Dot & Do · Exploring the UK and Europe with children. Free to use.

🎅 Santa, pantos & Christmas events for children in Orkney (2026)

Christmas in Orkney is small and friendly: Kirkwall’s lights and late-night shopping, Santa visits in community halls and shops, and on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day the Ba’ game in the streets of Kirkwall, which children love to watch, from a safe distance.

Christmas events in and around Orkney

Know one that’s missing? It takes a minute, and we check each one before it goes on the map. Add an event

Tips from people who’ve been

  • Book Santa early: the best grotto times often sell out by mid-November.
  • Check what’s included: a gift, a photo, a craft or a story, and whether grown-ups pay too.
  • Ask about quiet or relaxed sessions if loud music, crowds or queues are hard for your child.
  • Weekday visits and the first slot of the day are usually calmer than weekends.
  • Pantos often have relaxed and signed performances: look for them when you book.

Warm indoor places near Orkney for a cold day

Within 45 km: Museum & attraction: 17 · Swimming & leisure: 2 · Cinema: 1

Other places

Christmas with children 2026: Santa, pantos and lights · See everything on the map