Fire festival season
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2026 Fire Festival Highlights
Here are some of the key fire festival dates you can enjoy if you’re staying in Shetland this winter:
Scalloway Fire Festival — 9 January 2026
The first fiery event of the season and a beloved local tradition with a torchlit procession and galley burning by the sea.Lerwick Up Helly Aa & Junior Up Helly Aa — 27 January 2026
The most famous fire festival of all, with nearly 1,000 torch-bearers and an incredible Viking galley burning ceremony.Nesting & Girlsta Up Helly Aa — 6 February 2026
A vibrant community celebration with multiple halls of music, dancing, storytelling and fire.Uyeasound & Northmavine Up Helly Aa — 20 February 2026
Two unique festivals on different islands — each with its own feel and local charm.Cullivoe & Norwick Up Helly Aa — 27–28 February 2026
More fire, processions, and community celebrations in the Far North and Yell.Bressay Up Helly Aa — 6 March 2026
A more participatory festival: bring your own torch if you fancy joining in!South Mainland & Delting Up Helly Aa — March 2026
Wonderful celebrations in scenic rural parts of Shetland as the season winds down.Walls Junior Up Helly Aa — 27 March 2026 (TBC)
A heartwarming final festival where young guizers lead the way.
🔥 Why You Should Stay With Us
Whether you’re here for one fire festival or making a winter break of it, our cosy chalets are the perfect base:
✨ Unbeatable location — easy access to many of the festival events.
🔥 Warm, comfortable spaces — perfect after an evening out in the crisp winter air.
🌌 Aurora possibilities — stay up late, rest early, and keep an eye on the skies too!
There’s nothing quite like the combination of Shetland fire festivals, local hospitality, and winter nights by the fire — it’s an experience that stays with you long after the last torch is extinguished.
