Lerwick, Shetland (The Torch Parade)
The Saga of Donny the Bold at Up Helly Aa
In Shetland, nearly 1,000 people in costume march with flaming torches, then set fire to a Viking ship. I wrote a saga.
Every January, Lerwick in Shetland holds Up Helly Aa, a fire festival. Nearly 1,000 costumed marchers carry flaming torches through town behind a replica Viking ship. Then they throw the torches into the ship. I wrote a saga about it, in the old style.
The Saga
In the dark month, Donny the Bold came over the sea to Lerwick, by ferry. The ferry had a very nice snack bar.
He beheld a mighty ship, built by the people of the town. “I shall sail it home,” said Donny the Bold.
Then came a thousand torches through the streets. “What a welcome,” said Donny. “Is this for me?”
It was not for him.
They carried the torches to the ship, and threw them in. Donny the Bold had questions.
The Ending
Nobody sails the ship. Volunteers build it by hand, and it burns in a single night. After that, everyone goes to parties in halls all over town, until very late.
I would never burn anything I built. I’d put my name on it, in big letters. But I have to admit, it was beautiful. It was also the warmest I’ve been in Shetland, in January, which is worth a saga of its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do they burn the ship?
That's how the festival ends. The ship goes up in flames, everyone sings, and then the parties start.
Were you a Viking?
An honorary one. My cape was the longest in Lerwick.