google-site-verification: googlec7193c3de77668c9.html

Up Helly Aa: Europe’s biggest fire festival returns to Shetland

Advertisements

More than 40 groups, locally known as “squads”, march through the streets of Lerwick before throwing their torches at an ornamented wooden galley.

The celebrations then move to the many community halls, where they continue until as late as 07:00 the next day.

At the head of the procession is the “Jarl Squad” led by its chief, the Guizer Jarl. Its members, who become Vikings for the day, wear custom-made suits, axes and shields.

For Calum Grains, who had to wait for 17 years to take up his position as the 2025 Guizer Jarl, the last Tuesday in January is always a special day.

“Up Helly Aa is such a great community event – it marks the end of that winter period and we are starting to look forward to the new year again,” he said.

“It’s one of these huge things that make Shetland unique.”


BBC News

Views: 1

See also  More women needed in judicial roles - Lady Dorrian

Check Also

Firefighters tackle blaze at block of flats in Edinburgh

Six fire engines and a height vehicle were called to Dalry Road where one person …

Queen’s: Cameron Norrie beaten by Alejandro Davidovich Fokina but Arthur Fery through

Cameron Norrie was beaten by Alejandro Davidovich Fokina at Queen’s in the Briton’s first singles …

Best shots as GB's Norrie beaten by Davidovich Fokina

Watch the best shots as Britain’s Cameron Norrie falls to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina in the …

Leave a Reply

Available for Amazon Prime
Fishing boat transport. heavy equipment transport st.