Norway’s national day

Brazilians have their carnival, the Irish Saint Patrick’s Day. Norway’s answer? On 17 May, we celebrate the signing of the constitution in 1814. In Norway, Constitution Day is huge. 

While many countries celebrate their national day with a military parade, Norway’s 17 May is more of a party for everyone, especially children. Before taking to the streets, many like to gather for a 17 May breakfast – often a pot luck with friends and neighbours – with freshly baked bread, scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, and (for the grown-ups) champagne.

Children’s parades then take place across the country, as marching bands lead processions through local communities. The biggest parades attract tens of thousands of people, who wave flags and shouting “hurray!”. In Oslo, the parade is greeted by the royal family, who wave tirelessly to the crowds from the balcony of the Royal Palace.

It's a patriotic, but very inclusive and joyous atmosphere – visitors are welcomed warmly! The focus is mostly on eating huge amounts of ice cream and hot dogs, listening to speeches and music, and playing games at local schools.

The day is also an opportunity to show off one's bunad, Norway’s traditional costume worn by both men and women. Like a Scottish kilt, there are many variations, with colours and styles indicating where in Norway the owner’s ancestry lies.

You can also spot teenagers in red, blue, black, or green jumpsuits. These are members of the graduating class who are in their final year of upper secondary school, called russ. Most of them look exhausted by 17 May, not so much from studying for their exams as partying with their peers…

The russ have their own parades, with dancing teens in hand decorated buses and vans blaring loud music. They make for a joyous and raucous sight. Ask them for a russekort, and you will get their personal calling card containing their contact info, photo and a joke. Popular with children, the cards make the perfect 17 May souvenir. 

This is a truly special time to be in Norway, and you should definitely join in on the celebrations. While most shops and offices are closed, you need to book a table in advance if you want to go out for lunch or dinner, although there are plenty of vendors selling food to the crowds. 

If you are driving, bear in mind that the centre of most cities and towns will be closed off during the parades.