Up Helly Aa 2026: Stunning photos capture burning of the Viking longship
The annual Shetland fire festival ended with the burning of a replica Viking galley.
Jan 29, 2026 - 07:48
Flames erupt against the night sky. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
Up Helly Aa’s burning of the galley was a spectacular sight.
Lerwick’s streetlights were switched off at 7.30pm as 981 guizers led a torchlight procession through the Shetland town.
This year’s Jarl Squad, led by Guizer Jarl Lynden Nicolson, were at the front of the festivities, which culminated in the lighting of a replica Viking galley.
950 torches were set alight and thrown into the handcrafted boat, engulfing it in flames and lighting up the night sky.
Months of preparation go into the galley, which is built and painted by a group of local volunteers.
Its design is a closely guarded secret until Up Helly Aa day, the last Tuesday of January.
All photo credits as noted below each.
The procession watches as the gallery burns. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
The gallery was engulfed in flames. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
Flames rose into the air as the gallery burned. Image: Kath Flannery/ DC Thomson.
Youngsters played their part in the procession. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
Flames filled the night’s sky. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
Lynden atop the Galley. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
Over 950 torches lit up the night sky. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
Over 950 torches lit up the night sky. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
Fire and smoke filled Lerwick. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
The procession got underway. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
Some were in fancy dress. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
The squad marching on. Image: Kath Flannery/DC Thomson
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