Witness One of the World's Last Great Street Games.
Where Viking tradition, Hogmanay, and small-island rivalry collide in the streets of medieval Kirkwall.
December 30, 2026 – January 3, 2027 • 5 Days / 4 Nights • 8–12 Travelers • Starting at $2,995 per person • Single Supplement Available.
Spend New Year's in Orkney experiencing the legendary Kirkwall Ba'—a centuries-old street game played only twice a year. Shops board up, locals split into Uppies and Doonies, and the whole town becomes the pitch. You’re not on a tour bus; you’re in the middle of a living ritual—sharing pints, stories, and long-held traditions with the people who call this place home.
Real Sport. Real Culture. Real Connections.
Ritual and Rivalry is currently developing this proposed small-group journey. Dates, pricing, access, local partners, accommodations, transportation and inclusions are subject to final confirmation.
Only 12 Seats Available
Not designed for everyone. Designed for the curious. We intentionally limit every Ritual & Rivalry departure to just 8–12 travelers. Smaller groups create better conversations, easier access to local experiences, and a more authentic connection to the communities we visit.
Why Orkney?
Orkney isn't just a location; it's a preserved frontier of Viking history and Neolithic heritage. This small island culture thrives on strong local traditions and a brand of warm hospitality that only exists in places where the elements are harsh and the community is everything.
Why the Ba' Matters
This is not a staged performance for tourists. It is a living community ritual played every Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Uppies and Doonies carry a handcrafted leather ball through the streets to opposite ends of Kirkwall—a contest of sheer will where the town itself serves as the arena.
Is This Trip For You?
- Love unusual sporting traditionsEnjoy history beyond museumsAppreciate local food and pubsPrefer small groups over tour busesWant stories instead of souvenirsDon’t mind walking several miles a day
What Makes Ritual & Rivalry Different?
- Small Groups (8–12)Local ExpertsHistoric PubsAuthentic FoodLiving TraditionsFree Time to Explore No Tourist TrapsCurated Experiences
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive in Orkney
Check-in to your boutique accommodation before gathering for a historic pub visit and a curated welcome dinner with your fellow travelers.
Day 2 – Sport 101 & Kirkwall Traditions
Deepen your understanding with a Sport 101 cultural session and Kirkwall walking tour, followed by an afternoon whisky tasting and evening pub culture.
Day 3 – The Kirkwall Ba' Experience
Witness the legendary Kirkwall Ba' from a premium viewing location with expert commentary, ending the day celebrating with locals in the heart of town.
Day 4 – Brewery & Neolithic Heritage
Visit a local brewery and explore the island's ancient Neolithic history before gathering for a meaningful farewell dinner.
Day 5 – Breakfast & Depart
Enjoy a final island breakfast and depart with stories of Orkney tradition and the spirit of the Ba'.
Included
Your journey includes four nights of curated boutique accommodation and daily breakfast to start each morning. We’ve planned a meaningful welcome dinner, a Sport 101 cultural session, and an expert-led Kirkwall walking tour. You’ll enjoy a premium Ba' Game viewing experience, whisky tasting, and a local brewery visit. Every traveler receives an exclusive Ritual & Rivalry welcome gift, a comprehensive digital travel guide, and the focused attention of a small-group experience.
Not Included
- FlightsTravel insuranceMeals not listedAdditional alcoholPersonal expensesAirline baggage feesTransportation outside itineraryGratuities
Is This Trip For You?
- Love unusual sporting traditionsEnjoy history beyond museumsAppreciate local food and pubsPrefer small groups over tour busesWant stories instead of souvenirsDon’t mind walking several miles a day
What Makes Ritual & Rivalry Different?
- Small Groups (8–12)Local ExpertsHistoric PubsAuthentic FoodLiving TraditionsFree Time to Explore No Tourist TrapsCurated Experiences
Only 12 Seats Available
Not designed for everyone. Designed for the curious. We intentionally limit every Ritual & Rivalry departure to just 8–12 travelers. Smaller groups create better conversations, easier access to local experiences, and a more authentic connection to the communities we visit. For more information, call 602-730-6181.
December 30, 2026 – January 3, 2027 • Starting at $2,995
8–12 Travelers • Reserve with $500 Deposit
Trip Details & FAQ
Do I need to be athletic?
What if I don't drink
No. You are viewing the game from the safety of the sidelines. However, you should be comfortable standing and walking in winter conditions for several hours.
The trip does have a distillery tour and pub visits as part of the itinerary, but the consumption of alcohol is up to your discretion.
Will I participate in the Ba’?
How much walking?
Spectators do not play in the actual street contest. We host a separate, safe 'Sport 101' workshop where you can learn the mechanics and history hands-on.
Expect to walk several miles a day over cobblestones and uneven terrain. Kirkwall is best explored on foot, and following the game requires mobility.
What airport should I use?
Can I come alone?
Fly into Kirkwall Airport (KOY). Most travelers connect through Edinburgh or Glasgow. We recommend arriving at least a day early.
Yes. Many of our travelers join solo. A single supplement is available for those who prefer their own private room throughout the trip.
What weather should I expect?
When should I book flights?
Orkney in winter is unpredictable. Expect high winds, damp conditions, and temperatures between 35-45°F. Quality waterproof layers are essential.
We recommend booking flights once the departure is confirmed. We will notify waitlisted travelers immediately upon confirmation of logistics.
Ritual and Rivalry is currently developing this proposed small-group journey. Dates, pricing, access, local partners, accommodations, transportation and inclusions are subject to final confirmation. For assistance, contact us at 602-730-6181.