Shetland's festive spirit

Published on Tuesday 20 May 2003 01:00

Up Helly Aa

The year begins with this tribute to Shetland’s Viking heritage. The largest of the celebrations is staged on the last Tuesday in January when a procession of flaming torches is carried through the streets of Lerwick led by the Jarl Squad in full Viking costume. A full-size replica longship is then set alight. Then the revelry really begins.

The partying perhaps doesn’t go to the lengths that the Vikings might have gone, but it’s certainly an enjoyable way to warm up a cold January night.

Shetland Folk Festival

You’ve just missed the Shetland Folk Festival, which is held every April. Thinking ahead, next year will see the same mix of local performers and guest musicians from around the world.

Shetland Accordion and Fiddle Festival

This keeps October toe-tapping to reels, jigs and marches. With events taking place throughout the islands, the highlight is the Grand Dance, where up to a dozen bands play virtually non-stop.

Walking Festival

WalkSHETLAND runs from August 30 to 10 September this year. There is week-long exploration of the islands featuring a fascinating range of walks, which are physically invigorating but have distractions along the way as guides explain Shetland’s history, wildlife, geology and archaeology.