As spring rolls in with longer days and lighter evenings, Lerwick’s town centre is buzzing with fresh energy and exciting plans. Here’s a look at what’s been happening and what’s coming up!
Bright Bunting & Summer Blooms
Colourful bunting will return to brighten up the streets in early May (weather permitting), followed by beautiful floral displays in mid-June. Harrison Square will also have another vibrant arrangement to enjoy while you’re out and about.
Trails & Family Fun
Easter Trail
This year’s Easter Trail was a huge success, with over 130 local children and their families taking part in the hunt for hidden lambs around shop windows. Thank you to everyone who joined in.
Treasure Hunt
A popular event from last year will return – with even more clues and items to find! The town centre treasure hunt is a brilliant way to encourage exploration, learning, and fun for the whole family.
Doggy Day Out
A day just for the town’s four-legged visitors is in the works! Plans include free dog treats, pet portraits, and a guide to dog-friendly spots in Lerwick. It’s shaping up to be a tail-wagging good time for pets and their humans alike.
Marking History: VE Day 80
In May 2025, Lerwick will commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a week of special events.
- Norwegian Liberation Convoy: Arrives at Lerwick Harbour on 6 May. Ships will be open for public visits from 7–9 May, 11am–5pm daily(Wednesday, Thursday and Friday)
- Procession & Civic Reception: On 7 May at 6:30pm, led by the Lerwick Pipe Band.
- Memorial Services: On 8 May, services will take place at the County War Memorial in Lerwick (11am) and the Shetland Bus Memorial in Scalloway (3pm).
- Norwegian Naval Band Concert: A free evening concert at St Columba’s Kirk on 8 May at 7:30pm.
Visiting vessels are expected to start to depart Lerwick harbour from Saturday 11th May, with some returning to Norway, while others will make their way to other Shetland ports, including Scalloway and Baltasound. Those vessels that remain in harbour will be open to the public from 11.00am to 5.00pm.
For more information please visit the Shetland Islands Council Website
Craft Events
More hands-on fun is coming to Lerwick! Following the popularity of October’s family-friendly craft events, we’re planning more creative activities during the summer holidays and in October. Watch this space for activity schedules!
Halloween Trail
Our spooky Halloween Trail will return in October. It’s always a family favourite – and yes, sweets are definitely involved!
A Fresh Take on the Christmas Trail 29th November
Instead of our usual Elf Hunt, we’re planning to shake things up with a Santa Hunt or Reindeer Hunt. Keep your eyes peeled for decorated characters hidden in windows throughout the town – each one will have its own festive flair. Make sure you choose your favourite character.
The Christmas Parade 29th November
A highlight of Lerwick’s festive calendar, the Christmas Parade will return once again to officially welcome Santa to town. It’s always a special moment for the whole community to come together and kick off the season.
Plans for the Grotto
We're also working on bringing back a Santa’s Grotto experience this year, giving children the chance to meet the man himself. Details will be shared closer to the time.
Looking at Greener Choices
We’re looking into launching a reusable cup scheme in Lerwick town centre, encouraging people to ditch single-use cups and opt for a more sustainable option when grabbing drinks on the go. The scheme is in early stages, but we’re excited about the potential to cut down on waste while supporting a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
New Visitor Leaflets Coming Soon
With the Visitor Information Centre now closed, we’ve created a brand-new Lerwick Town Centre Information Leaflet. It includes a map, listings of local businesses, points of interest, public toilet locations, and a handy QR code linking to bus and ferry timetables. Copies will be available by the end of April – look out for them across town.
We’ll be sharing updates, photos, and reminders for all upcoming events on our website and social media channels.
If you have any questions or want to get in touch, drop us a line at [email protected]