A royal welcome awaits in Orkney this summer as Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal prepares to open the 20th International Island Games.
Princess Anne will attend the Opening Ceremony at Kirkwall’s Bignold Park on Saturday 12 July, where she will officially launch the Games in a celebration of sport, spirit and island pride.
Orkney is set to host around 2,000 athletes from 24 island nations and territories across the world.
The week-long event, running from 12 to 18 July, promises fierce competition in 12 sports including athletics, swimming, cycling and football.
But this is about more than medals.
It’s a community celebration, a cultural exchange and a chance to shine a light on the people and places that make island life so extraordinary.
Director of Orkney 2025, Kirsty Talbot, said the honour of hosting the Games and welcoming The Princess Royal is something the entire island is proud of.
“With just weeks to go, the excitement across Orkney is electric,” she said.
“Local businesses, tourism operators and volunteers are all pulling together to create something unforgettable.
“We can’t wait to give the world a proper Orcadian welcome.”
The Princess Royal’s presence adds royal sparkle to an event that’s already brimming with anticipation.
For the athletes, their families and the thousands of visitors heading to Orkney, her appearance will no doubt be a proud and memorable moment.
The Games are being brought to life thanks to major support from the Scottish Government, sportscotland and Orkney Islands Council, along with over 900 local volunteers who have offered their time and energy to help deliver a world-class experience.
From stewarding and transport to supporting athletes and welcoming spectators, their generosity has been at the heart of the preparations.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead paid tribute to the people behind the scenes, praising the community’s commitment and passion.
“The impact of the Games on Orkney and the wider island community will be significant,” he said.
“This is a celebration not just of sport, but of the cultures and connections that shape our islands.”
The Opening Ceremony will be co-hosted by beloved broadcaster Lorraine Kelly and local presenter Stewart Bain, with an Athletes’ Parade expected to be a highlight.
Events across the islands will include a triathlon in Stromness, road cycling through the West Mainland and a half marathon in Kirkwall.
All events, including the Opening Ceremony, are free to attend.
For the people of Orkney and for visitors from across the globe, this will be a moment to treasure.
A time when the islands take centre stage and show the world what true island hospitality looks like.
