The Orkney Folk Festival
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21 May - 24 May 2026
The Orkney Folk Festival returns to the charming harbour town of Stromness from 21 to 24 May 2026. Nestled on the scenic northern shores of Scotland, Stromness transforms into a vibrant hub of music and culture each spring. For four days, this coastal community overflows with the joyous sounds of folk music and dance. Old stone pubs, halls and streetsides host an exciting mix of traditional and contemporary performances. Friends and families gather to celebrate Orcadian heritage and global folk traditions in an atmosphere that is warm, welcoming and festive.
During the festival, dozens of events fill Stromness's calendar. You’ll find concerts showcasing both local talent and visiting artists from around the world, intimate song sessions in friendly pubs, and lively ceilidh dances where everyone shares in the fun of folk music. Whether you prefer to listen to soulful ballads, join an energetic dance in the village hall, or try your hand at a songwriting workshop or fiddle session, there is something here for every folk fan. Children and adults alike are welcome at the family-friendly events, and many concerts and informal sessions cater to beginners and experts alike.
Stromness itself adds to the festival's charm. Carved into a sheltered bay, the town's winding lanes and old stone buildings are steeped in maritime history and creativity. During the Folk Festival you might stroll by the harbour, browse local craft shops or the famous Pier Arts Centre, and hear bursts of music floating through the salty air. After sunset, festival-goers pour into traditional pubs and halls, often joining in spontaneous jam sessions together. It’s a wonderful way to meet locals and visitors alike – everyone in Stromness seems to share a love of music and good company.
The festival has strong roots in Orcadian culture, and local musicians take center stage alongside the visitors. Many of Orkney's own folk performers – from seasoned fiddlers to young choirs – help shape the event. Each year, special concerts highlight the island's musical heritage, whether it’s ancient ballads, Norse-influenced tunes or new songs inspired by Orkney's dramatic landscapes. At the same time, international folk artists bring fresh sounds from Celtic, Nordic and world traditions, making the Orkney Folk Festival a unique blend of global and island tunes.
Throughout the festival, the spirit of Orkney hospitality really shines through. Expect to make new friends at a ceilidh under candlelight, or to join in a foot-stomping dance after a casual evening in town. Families find plenty to enjoy, from gentle afternoon concerts to interactive workshops. If you have time between events, explore the stunning Orkney scenery or local heritage sites by day. Evenings are often spent comparing festival highlights with fellow attendees or enjoying the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re here for the music, the local culture or the beautiful surroundings, the Orkney Folk Festival is an experience you won’t forget.
In short, the Orkney Folk Festival invites everyone to join Scotland’s friendliest folk music celebration. Pack your dancing shoes and a sense of adventure – Stromness in May is a place where music and fun go hand-in-hand. We can’t wait to welcome you to Orkney for this unforgettable four-day festival of song, dance and community spirit!
Stromness is accessible by ferry and road. The most direct route for vehicles is NorthLink Ferries from Scrabster (just north of Thurso on the mainland) to Stromness, which takes about 90 minutes. NorthLink also offers an overnight ferry from Aberdeen to Kirkwall (6–7 hours), from which it’s another 30–40 minute drive or regular bus ride west to reach Stromness. Pentland Ferries provides a shorter crossing (around 70 minutes) from Gills Bay (near John O’Groats) to St Margaret’s Hope on Orkney’s mainland; Stromness is then roughly an hour’s drive or bus ride north. In summer, a passenger-only ferry runs between John O’Groats and Burwick (South Ronaldsay), which can be useful for walkers or cyclists without cars (from Burwick you can take a local bus).
The nearest airport is in Kirkwall (about 25 miles east of Stromness). Loganair operates regular flights to Kirkwall from Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness, all under an hour in duration. (During the summer there is often a route via Dundee or connections from London.) After flying into Kirkwall, travelers can rent a car or hop on the Stagecoach X1 bus straight to Stromness (roughly 30–40 minutes). Note that flights to Orkney can fill up, so booking early is recommended.
If you rely on public transport, Scottish Citylink coaches connect Inverness, Aberdeen and other cities with Thurso and John O’Groats, linking you to onward buses or ferries. The ScotRail network reaches Thurso (just 2 miles from Scrabster), where you can catch a short taxi or bus to the ferry port. On Orkney, the Stagecoach X1 bus runs frequently between Kirkwall and Stromness, stopping at local villages along the way. The Stromness Travel Centre at the ferry terminal is a hub for buses (including routes to other islands like Hoy and Flotta) and taxis once you arrive.
Accommodation in Stromness should be booked well in advance. The town offers a small selection of hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs and a few self-catered apartments – all of which fill up fast during festival season. For budget travelers, Orkney’s hostels and campsites are good options: in particular, the Point of Ness Campsite on the Stromness waterfront (open April to October) provides powered pitches and facilities just a short walk from town. If you can’t find space in Stromness, consider staying in nearby Kirkwall (about a 30–40 minute drive) where a wider range of lodging is available. Wherever you stay, plan your travels early to make the most of the festival.
Stromness, Orkney Islands, KW163AA
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