Hipp, hipp, hurra! Celebrating Norway's National Day

The 17th May is a national holiday in Norway, and marks the anniversary of the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in 1814 at Eidsvoll. This ended a 400-year union with Denmark following defeat in the Napoleonic War, and was a failed attempt to prevent Norway being ceded to Sweden, a union which was itself dissolved less than 100 years later. The initial celebrations began during this union with Sweden, and were even banned for almost a decade by King Karl Johan of Sweden and Norway. It wasn't until 1833 when Norwegian poet, Henrik Wergeland, made the first public address that led to 17th May being so widely celebrated.

The most integral part of National Day in Norway is the children's parade. These parades take place in towns and cities across the country, and attract large crowds of locals wearing red, white and blue ribbons or waving Norwegian flags. This tradition began in 1870, and came from the author Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson, who also wrote the Norwegian national anthem. Every school organises their own part in the parade, with the school's banner at the start of each group and marching bands following on, thus separating each school. The largest parade in Oslo features around 100 schools and ends as it passes the palace where the Royal family wave to the public from the main balcony. The parade is followed by the National anthem, "Ja, vi elsker dette landet" (Yes, we love this country).

Most people get dressed up for the occasion, and many wear traditional clothing known as a 'bunad'. There are many types of bunad in Norway, so you will notice that Norwegians tend to wear the one that represents the area they grew up or that has significant ancestral meaning. It's also common to spend time with family and good friends, meeting up for breakfast before the parades start or getting together later for hot dogs and ice cream as the party continues. A lot of places have visiting also fair grounds for some family fun.

Students in their final year of school also like to celebrate in style. Following a lengthy period of partying, the graduating class, or 'Russ' in Norwegian, will often drive through their local area on their party buses later in the day. They'll be easily identifiable by their red or blue overalls, so you could always ask for a 'russekort' to take home as a souvenir. This is a small card with some basic personal information and a joke.

If you're planning on visiting us during this time, keep in mind that many roads and businesses may not be open as normal. You'd also be wise to book a table in advance if you plan on eating out, as restaurants can get pretty busy. That said, we'd be more than happy to welcome you to join us to celebrate here in Norway or at one of the 17th May celebrations which take place in many different countries. Don't forget to learn the phrase 'Gratulerer med dagen'. You'll be saying this to everyone you greet!