Up Helly Aa! It sounds exciting, doesn’t it? Every year, when winter is ending, the Shetland Islands, located north of Scotland, light up with a unique fire festival. But what’s the reason for this special event?
Let’s go on an exciting adventure to find out what makes Up Helly Aa so special!
When is Up Helly Aa?
This festival isn’t just for one day. It’s a party that lasts for several weeks, ending with a big event on the last Tuesday of January in Lerwick, the main town in Shetland. But the joy of the festival shines in smaller places all over the islands, with their own parties happening from January to March.
How Did Up Helly Aa Start?
You might be surprised to learn that this festival, as we know it today, is quite new – it’s only about 150 years old! People think it grew from older celebrations of Yule, a time when folks would light big fires to celebrate the shortest day of the year. As years passed, these parties got bigger and started to include parts of Shetland’s amazing Viking past.
Why We Celebrate Up Helly Aa: A Multi-Faceted Festival
This festival is not just a fire party. It’s like a colorful blanket made from many different pieces.
- Celebrating the Return of Light: Winter in Shetland is long and dark. This event marks the slow comeback of the sun, a chance to say goodbye to the winter sadness with warmth and light. The burning ship is a symbolic goodbye to the dark and a cheer for the upcoming spring.
- Honoring Viking Ancestors: Shetland has an interesting Viking history. This festival is a way to feel a connection with these brave sailors who made the islands their home long ago. People dress up as Vikings, sing old songs, and the whole event feels like a trip to the past.
- Community Spirit: This fun fair is like a glue that keeps communities close. Groups visit places all over town, telling stories, doing short plays, and making friendships stronger. It’s a time for families and friends to get together and celebrate the history they all share.
The Purpose of Up Helly Aa: A Celebration of Life and Legacy
It’s a celebration of life itself. It’s about welcoming back the light, cherishing the past, and forging strong connections with your community. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest winters, there’s always a reason to come together and celebrate.
How Do You Celebrate Up Helly Aa?
This event is mostly for watching, with most of the fun happening around the Guizer Jarl’s group. But, there are ways to feel the joy of the festival even if you’re not taking part:
- Find a Public Viewing Spot: Many towns designate areas for the public to safely watch the torchlight procession and burning galley.
- Sample Shetland Delights: It’s a time for feasting! Local restaurants often offer special menus featuring traditional Shetland dishes like fish and chips, hearty stews, and delicious puddings.
- Immerse Yourself in the History: Visit the Shetland Museum in Lerwick to learn about the islands’ Viking heritage and Up Helly Aa’s fascinating history.
Ideas and Simple Ways to Celebrate Up Helly Aa (Even from Afar!)
If you can’t go to Shetland for attending the event? No worries! Here are some simple ways to celebrate the spirit of the festival:
- Host a Viking-Themed Party: Gather your friends and family, decorate with Viking-inspired decorations (think shields and helmets!), and enjoy a feast of traditional Shetland fare (fish and chips anyone?)!
- Learn About Viking Culture: Dive into books and documentaries to learn about the Vikings’ fascinating history, their mythology, and their way of life.
- Craft Your Own Viking Gear: Channel your inner Viking by making a simple helmet or shield out of cardboard. You can even design your own Viking battle cry!
- Listen to Up Helly Aa Music: Traditional music from Shetland is a big part of the festival. Look for some playlists online and let the fun music take you to the middle of the festival.
Up Helly Aa Quotes: Capturing the Festival’s Spirit
Here are some quotes that really show what the festival is all about:
- “Up Helly Aa is a celebration of community spirit, heritage, and the sheer joy of being alive.” – Local Shetland resident
- “The flames of Up Helly Aa warm not just our bodies, but also our hearts.” – Festival participant
- “Up Helly Aa is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there’s always light to be found.” – Shetland historian
Up Helly Aa Activities: Keeping the Flame Alive
This festival isn’t just a one-time party; it’s a feeling that lasts all year. Here are some activities to keep the joy going:
- Join a Jarl Squad (if you’re local): Becoming a guizer (participant) in a squad is a huge honor in Shetland. If you live there, consider joining a squad and participating in the year-long preparations and the main event.
- Support Local Shetland Artists: There are many skilled artists in Shetland who make beautiful festival-themed art, from paintings and statues to traditional knitted clothes. Think about helping them by buying a piece to keep the festival feeling alive in your house.
- Plan a Trip to Shetland: If this event has made you want to travel, think about planning a trip to Shetland in the future. You might not see the festival itself, but you can discover the islands’ Viking history, beautiful views, and welcoming peop
Up Helly Aa is a one-of-a-kind party, a bright show of Shetland’s spirit. It’s a reminder that even the coldest winters can’t put out the fire of community, tradition, and the happiness of seeing the light return.
So, the next time you think of this festival, remember, it’s not just a party; it’s a celebration of life itself.