In the last article we mentioned that Norway is a country that pays a lot of attention to architecture. Traditions and customs also play a very important role here. We will describe a few of them.
The day of signing the Constitution
In 1814, on May 17, Norway signed the Constitution and became an independent country. Since then, this special day has become a reason for great joy for its citizens, especially the youngest ones. Every year, Norwegians start this day with a Christmas breakfast, which, exceptionally, is not eaten only with family, but often with neighbors or friends. It has long been known that shared happiness tastes best. Loud parades are organized throughout the country, in which the youngest citizens participate, dressed in traditional costumes. In Oslo, one of such parades is even welcomed by... the royal family. On this day, it is difficult to look for a citizen without the country's flag in his hand and raising it loudly in joy. An interesting fact is that this day does not have any military accents, and people taking part in the parades spend time together enjoying this day, eating large amounts of ice cream and hot dogs, and often play board games in the afternoons.
Nobel Peace Prize
Every year, on December 10, the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo. Although we get to know the winners a little earlier, this unique presentation takes place at a later time. The official part is followed by events, concerts, performances and exhibitions. The two traditions of the entire undertaking are the way the winners go to the balcony of the Grand Hotel and greet the audience, as well as the concert held the day later at the Oslo Spektrum arena, which brings together artists not only from Norway.
Read also: Nobel Peace Prize 2018 - it is known who received it
The tradition of leached fish
The time of Christmas is different for many countries traditions and customs. We know 12 dishes in Poland, and a dish of leached fish appears on the Norwegian table. It is nothing more than dried cod, which is soaked in water for a few days, and then put into a solution of potassium or sodium hydroxide for 2 days and then returned to the water. It must be remembered that the water must be changed very often. Only when the fish is ready can you proceed to its proper preparation. In Norway, this dish is called lutefisk. The Norwegians cannot do without it like the Poles do without a carp.
Christmas balls or baskets?
Decorating a Christmas tree is one of the nicer things about Christmas. In Norway, apart from the usual baubles, you can often find torn baskets, which are the basis for decorating the tree. It is the responsibility of adults to fill them with treats.
Read also: Great architecture of Norway
Saami Day
Every year, on February 6, the National Saami Day is held on the occasion of the first parliamentary assembly in 1917. It is a special day for the Sami people, and it has been an official holiday of Norway for 14 years. What can you see on February 6? Certainly many Sami flags, reindeer races and fairs with many beautiful Sami handicrafts. Additionally, you can hear the Lapland anthem "Sámi soga lávlla" from many places.
