From music to knitting to fire festivals, this guide has all you need to know. You’re sure to find something for you.
Shetland, the stunning archipelago nestled in the North Sea, offers a unique and culturally rich destination for adventurous souls. While it’s best known for its breathtaking landscapes and annual Up Helly Aa fire festival, Shetland also hosts an array of other vibrant festivals that will add an extra layer of excitement to your journey. In this guide, we’ll delve into the heart of Shetland’s Festivals scene and explore what makes each of them a must-visit for solo travellers, helping you decide when your best time to visit Shetland is.
1. Shetland Festivals: Up Helly Aa – A Fiery Tradition
Up Helly Aa, Shetland’s fiery annual extravaganza, sets the winter skies ablaze in Lerwick every last Tuesday of January. For 2024 this means the event takes place on Tuesday January 30th.
Rooted in tradition, it serves as the grand finale of the Yuletide festivities – a day dedicated to fire, feasting, and frolicking. And speaking of merriment, the festival’s origins harken back to a time when Shetlanders reveled in rolling flaming tar barrels through the town. This tradition, over time, lost its charm due to the rather hazardous side effect of house fires. In 1874, the fiery barrel-rolling was wisely banned.
But the Shetlanders were not ready to relinquish their Yule celebrations. Drawing inspiration from their deep Nordic roots and a history that saw Shetland as part of Norway for over 600 years, the Victorians gave birth to a new tradition.
Nowadays, the festival is much more than just a parade – it’s a 24 hour community event!
You’ll find Viking squads dragging a replica galley through the streets of Lerwick, traditional Up Helly Aa songs filling the air, harmonizing with the joyous cheers and roars of the crowds, accompanied by dramatic axe-waving that never fails to delight. 1000 torchlights light the streets during the evening parade, before the galley is set alight in a resplendent display that is breathtaking against the dark Shetland sky. The party then moves onto village halls for a night of skits, dancing and drinking until the early hours of the morning.
If you’d like to know more, read my indepth guide to Up Helly Aa.
2. Shetland Folk Festival – A Musical Journey
For music enthusiasts, the Shetland Folk Festival is a must-attend event. The dates for the most northerly folk festival in 2024 are the 2nd -5th May. This event is the ideal event to celebrate Shetland’s own unique fiddle tradition and rich musical heritage.
This annual festival sees not only local acts performing, but brings together musicians from around the world, creating a harmonious atmosphere that will resonate with your soul. Whether you prefer Celtic tunes or folk ballads, this festival offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene of Shetland.
Becoming a member of the festival allows you to get both cheaper tickets and the opportunity to attend the Festival Club within Isleburgh Community Centre. This gives you access to all the daytime events taking place there and the late night club. Be aware though that some of these events are still ticketed.
Previous acts have included: Foghorn Stringband, Shane Cook and the Woodchippers and the young traditional musician of the year, in 2022 this was Eryn Rae. If this festival interests you then you need to book early – tickets and accommodation sells out fast. Tickets for 2024’s festival go on sale early March 2024.
There is said to be a unique atmosphere at the Shetland Folk Festival, one that keeps musicians and fans coming back year after year. If it’s your 1st event be prepared for a party.
“This has been one of the best years of my life this weekend”
Brian Wicklund, Brother Mule, 2008
“Sleep ranks low on the Shetland priority list”
Sue Wilson, music journalist, 2002
3. Shetland Wool Week – A Knitter’s Paradise
Knitters and craft lovers find Shetland Wool Week to be a dream come true. Held in September, this festival celebrates Shetland’s rich textile heritage. In 2024 that dates are Sunday 29 September – Saturday 5 October.
You can attend workshops, visit local sheep farms, and even learn traditional knitting techniques from skilled artisans. It’s a fantastic way to connect with like-minded individuals and return home with a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
Shetland Wool Week is an international acclaimed tribute to the very heart of Shetland – our northernmost native sheep, the flourishing textile industry, and the resilient rural farming community that sustains these islands.
Shetland wool, is an exceptional natural fiber. It carries with it a time-honored legacy of unparalleled quality, durability, and craftsmanship. From the very fleece that’s sheared to the final textile masterpieces created, the rich tradition of Shetland knitwear is a testament to the dedication and skill of countless generations of diligent knitters and crofters, who’ve bestowed upon the world some of the most exquisite lace and Fair Isle garments.
What to Expect
Throughout the week, Shetland Wool Week offers an extensive array of exhibitions, classes, and events that delve into a diverse range of captivating subjects. From the intricate art of weaving and the mesmerizing craft of spinning, to the vibrant world of dyeing, the enchanting realms of Fair Isle and lace knitting, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of textile wonders.
The events are scattered across the Shetland archipelago, spanning from the southernmost tip of the Mainland to the northernmost island of Unst. Unst is renowned for its exquisite lacework. You will find numerous enchanting locations in between to explore and discover. I’m most exited about the spinning, dyeing and weaving classes.
One really cool thing the festival does each year, is to knit a hat courtesy of that years pattern, designed by a SWW member and everyone wears their hat during the festival. In 2023 the design was Buggiflooer Beanie. The pattern is available to download from the SWW website for £1 or you can buy a printed copy for £2 from the Shetland Museum or various Shetland knitwear outlets.
