Shetland Amenity Trust’s unveils Up Helly Aa 2025 events

The fiery season will soon be back and Shetland Amenity Trust is putting together a packed schedule of events and extended opening times at its heritage sites to celebrate Up Helly Aa.

Shetland Museum and Archives will be at the heart of the line-up, providing a busy hub for Up Helly Aa enthusiasts. On Tuesday 28 January, the 2025 Lerwick Jarl Squad will make their popular visit to the museum at 3.30pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch the squad perform their 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 (which can be booked in advance from Monday 20 January from the Shetland Museum Box Office). Earlier that day, 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 running a series of ‘Viking Life in Shetland’ tours from Friday 24 – Tuesday 28 January.

Younger visitors can get involved in the fun too, with a ‘Peerie Vikings’ drop-in session on Monday 27 January, giving pre-schoolers the chance to craft their own Viking helmets, shield and torches.

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 – 1965.

There will be a treat in store for foodies on Monday 27 January, as Shetland Food and Drink host a special Taste of Shetland event in the museum from 11am – 6.00pm where visitors can enjoy a seafood shack, cooking demonstrations, and food stalls.

Further afield, Old Scatness Broch and Iron Age Village will welcome visitors on Wednesday 31 January, offering guided tours that uncover the myth and legend of this heritage site. Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and Visitor Centre will also open its doors from Saturday 25 to Friday 31 January, 10am - 4pm (closed on Monday & Tuesday), allowing visitors to soak up the dramatic wintry views while exploring the lighthouse and its nature reserve.

Hazel Sutherland, chief executive of Shetland Amenity Trust 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.”

Shetland Museum UHA foyer tickets for the Jarl squad visit will be released on Monday 20 January at 12.30pm on the Shetland Museum Box Office.