Our Festive Day Out in Kirkwall was a fantastic success, and we want to thank everyone who came along and helped make the day so special. The town was filled with energy from start to finish, and it was wonderful to see so many people out enjoying the beginning of the festive season.
Shoppers explored our independent stores, cafés, and eateries throughout the day, creating a warm and lively atmosphere across Kirkwall. Local businesses reported an excellent turnout, with steady footfall, plenty of Christmas shopping, and lots of friendly faces supporting the high street.
The BID activities in the Old We Frame It building were especially popular. From the Christmas Shopping Cards, to the children’s temporary tattoos and the decorate-your-own Christmas jumper competition, the space was busy throughout the afternoon. Families also enjoyed free gift wrapping, friendly conversations, and the chance to pick up our load at home Kirkwall Gift Cards.
Across the town centre, the festive spirit was everywhere. The beautiful Christmas lights, live music, seasonal treats, special offers, and more than 60 Peedie Trees created a welcoming and cheerful setting for residents and visitors alike.
The day finished on a high note with the OIC Christmas Tree Lighting, accompanied by the Kirkwall City Pipe Band. This much-loved tradition once again brought the community together and marked a perfect end to a memorable event.
Thank you to everyone who shopped local, took part in the activities, supported our businesses, and helped create such a successful day for Kirkwall. Your support keeps our town centre strong, vibrant, and full of life.
We look forward to welcoming you back for more festive celebrations next year.
Shopping Card Success!
With over 25 businesses signing up to take part in our Love Kirkwall This Christmas shopping card, and a prize pot of more than £1,000, we were delighted to see so many shoppers take to the streets to begin their Christmas shopping. The response was fantastic, with cards being collected and stamped throughout the day as people supported local businesses.
This was our first trial of the shopping card scheme, and thanks to the strong uptake and positive feedback, we now plan to incorporate it into future events. It proved to be a great way to encourage local spending, create excitement, and bring even more people into Kirkwall town centre during the festive season.
The winners are listed below:
£500 Kirkwall Gift Card - Nina
£250 Kirkwall Gift Card - Sarah
£100 Kirkwall Gift Card - Melanie
£50 Kirkwall Gift Cards - Ian
£50 Kirkwall Gift Cards - M.G
£50 Kirkwall Gift Cards - Shongha
£25 Kirkwall Gift Cards - Evelyn
£25 Kirkwall Gift Cards - Hannah
£25 Kirkwall Gift Cards - Fiona
£25 Kirkwall Gift Cards - Ellen
Beyla Gin & Beyla Candle from The Orkney Distillery - Phyllis
Alison Moore Earrings - Barbara
Toasted Crumpet Candle Set from W. Hourston Jewellers - Debbie
Across the town centre, the festive spirit was everywhere. The beautiful Christmas lights, live music, seasonal treats, special offers, and more than 60 Peedie Trees created a welcoming and cheerful setting for residents and visitors alike.
The day finished on a high note with the OIC Christmas Tree Lighting, accompanied by the Kirkwall City Pipe Band. This much-loved tradition once again brought the community together and marked a perfect end to a memorable event.
Thank you to everyone who shopped local, took part in the activities, supported our businesses, and helped create such a successful day for Kirkwall. Your support keeps our town centre strong, vibrant, and full of life.
We look forward to welcoming you back for more festive celebrations next year.


