Up Helly Aa
Introduction
Up Helly Aa is an annual fire festival held in various locations throughout Shetland, Scotland, with the most renowned event taking place in Lerwick. This festival, celebrated on the last Tuesday of January, marks the end of the Yule season and is a vibrant display of Shetland's Norse heritage. The event is characterized by a torch-lit procession, the burning of a Viking longship, and a series of evening celebrations. The festival is deeply rooted in the history and culture of the Shetland Islands, reflecting the region's unique blend of Scottish and Norse influences.
Historical Background
Origins
The origins of Up Helly Aa can be traced back to the 19th century, although its roots are embedded in much older traditions. The festival evolved from the ancient Norse custom of celebrating the end of the Yule season with fire and revelry. The term "Up Helly Aa" itself is derived from the Old Norse language, with "Helly" referring to a holy day or festival. The modern iteration of the festival began to take shape in the 1870s, when local residents sought to formalize and expand the celebrations.
Evolution of the Festival
Initially, Up Helly Aa was a relatively informal affair, involving local youths engaging in rowdy behavior, including the lighting of tar barrels. Over time, the festival became more organized, with the introduction of the Guizer Jarl, a central figure who leads the procession. The Guizer Jarl is typically a local resident chosen for their contributions to the community, and they assume the role of a Viking leader for the duration of the festival. The burning of a replica Viking longship, known as a "galley," was introduced in the late 19th century, adding a dramatic focal point to the celebrations.
Cultural Significance
Norse Heritage
Up Helly Aa serves as a celebration of Shetland's Norse heritage, which is a significant aspect of the islands' cultural identity. The festival's Viking themes, including the costumes, longship, and Norse mythology, highlight the historical connections between Shetland and Scandinavia. The event provides an opportunity for the community to honor their ancestors and maintain a connection to their cultural roots.
Community Involvement
The festival is a community-driven event, with extensive participation from local residents. Preparations for Up Helly Aa begin months in advance, with volunteers constructing the galley, creating costumes, and organizing various aspects of the celebrations. The event fosters a sense of community spirit and pride, as residents come together to create a memorable experience for both locals and visitors.
The Festival Day
Morning and Afternoon Activities
The day of Up Helly Aa begins with a series of morning and afternoon activities, including visits to local schools and care homes by the Guizer Jarl and their squad. These visits provide an opportunity for the community to engage with the festival's leaders and learn more about the event's significance. Throughout the day, participants prepare for the evening's main events, donning their Viking costumes and rehearsing for the procession.
The Procession
The highlight of Up Helly Aa is the torch-lit procession, which takes place in the evening. Hundreds of participants, known as "guizers," march through the streets of Lerwick, carrying flaming torches and singing traditional songs. The procession is led by the Guizer Jarl and their squad, who are dressed in elaborate Viking costumes. The atmosphere is electric, with the flickering torches casting a warm glow over the assembled crowd.
The Galley Burning
The procession culminates in the burning of the galley, a dramatic and symbolic act that marks the end of the Yule season. The longship is set alight amidst cheers and singing, creating a spectacular display of flames and smoke. This ritual is a nod to the Norse tradition of ship burials, where a deceased warrior would be sent to the afterlife aboard a burning vessel.
Evening Celebrations
Halls and Entertainment
Following the galley burning, participants and spectators retire to various halls throughout Lerwick for an evening of entertainment. These halls host a variety of performances, including music, dancing, and comedy acts. The festivities continue late into the night, with participants celebrating the successful conclusion of the festival.
The Role of the Guizer Jarl
The Guizer Jarl plays a central role in the evening celebrations, delivering speeches and leading the assembled crowd in traditional songs. The Jarl's squad also performs a series of skits and musical numbers, adding to the festive atmosphere. The role of the Guizer Jarl is a prestigious one, and the individual chosen for this position is often a respected member of the community.
Variations and Related Festivals
Other Up Helly Aa Celebrations
While the Lerwick Up Helly Aa is the most famous, similar festivals are held in other parts of Shetland, each with its own unique characteristics. These include the South Mainland Up Helly Aa, the Northmavine Up Helly Aa, and the Bressay Up Helly Aa, among others. Each festival reflects the distinct traditions and customs of its respective community, while maintaining the core elements of the celebration.
Influence on Other Festivals
The success and popularity of Up Helly Aa have inspired similar festivals beyond Shetland, particularly in regions with a strong Norse heritage. These events often incorporate elements of the Shetland festival, such as the torch-lit procession and the burning of a longship, while adapting the celebrations to fit local traditions and customs.
Conclusion
Up Helly Aa is a vibrant and enduring celebration of Shetland's Norse heritage, bringing together the community in a display of cultural pride and unity. The festival's rich history, dramatic rituals, and community involvement make it a unique and memorable event, attracting visitors from around the world. As a testament to the enduring legacy of the Norse influence in Shetland, Up Helly Aa continues to thrive, preserving and promoting the islands' cultural heritage for future generations.