Torchlit Procession
Arrive early (by 18:30) to secure viewing spot; the torches create a dramatic visual against the night.
~19:00
Scalloway Fire Festival
Scalloway, United Kingdom
Jan 14 - 15, 2027ExpectedSource
Each January the old Shetland capital of Scalloway holds its Fire Festival, as residents carry blazing torches through the night behind a Guizer Jarl, ending in the burning of a replica Viking galley at the harbor. Rooted in Shetland's Norse heritage, it is among the earliest in the islands' chain of fire festivals.
Key moments
Day 1 · Jan 14
Galley Launch & Burning
Stand back at a safe distance along the harbor; the spectacle is impressive, and local stories often accompany the ceremony.
~20:30
Day 2 · Jan 15
Saturday Hop Night
Enjoy live music, dance, and mingle with residents; purchase tickets at hall doors (if required) and get in the spirit!
~21:00
Where it happens
Scalloway Boating Club
Scalloway, United Kingdom
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Plan the timing
Visitors may observe the procession and burning at a distance; do not enter procession area...
Respect local boundaries
Respect the community tradition; do not disturb participants during the ceremonial processi...
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Crowds gather along the procession route and at the slipway, but Scalloway’s small size keeps it from feeling overcrowded.
Weather
Cold, potentially wet weather; prepare with warm, waterproof clothing.
Transport
Stagecoach buses (e.g. service 4) connect Lerwick and Scalloway.
Tickets
Free events are available.
Safety & access
Generally very safe, well-organized community event with volunteer marshals.
Reviewed mediaCOMMUNITY COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Scalloway Fire Festival
Scalloway, United Kingdom
Each January the old Shetland capital of Scalloway holds its Fire Festival, as residents carry blazing torches through the night behind a Guizer Jarl, ending in the burning of a replica Viking galley at the harbor. Rooted in Shetland's Norse heritage, it is among the earliest in the islands' chain of fire festivals.
Under the radarStill under the radar
Jan 14 - 15, 2027Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
Rooted in Shetland’s Norse-descended traditions, Scalloway Fire Festival is one of the earliest in the chain of island fire festivals (Up Helly Aas). It began around the early 20th century and embeds Scalloway’s identity as a focal point of Shetland culture. The event reflects local pride and communal celebration of heritage at the depth of winter.
Key moments to know
Day 1Jan 142 moments
Day 1Jan 14~19:00Expected
Torchlit Procession
Arrive early (by 18:30) to secure viewing spot; the torches create a dramatic visual against the night.
Day 1Jan 14~20:30Expected
Galley Launch & Burning
Stand back at a safe distance along the harbor; the spectacle is impressive, and local stories often accompany the ceremony.
Day 2Jan 15
Day 2Jan 15~21:00Expected
Saturday Hop Night
Enjoy live music, dance, and mingle with residents; purchase tickets at hall doors (if required) and get in the spirit!
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Plan the timing
Visitors may observe the procession and burning at a distance; do not enter procession area or halls without in...
Respect local boundaries
Respect the community tradition; do not disturb participants during the ceremonial procession.
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Jan 14 - 15, 2027
Projected
City / Area
Scalloway
Scalloway, Shetland
Access
Shetland Mainland Airport (LSI) · 5 km from festival
Cost
Free entry
Budget: £50-70; Mid: £100-130; Comfort: £150+
Atmosphere
Festive and spirited atmosphere, with cheering crowds and music dur...
Crowds gather along the procession route and at the slipw...
Good for
Families, solo travelers
Very High visitor welcome
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