarkable experience for all involved. Each participating group, or “squad,” selects their unique identity, which may be characterized as intimidating, amusing, or traditional.
This selection is entirely reflective of the group’s personality.
As the atmosphere reaches a fever pitch, the Viking ship is towed to its predetermined location, wherein traditional Up Helly Aa songs are performed.
For those with aspirations of dazzling pyrotechnics, the entire community can participate by casting their torches into the vessel, igniting both the ship and the festive spirit into a rousing blaze.
What to drink at Up Helly Aa?
Prepare for the brisk, cold Scottish winter by enjoying a warm Scottish beverage.
After several hours of singing, hot toddies will commence to flow! This delightful concoction consists of traditional Scotch whisky, hot water, generous honey, cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice.
Local residents and visitors come together in various halls to celebrate; sometimes indoors, other times in the streets.
How to reach Up Helly Aa?
Up Helly Aa offers a glimpse into a truly authentic Scottish tradition! Although the Shetland Islands are located approximately 600 miles north of London (similar to the distance from London to Milan).
There are numerous ways to partake in the Up Helly Aa experience, and reaching the festival does not need to be a hurdle, as it is quite accessible.
With options ranging from direct flights from London to ferry journeys from Aberdeen or Orkney, the Shetland Isles also feature as a stop on various Nordic cruise ship excursions.
Do not worry if traveling to the Shetlands is unfeasible; the local government provides a live stream of the entire tradition on their website, allowing you to observe the festival from the comfort of your warm, cozy home.
Don’t Overlook…
No trip to the Shetland Isles would be complete without greeting their most renowned residents—the Shetland Ponies, of course.
Well, that is, after you immerse yourself in Up Helly Aa!
