The senior processionThe abiding influence of the Vikings, who arrived in Shetland just over 1000 years ago, is celebrated on the last Tuesday of January every year, by the largest fire festival in Europe - "Up Helly Aa".

The Jarl in front of his burning galleyAfter a torch-light procession of up to a thousand "guizers" through the streets of Lerwick a full-size replica Viking longship is ceremonially burned. The "guizers" and onlookers then repair to local halls for a night of revelry, dancing and partying.

Summer visitors can get a flavour of this mid-winter extravaganza at the Up Helly Aa  exhibition in Lerwick where the regalia, props, costumes and a replica longship are on display.

We have devoted a couple of pages to describing the events of the day, using the example of the 1999 festivities:-