Shetland Amenity Trust unveils Up Helly Aa 2026 events
The fiery season will soon return and Shetland Amenity Trust is preparing a varied programme of events and extended opening times across its heritage sites to mark Up Helly Aa.
Shetland Museum and Archives will be at the heart of the celebrations, acting as a lively hub for Up Helly Aa enthusiasts. On Tuesday 27 January, the 2026 Lerwick Jarl Squad will make their popular visit to the museum at 3.30pm. Visitors will be able to watch the squad perform their Up Helly Aa song, meet them in person, and even try on a helmet or hold a shield. The event is free, but tickets are required and numbers are limited to 100. Tickets can be booked in advance from Tuesday 20 January. Earlier that day, from 2.00 – 4.00pm, the Junior Up Helly Aa galley will be on display outside at Hay’s Dock, offering an additional photo-opportunity.
Those keen to learn more about the origins of the festival and how it developed into the event we recognise today can join the museum’s ‘Origins of UHA’ tours, which will run daily from Tuesday 20 – Tuesday 27 January.
Younger visitors will also have the chance to join in the festivities. A ‘Peerie Vikings’ morning drop-in session will take place on Monday 26 January, giving pre-schoolers the opportunity to create their own Viking helmets, shield and torches.
There will be a treat in store for foodies on Sunday 25 January, when Shetland Food and Drink hosts a Taste of Shetland day at the museum from 11am – 5pm. The event will feature cooking demonstrations and local food stalls.
A new exhibition will also be open celebrating the craftsmanship of Bobby Simpson, a gifted Shetland hobbyist whose keen observational skill shaped his hand-carved figures in wood, cork and driftwood. From vikings to kishie-carrying islanders, and depictions of Jarls through the years, his carvings reflect Shetland heritage and local materials.
Beyond Lerwick, Old Scatness Broch and Iron Age Village will welcome visitors on Wednesday 28 January, with guided tours exploring the myth and legend of this heritage site. Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and Visitor Centre will also open from Sunday 25 to Friday 30 January (closed on Monday & Tuesday), giving visitors the chance to experience dramatic winter scenery while exploring the lighthouse and surrounding nature reserve.
Hazel Sutherland, chief executive of Shetland Amenity Trust said: “We’re delighted to once again open our heritage sites during Up Helly Aa and invite people to experience Shetland’s rich cultural and natural heritage. With a varied programme of events for all ages, from Viking-themed tours and local food to hands on family activities, there’s something for everyone and we look forward to welcoming visitors.”
Free foyer tickets for the Jarl squad visit to Shetland Museum and Archives will be released via the Shetland Museum Box Office at 2.00pm on Tuesday 20 January.
