Kirkwall has experienced a vibrant boost in both atmosphere and revenue as the Orkney International Island Games bring thousands of athletes, officials, and supporters to the town. With an estimated 2,000 athletes from 23 island nations arriving, the population of Orkney has swelled by nearly 10%, filling high streets, shops, and venues with an animated, festive spirit.
Local businesses, particularly along Kirkwall’s High Street, have enjoyed spells of steady footfall as visitors flock to central locations between sporting fixtures. Megan Bain of Hume Sweet Hume, a designer knitwear store, reported, “We’ve seen lots of people from all over the place.
There’s been a lovely hustle and bustle… People have been buying but it’s not been really busy all the time. Even though the weather has been really good, we have sold knitwear. I wasn’t sure if we would, when it’s been so sunny”.
Window displays and themed decorations celebrating the games have further invigorated the town, drawing both locals and visitors to explore what local retailers have on offer. The Kirkwall Business Improvement District (BID) has played an active role, with shops dressing their windows and the area transformed with bunting and festive displays.
“There’s a fantastic atmosphere in the streets. Even before the Games have commenced, the town is bustling; everyone is embracing the spirit of the event,” shared Morgan Maxton-Walls, manager of the Kirkwall BID.
While the Island Games have invigorated many aspects of local trade, the influx of athletes and visitors also meant fewer cruise liners docking during the week, a usual source of high-spending tourists. This has required businesses to adapt, with some reporting quieter periods when events are ongoing, and busier spells between or after competitions.
Nevertheless, several business owners have noted the unique buzz and the value of the games, describing it as “better than a big cruise liner coming in every day.”
Community and Government Support
The Orkney community has been praised for its warm welcome and the extensive volunteering efforts helping the event run smoothly. Over 900 volunteers from across Orkney have stepped up, demonstrating the community solidarity that underpins the games’ success.
Business Minister Richard Lochhead noted, “It’s clear that the Orkney Island Games will have a positive impact on our island communities and I have been deeply impressed by the dedication of the local community”.
Hosted events, window competitions, and themed menus have contributed to a truly inclusive celebration, with shops, cafés, and the hospitality sector broadly benefitting from the sustained arrival of visitors, despite some logistical challenges.
As the games continue, Kirkwall’s businesses remain excited about the potential for lasting economic impact, strengthened by national attention, repeat visits, and memories forged by athletes and supporters alike. The event has offered the town a chance to showcase its rich culture and vibrant business scene on an international stage, leaving a legacy that, for many, could extend well beyond the closing ceremony.
