A wave of yuletide cheer is set to sweep across Orkney as communities prepare to illuminate the darkness with their annual Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, marking the beginning of the festive season throughout the archipelago.
The enchanting spectacle begins in Holm on 23 November, where residents will gather at the Community Centre at 6.30pm to witness the first twinkling lights of the season transform their corner of the islands.
Stromness and Stenness will embrace the festive spirit on 27 November, with ceremonies at the historic Stromness Town House at 5.45pm, followed by Stenness Hall at 6.30pm.
The charming villages of St Margaret’s Hope and Finstown will simultaneously light up their Christmas trees on 29 November, with both celebrations commencing at 6.30pm at Cromarty Square and the foreshore car park respectively.
Kirkwall’s grand celebration on 30 November will feature the lighting of a magnificent Norwegian tree, a cherished gift from Vestland County, which will stand proudly on the Kirk Green outside St Magnus Cathedral.
The Kirkwall ceremony will be elevated by the presence of His Excellency Tore Hattrem, Norwegian Ambassador to the UK, alongside Convener Graham Bevan, while distinguished Norwegian musicians Alexander Aga Røynstrand and Berit Opheim will provide authentic Scandinavian entertainment.
The evening’s festivities will commence with the stirring sounds of Kirkwall City Pipe Band at 4.45pm, followed by the ethereal St Lucy procession at 5pm, culminating in the grand illumination at 6.10pm following a special cathedral service.
Communities across the isles will join the celebrations, with Stronsay, Deerness, Westray, Rousay, and Burray all hosting their own unique ceremonies on 30 November, each bringing their distinct character to the festivities.
The following weekend will see Orphir and Evie schools welcome December with their tree lighting ceremonies on the 1st, while Dounby Market Green and Shapinsay Community School will continue the celebrations on 6 December.
The grand finale of Orkney’s Christmas tree lighting season will take place on 7 December, as Flotta and Sanday round off the celebrations with their ceremonies at 7pm, completing a fortnight of festive illuminations across these historic northern isles.
