Lots on offer from amenity trust for Up Helly Aa

SHETLAND Amenity Trust has released details about its full programme of events and extended opening times to celebrate Up Helly Aa at the end of the month.

It said Shetland Museum and Archives will be at the heart of the line-up, providing a “busy hub for Up Helly Aa enthusiasts”.

On the day itself (28 January) the jarl squad will make their usual visit to the museum at 3.30pm.

Visitors will have the opportunity to watch the squad perform the Up Helly Aa song, meet them in person, and even try on a helmet or hold a shield.

Although the event is free, tickets are required – with only 100 available.

These can be booked in advance from 12.30pm on Monday 20 January from the Shetland Museum box office.

Earlier on the Tuesday (28 January), from 11.45am – 2.45pm, the Junior Up Helly Aa galley will be on display outside at Hay’s Dock, providing an additional photo-opportunity.

For those curious to find out about the early settlers in Shetland and the impact Norse people brought to everyday life in Shetland, the museum is also running a series of ‘Viking Life in Shetland’ tours from Friday 24 – Tuesday 28 January.

A ‘Peerie Vikings’ drop-in session is also taking place on the Monday (27 January), giving pre-schoolers the chance to craft their own Viking helmets, shield and torches.

As previously reported, Shetland Food and Drink will host a special Taste of Shetland event in the museum from 11am to 6pm where visitors can enjoy a seafood shack, cooking demonstrations, and food stalls.

Adding a touch of nostalgia is a new photographic display showing images from the museum’s photo archive of Up Helly Aa scenes over the years from 1900 to 1965.

In the south end the Old Scatness Broch and Iron Age Village will welcome visitors on Wednesday 31 January, offering guided tours of the heritage site.

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Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and Visitor Centre will also open its doors from Saturday 25 to Friday 31 January (closed on Monday and Tuesday).

Shetland Amenity Trust chief executive Hazel Sutherland said: “We’re excited to once again open our heritage sites for Up Helly Aa and share Shetland’s incredible cultural and natural heritage.

“With a full programme of events for all ages, from Viking tours, to seafood, to family crafts, there’s something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming you.”

More information on the events can be found online.