Experts from around the world are gathering in Orkney this weekend for the third, and final, Scotland’s Island Research Framework for Archaeology (SIRFA) symposium.

The event runs from Friday, March 24, until Monday, March 27, and brings together a wide range of archaeologists and heritage-sector stakeholders to agree on gaps in knowledge and understanding of Orkney’s past.

The Covid Recovery Fund for Culture, provided by Orkney Islands Council, is now open to applications from local arts and heritage organisations.

Olympian Sir Chris Hoy has confirmed he will visit Orkney in April to officially open the newly refurbished Scapa Flow Museum and celebrate with the community.

This Saturday, 18 February, sees the opening of the first temporary exhibition of the year at the Orkney Museum, Tankerness House, Kirkwall. ‘Art in Orkney 1875-2020: A Private Collection’. This stunning display of art spans the centuries and has something to suit all tastes, from traditional Victorian watercolours to abstracts and sculpture.

Hugely significant and much loved artefacts from the Tomb of the Eagles in South Ronaldsay can now be seen at the Orkney Museum, which has just reopened following a month-long closure to carry out important behind-the-scenes work at the Museum and stores.