Glasgow's hugely popular Celtic Connections festival opened in spectacular style this evening with a celebratory Viking torch-lit march through the streets of Glasgow.
The march was part of a celebration of Shetland 550, honouring the Islands' unique music and heritage, with February marking 550 years since Shetland was annexed from Norway to Scotland.
It took place prior to two specially-commissioned Shetland 550: Norn Voices concerts at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, which will bring together a host of Shetland’s foremost cultural ambassadors, plus some of their closest musical pals.
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Shetland vikings welcomed audiences to Glasgow Royal Concert Hall with flaming torches, cheers and songs celebrating Up Helly Aa.
This year’s hybrid Celtic Connections programme spans around 60 lively in-person concerts, a number of intimate filming sessions and an exciting digital offering, with more than 500 artists involved across the festival.
The festival will run until Sunday February 6.
For the programme line-up and to purchase tickets visit www.celticconnections.com
