SMUHA jarl squad lights up Edinburgh

30 December 2025 13:15

A group of people dressed in Viking-style costumes march at night holding large flaming torches during a festival or parade.

The South Mainland Up Helly Aa jarl squad in fine form in Edinburgh. Photo: Ian Georgeson

THE 2025 South Mainland Up Helly Aa jarl squad helped to light up Edinburgh last night (Monday) to kick off the city’s Hogmanay celebrations.

The squad – led by jarl Michael Farmer – took part in a parade through the Scottish capital alongside thousands of others, with many folk holding small torches.

The torchlit parade was led by Hearts and Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon, who incidentally is said to have family links to Unst.

Not just a one day affair, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations includes music and comedy events tonight before the main party takes places tomorrow.

A woman dressed in historical or fantasy attire holds a flaming torch and shield, smiling at night during an outdoor event or festival.

Photo: Ian Georgeson

A group of people dressed in Viking costumes hold burning torches and shout during a nighttime event.

Photo: Ian Georgeson

A group of people holding lit torches stand together outdoors at night, surrounded by flames and darkness.

Footballer Craig Gordon (second from right, front row) leading the torchlit procession through Edinburgh. Photo: Ryan Buchanan

A group of people in costume march down a street at night, carrying torches and banners, surrounded by onlookers and trees.

Photo: Ryan Buchanan

A group of people in medieval-style costumes hold large flaming torches during a nighttime event.

Photo: Ryan Buchanan

A group of people dressed in Viking costumes march at night holding large flaming torches shaped like skulls.

Photo: Ryan Buchanan

A large crowd of people walk down a city street at night holding lit torches, with buildings and scaffolding visible on either side.

People were able to take part using small torches. Photo: Ryan Buchanan

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