Discover Orkney’s Vibrant Annual Festivals & Events
Feel the pulse of Orkney, right from Kirkwall Airport! From the global acclaim of the St Magnus International Festival in June and the musical warmth of the Orkney Folk Festival in May, to the fascinating Orkney International Science Festival in September, plus unique traditions like the Kirkwall Ba’, Yule Log Pull, and the Festival of the Horse, Orkney offers year-round community celebrations, heritage highlights, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
May: Orkney Folk Festival
Where: Across Stromness and other venues throughout Orkney.
Since 1983, this four day celebration blooms with international and local folk musicians. With over 35 ticketed events, free pub sessions, ceilidhs, youth concerts, and more, it's a spirited showcase of music and Orcadian culture orkney.com.
June: St Magnus International Festival
Where: Across Kirkwall and beyond.
A world class midsummer arts festival featuring chamber orchestras, opera, theatre, dance, literature, cabaret, and community projects. It is set against Orkney’s dramatic landscapes. Expect tickets to go on sale each April.
August: Festival of the Horse & Boys’ Ploughing Match
Where: St Margaret’s Hope, South Ronaldsay.
A charming, century old rural tradition where horses parade, children don harness costumes, and local ploughing competitions showcase island heritage.
September: Orkney International Science Festival
Where: Mainly in Kirkwall.
Founded in 1991 and one of the UK’s longest running science festivals, this event combines cutting edge talks in astronomy, archaeology, renewables, genetics, environmental science, and more. It runs across diverse venues, from the Pickaquoy Centre to St Magnus Cathedral. It usually involves family-friendly workshops, music, and food experiences.
Additional Seasonal Highlights
Kirkwall Ba’ Game: Every 25 December & 1 January, the town erupts in a historic mass street ball game. It’s Uppies vs Doonies! An ancient community tradition worth witnessing.
Stromness Yule Log Pull: Celebrate Hogmanay with this lively community tug-of-war around a giant log.
County Shows & Vintage Events in August: Kirkwall hosts the Orkney County Show, complemented by agricultural events on Sanday, Dounby, Shapinsay, and the Vintage Motor Show in Kirkwall. Filled with livestock, crafts, machinery demonstrations, and family fun.
Nature’s Showcase: Wildlife lovers flock to see vibrant puffin colonies (April–August), the seal pupping season (November), photography and snorkelling tours, plus guided birdwatching and nature walks around the islands.
Taste of Orkney Food Festival in September: A delicious celebration of Orkney’s finest. Including pop up tastings, chef demos, local producers, and regional craft beverages.
Keep up to date with the latest events and unique experiences across Orkney at Orkney Islands - Holidays, Maps & Travel | VisitScotland.