Highlands & Islands

Gallery: Our best photographs as Up Helly Aa celebrations begin in Lerwick

Squad member looking fierce in Viking uniform.

By David Mackay

January 31 2023, 3:14 pm

January 31 2023, 3:14 pm

A squad of Vikings has marched through the heart of Lerwick for the first time in three years for the return of Up Helly Aa.

The annual Shetland fire festival has been in the dark since 2020 due to the Covid pandemic.

Tonight it is due to burn as bright as ever before as the Aberdeen FC-inspired galley is lit by nearly 1,000 torches.

However, celebrations have been taking place through the day as the Viking squad paraded through the town, posing for photos with locals and tourists.

Keep checking back through the day as we add the best pictures from our photographer Wullie Marr.

Up-Helly-Aa morning parade from the Isleburgh Community centre to the town harbour, led by Guizer Jarl Neil Moncrieff.

The Jarl Squad marching through the streets of Lerwick.

Member of the junior Jarl Squad taking part in the procession.

Guizer Jarl’s proclamation.

The procession making it’s way through Lerwick.

A young member of the main Jarl Squad in traditional Up Helly Aa Viking uniform.

Guizer Jarl Neil Moncrieff with his dog, Tayla.

Kids lining the route to watch the parade.

Up-Helly-Aa morning parade march and chant through the streets.

Young member of the main Jarl Squad holding an axe.

Best beards on show.

Guizer Jarl Neil Moncrieff having a drink.

Junior Jarl Squad looking terrifying.

The galley waits as the Jarl Squad sing their songs in the Toll Clock Shopping Centre.

Jarl Squad heading to the British Legion.

A young member of the main Jarl Squad singing.

Jarl Squad member singing.

A young toddler dressed in an identical outfit.

Junior Guizer Jarl wielding an axe.

Beautiful Shetland scenery behind the Guizer Jarl.

Jarl Squad member cheers with axe.

Close up Jarl Squad member wearing the traditional Viking helmet.

Looking down at the huge parade.

Squad members having a great day.

Guizer Jarl Neil Moncrieff on the galley.

Jarl Squad group photo.

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