May 17 is a great and important national holiday in Norway, celebrated in different ways throughout the country. Here are some common traditions and activities related to May 17 celebrations in Norway.
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How do Norwegians celebrate May 17?
"Barnetog". The centerpiece of the celebration is the school children's train. Children dress up in nice costumes, often national ones, and walk through the streets, often with an orchestra and flags.
National flags and bunads. Norwegians decorate their streets, houses and themselves with the Norwegian flag. Many also wear bunads, a traditional Norwegian costume that varies from region to region.
Speeches and greetings. Speeches are given in public places such as schools, squares and parks. Politicians, students, and others give speeches and salutes that reflect values such as freedom, democracy, and national pride.
Also read: May 17 - National Day of Norway
Music and singing. School bands and choirs play national songs. Of course, the Norwegian anthem "Ja, vi elsker dette landet" cannot be missing.
Christmas parties. Many cities and communities host parades, concerts, sporting events and children's games. It is also common to go to markets or visit parks to enjoy the day.
Food and drinks. People gather for breakfast, lunch or dinner with family and friends. Barbecues and picnics are popular choices. Eating traditional Norwegian food is also common.
Fireworks. In many places, May 17 celebrations end with a fireworks show in the evening. It's a spectacular end to a day full of festivities.
It is worth noting that the celebration may vary slightly depending on the venue, as well as individual preferences and traditions that come into play. Common to the May 17 celebrations, however, is the joy of being Norwegian, community and celebration of the nation's independence and freedom.
It's a family day
May 17 is a family day in which many children and young people also participate. Entire families are often involved in the celebrations. They often meet for breakfast, lunch or dinner, where they celebrate the National Day together. Many people also use this day to go to fairs, parks or participate in various events organized for the whole family.
What is appropriate and what is not welcome on this day
On May 17, Norway's national holiday, there are a few things that are usually considered inappropriate or impolite. Here are some examples of what not to do on May 17:
Do not criticize or make condescending comments about a national holiday, Norwegian traditions or celebrations in general. May 17th is an important day for many Norwegians and it is best to show respect and a positive attitude on this day.
Avoid wearing the colors or flags of other countries. May 17 is the day we celebrate Norway, and dressing in symbols of other countries on this special day can be seen as disrespectful or inappropriate.
Avoid being rude or disrespectful to other people. May 17 is the day of unity and community. Treat others with kindness and respect. Do not disrupt or interrupt public events or parades without good reason. Disturbing others' celebrations is usually frowned upon.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Although alcohol is drunk on May 17, it is important to drink responsibly. Remember that this is a family day in which many children and young people also participate. Families gather for breakfast, lunch or dinner and celebrate National Day together. Many people also use this day to go to fairs, parks or participate in various events organized for the whole family. Many schools also organize various activities and games for children on this day.
Overall, it's about showing respect, community, and awareness to the other people around you on this National Day.
Most workplaces are closed
May 17 is a national holiday in... Norway and most workplaces is closed to allow people to participate in the celebrations. However, there are professions and work situations in which it may be necessary to work even on a public holiday. It should be noted that although some professions require work on May 17, arrangements are usually made to give employees the opportunity to participate in the celebration at other times day or provide compensation for work on a public holiday. Working rules on public holidays may vary depending on your employment contract, collective agreements and local regulations.
Mowing the grass or doing other similar tasks on May 17 is not ideal as it is a national holiday and a day of celebration. Often people want to attend festivities, spend time with family and friends, attend public events or just enjoy a day off.
It is generally good practice to show respect for the National Day and allow people to enjoy the celebrations without being disturbed by noise or activities related to mowing grass or similar work. It is important to show understanding and respect for the importance of May 17 for many Norwegians.
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Photo: Morten Brakestad/Stortinget
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