If you are interested in textiles in any way, consider signing up to Shetland Wool Week’s newsletter in order to stay up-to-date with announcements and to be notified when tickets go on sale.
4. Screenplay – Shetland Film Festival – Cinematic Delights
If you’re a film buff, the Screenplay – Shetland Film Festival is tailor-made for you. This festival showcases a diverse range of films, from classics to cutting-edge cinema. You can enjoy screenings in unique venues across the islands, creating a cinematic experience like no other. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow film enthusiasts and engage in stimulating discussions.
Unfortunately, 2023 saw the last film festival in it’s current guise, as the directors retired. It is too soon to say at present if, how, or in what form Screenplay will return.
5. Shetland Festivals: Shetland Noir – A Literary Escape
2023 saw Shetland’s Literary Festival take a dark turn, as for 4 days in June, in celebration of the success of the Shetland series, Shetland embraced all that is crime fiction.
Shetland Noir, the island’s very own crime fiction festival, is a perfect blend of mystery and literature. As a solo traveller, you’ll have the chance to participate in thrilling discussions with renowned authors, such as Richard Osmond, Val McDermid and Elly Griffiths, attend book launches, and explore the landscape that inspired Shetland’s famous detective series. It’s an experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
6. Wordplay – Shetland Literature & Writing Festival – Nurture Your Creativity
For women over 40 who have a penchant for writing and literature, Wordplay is the festival for you. This event provides a unique platform to connect with authors, poets, and fellow writers. It features both local and international authors. The event usually takes place in the Autumn, between September and November.
Events during the 4 day event include writing workshops, the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking conversations, and even share your own creative work. It’s an opportunity to nurture your passion for writing and make lasting connections.
Past events have attracted authors such as: Dr Cat Jarman who spoke on her research into Viking history, Sara Sheridan, author of The Fair Botanists, Kirsten Innes presenting her state of the nation novel Scabby Queen as well as Chitra Ramaswamy with her book Homelands, to mention just a few.
7. Shetland Food & Drink Festival – A Taste of Shetland
Shetland’s Food & Drink Festival is a delightful treat for culinary explorers. Sample delicious local delicacies, attend cooking demonstrations, and immerse yourself in the island’s food culture. As a solo traveller, you’ll find it easy to strike up conversations over a meal and bond with others who share your love for food.
A Taste of Shetland is an annual celebration of Shetland’s larder, showcasing locally-produced food and drink. Browse stalls, chat with local food producers, enjoy the samples and stock up on some of the fantastic food and drink Shetland has to offer. This event usually takes place in October.
The event is organised by Shetland Food and Drink, representing over 100 members connected to Shetland’s ever-growing food and drink industry.
8. Shetland Festivals: Young Fiddler of the Year – A Musical Showcase
Shetland is renowned for its musical heritage, and the Young Fiddler of the Year competition is a showcase of the island’s young talent. Attending this event will allow you to witness the next generation of Shetland musicians in action. You will not be able to resist tapping your feet to the lively tunes and connecting with the vibrant music community.
Next year’s event takes place on 26 and 27. April 2024. The event usually has around 80 young people taking part. There are 2 days of competition, then all the competitors get together to give a showcase performance.
9. Shetland Festivals – Accordion & Fiddle Festival – Toe-Tapping Fun
Last but not least, the Accordion & Fiddle Festival is a true celebration of Shetland’s musical traditions. With lively performances, dance events, and jam sessions, this festival promises a toe-tapping good time.
The fiddle and accordion, are the epicentre and the very soul of traditional Shetland music. They get the chance to take centre stage during this autumn celebration. Set against the backdrop of a bustling five-day extravaganza in early October, this festival draws talented musicians from across the globe, although it’s the spirited rhythms of Scottish Dance music that steal the spotlight.
Local musicians hold a special place in the festival’s heart, gracing its vibrant lineup. In the heartwarming tradition of music, tunes are exchanged, and enduring friendships are forged during the sessions. For the younger musicians, these sessions are a priceless opportunity to broaden their musical horizons.
Following the time-honored model of widespread community engagement, this festival leaves no corner of Shetland untouched. It all culminates in a grand finale, one of the largest traditional dances you’ll find anywhere in the UK. Around a dozen different dance bands take turns, captivating 1,500 enthusiasts in the local sports center, creating a euphoric “traditional rave” that’s bound to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Don’t miss the chance to share in the magic of this event! Next year’s event will take place on the 10th-13th of October 2024.
And so to conclude…
Shetland festivals offer a captivating blend of tradition, culture, and artistry that will make your solo journey as a woman over 40 truly remarkable. Whether you’re drawn to fiery Viking processions, traditional knitting, literary discussions, or vibrant musical performances, Shetland’s festivals will provide a wealth of experiences and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.
So, choose the festival that excites you the most, pack your bags and embark on a solo adventure to Shetland to immerse yourself in the magic of these diverse and lively festivals. Your Shetland journey awaits – full of adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories.
Check out my other posts on Shetland:
Find out about all the Shetland Highlights you don’t want to miss
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