For days before the galley actually burns, you could swear there's sometimes a whiff of Up Helly Aa in the air.
As it got light this morning the smell was definitely there.
The Peerie Shop's knitted helmets and Harry's mini Vikings in raging battle hint at what's to come.
People peer over and peep out, crowds start to form in unlikely places and then the peerie bodies start to file in.
Then there's a rumble and a roar and a sea of glistening helmets makes it's way into town (complete with
the ultimate Viking accessory). First David Nicolson's Jarl Squad, followed by the Junior Jarl Squad. The galley,
Per Ardua, watches over the festivities.
Watch the beautiful
Per Ardua being built
here, then watch her burn
here (we can't wait to see/smell her mast come crashing down in the flames). See a piece on the history of Up Helly Aa
here.
We'll be back on Thursday because we'll still be dancing tomorrow morning. Until then, three cheers for the smelliest, nosiest, craziest Tuesday in the year.
x
