Have you ever wondered which holidays are the most celebrated in Norway? Or maybe you’re planning a trip and want to know when shops and public offices might be closed? In this post, you’ll find a full calendar of public holidays in Norway, discover unique traditions, and learn some fun facts that make Norwegian holidays truly special.
Calendar of Norwegian Holidays and Public Days Off
| Date | Holiday | Holiday Description |
|---|---|---|
| January 1 | New Year’s Day (Nyttårsdag) | The start of the new year, celebrated peacefully with family gatherings. |
| Maundy Thursday | Skjærtorsdag | Marks the beginning of Easter festivities; many Norwegians head to mountain cabins. |
| Good Friday | Langfredag | A day of reflection, commemorating the Passion of Christ. |
| May 1 | Labour Day (Arbeidernes dag) | A day of worker solidarity, celebrated with parades and events in major cities. |
| May 17 | Constitution Day (Grunnlovsdagen) | Norway’s most important national holiday, full of parades, flags, and traditional bunad attire. |
| December 25 | Christmas Day (Juledag) | A day of family gatherings and celebrating the birth of Christ. |
Key Norwegian Holidays and Traditions
- Constitution Day – May 17
- This is Norway’s biggest and most joyous holiday. Children parade through the streets waving flags, and adults dress in traditional costumes called bunad. Celebrations include music, speeches, and plenty of ice cream and hot dogs.
- Midsummer Night – June 23
- A celebration of the summer solstice, marked by bonfires, music, and outdoor gatherings. It harkens back to ancient Viking traditions of fire and feasting.
- