Yes, it is today that we are celebrating once again Norwegian Constitution Day. It is an important holiday for all Norwegians and not only. As you know, the inhabitants of Norway are patriots, attached to their country - they appreciate its basic values: culture, customs and closeness to nature. Let us recall that on May 17, we celebrate the anniversary of the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in Eidsvoll, on May 17, 1814. It is a public holiday - a day off from work.
Let's go back to history ...
The constitution of Norway was signed in Eidsvoll on May 17, 1814. It confirmed Norway's independence as a constitutional monarchy. It was an attempt to preserve state sovereignty in the face of the threat of Norway joining Sweden after the devastating defeat of the Kingdom of Denmark and Norway in the Napoleonic Wars.
Under the Treaty of Moss of August 1814, Norway entered a personal union with Sweden and the then king, Karl Johan, was reluctant to the separatist celebrations. In 1828, the king forbade the celebration of the holiday because he believed that it was against the union and threatened with rebellion. The very next year, on May 17, there was a skirmish between Union forces and the demonstrators in Christiania (today's Oslo). The military intervention caused widespread indignation among the Norwegians and forced the king to lift the ban. Nevertheless, it was not until 1833 that the first official ceremonies took place. They were held next to the monument of former Prime Minister Christian Krohg, which has become a symbol of the fight against the excessive powers of the monarchy. In 1864, the first children's parade was held, initially consisting of only 5 boys. From 1899, girls were also allowed to take part in the parade.
An official national holiday since the end of World War II
World War II ended in Norway – 9 days before Constitution Day on May 8 1945 - German troops laid down their weapons. Since then, it has been an official public holiday.
May 17 - celebrations today ...
Every year on May 17 is a day of universal joy in Norway. Throughout the country: ceremonial parades take place in towns and villages. What is beautiful and noteworthy is the fact that in this unique one, representatives of different - sometimes seemingly distant views and environments meet. The parades are attended by representatives of the authorities, the world of culture, non-governmental organizations, uniformed workers, all kinds of religious associations, ordinary and extraordinary citizens. From year to year, more and more people wear folk costumes on that day to emphasize their cultural affiliation. Festive breakfasts are held in schools, educational institutions and in many places in the country - regional dishes appear on the table.
Greetings from Radio Wataha
On the occasion of the celebration of May 17, the entire team of Radio Wataha and the Wataha Info portal would like to express their best wishes. We extend our best wishes to the Polish community in Norway, native Norwegians, and all the inhabitants of Norway for whom Norway is important.
We wish you and ourselves: that in the "country of fjords" we live well and happily. Be happy in your everyday life, family life and work - pursue your goals, plans and dreams. Surrounded by such beautiful nature that we can undoubtedly enjoy here - living in Norway.
Information: Wikipedia
Photos: Pixbay No
17th anniversary celebrations May in Norway – see the report
https://www.facebook.com/radionorwegia/videos/336399357021042/
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