Whit’s on this weekend?
At a loss for what to do this weekend? Have no fear! The Orcadian is here with a few peedie suggestions on what to get up to over the next few days…
Per Mare Celebrations, Stromness
This week Stromness has been celebrating its 200th year as a Burgh of Barony with a host of events, including exhibitions, talks, and other fun activities. Tomorrow, Saturday, will see the a new plaque unveiled at the Stromness Pierhead fountain to mark the occasion.
This event will begin with a dance performance by local school children at 12pm, followed by music from the Stromness RBL pipe band and speeches from Councillor Harvey Johnston and former Stromness Town Councillor Howie Firth.
Following the plaque unveiling, there will also be live music, followed by a re-telling of the Alexander Graham story by Stromness Drama Club.
Orkney: Landscape & History, St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall
This past week has seen a series CoMA’s International Summer School visit Orkney, hosting a  series of workshops and live music events.
This will culminate with a live performance at St Magnus Cathedral, from 7.30pm tomorrow evening, Saturday, exploring Orkney’s landscape and history.
Eday Gala Weekend
Throughout this week, the community of Eday have been releasing their competitive side as they celebrate their annual Gala Week, with a host of fun activities for all ages set to continue into the weekend.
Folk from the North End of the island will be battling it out against the South End in a series of challenges with their own version of It’s A Knock Out, tomorrow, Saturday. This will be followed by a more relaxed — but no less competitive — Games Night in the Community Hall.
Sunday will see Eday’s traditional car treasure hunt, which is expected to take folk all over the island in search of vital clues. The Gala Week will then conclude with social night with food, drink, and even a bouncy castle!
Andy From Orkney Book Signing, The Orcadian Bookshop, Kirkwall
Nan Meriweather will be signing copies of her Andy From Orkney books at The Orcadian Bookshop, tomorrow afternoon, Saturday, from 2-3pm.
Inspired by a felt bear the author made for her great-nephew, Nan’s books tell the story of Andy the bear, who goes to live in Hoy with his best friend Emma.
This event will culminate in a prize draw, with the chance to win copies of Nan’s books and a framed print.
HEEM: Island and People, Westray Parish Kirk
Westray Parish Kirk opened their annual exhibition, last weekend.
Open until Friday, August 25, this year’s exhibition — HEEM — focuses on aspects of Westray and some of its native islanders, through portrait photography, video, and sound.
Developed by architect and designer, Andy Bruce, HEEM uses this multimedia format to exhibit life on small island at a particular moment in time.