ONFA was established in 1978 to promote links between Orkney, in the far North of Scotland, and Norway.

Orkney became part of Scotland in 1468. For about 500 years before it had been ruled by Norse Earls, whose influence stretched as far as Ireland and who travelled as far as the Holy Land. Their influence can be seen in Norse derived placenames, surnames and dialect. Their most visible monument is the 12th Century St. Magnus Cathedral.

On 17 May we celebrate Norwegian Constitution Day and at Christmas we light a Norwegian tree outside the Cathedral as part of a whole "Tree-Lighting" Ceremony. Over the winter we have a programme of events reflecting all things Norwegian. All year round we encourage visits to and welcome visitors from Norway. This site aims to provide useful information to assist that process.

See About ONFA for details of how to join. ONFA is supported by Orkney Islands Council which has a twinning agreement with Hordaland: the 'county' in which Bergen is located.