Shetland is home to one of Scotland’s most unique winter festival, Up Helly Aa, which celebrated the islands Norse traditions. The procession begins with a spectacular parade of Viking warriors and guisers marching with flaming torches, before a replica longship is set alight.
However, during the summer months visitors can learn all about this fascinating tradition at the Up Helly Aa Exhibition in Galley Shed. The exhibition contains information on the history of Up Helly Aa with many photographs documenting the event. There is also an exhibition of Jarl Squad suits from the previous 10 years on display along with various other suits used by squads participating in the festival.
Visitors can watch a short film documenting the preparations and celebrations from Up Helly Aa of January that year. It provides an overview of the festival from start to finish providing an opportunity to raise many questions whilst viewing the exhibition.
