April 2012
What's happening in Shetland in December 2011
As the nights get longer in Shetland during December, thoughts turn to Christmas and New Year, but also beyond - to the end of January, and in particular, the fire festivals - Up Helly Aa. In December, plans are made, the galley is crafted, Viking armour meets polishing cloths, and beards are grown. As preparations increase in pace and hotel rooms are booked up, make sure that you organise and book your travel and accommodation to the Shetland Islands in January.
That said, December is a lovely time to visit Shetland, as darkness envelopes the islands and the wind whistles down the street, blowing you into warm shops, welcoming pubs and sweet-smelling restaurants for a warm meal! 
Christmas shopping is super in Shetland - without the bustle of city shops, you can choose unique and tasteful items you're unlikely to find anywhere else. Shetland music, books, vodka, fudge, crafts and jumpers make lovely presents for all ages. During December, shops in Lerwick have late night openings on Thursdays, and are also open on the Sundays leading up to the big day! Please check the local press for more information.
You'll also find much to do in the evening in Shetland during December - concerts, pantomimes, dinners, dances and discos. More details can be sought in the Shetland newspaper. 
Serveral traditions remain in Shetland during the festive season. In Whalsay, local tradition is that people assemble to light a bonfire and set off fireworks between Christmas Eve and New Year - this happens in several villages across the island. In Lerwick at Hogmannay, hundreds of revellers from all over the isles will gather at The Market Cross - "Da Cross" to see in the bells. Music is played from overhead speakers and a street dance ensues.
Places worth visiting in December include the village of Brae and Mavis Grind. Brae is located at the north end of Busta Voe, near the narrow slither of land that joins the mainland to Northmavine. The main road (A970) to Northmavine forms the main street of the village. With the Sullom Voe Oil Terminal close by, Brae grew rapidly in the 1970s. It now has many businesses (including one of The Independent's 50 Best Fish and Chip Shops in the UK) and a leisure centre.
Only one and a half miles from Brae is Mavis Grind, which is the name for the 33m wide piece of land which joins Northmavine to the rest of the Shetland Mainland. It is said to be the only place in the UK where you can toss a stone across land from the North Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. In older times, boats were dragged over this land - it represented a great short cut! The word grind means 'crossing place' in Shetland’s old language, Norn. In the Second World War dragons teeth were contructed to prevent a German landing - these are still visible today.
Booking directly with NorthLink Ferries on www.northlinkferries.co.uk is cheaper than booking 
with another website and we never charge for any amendments made to your booking!
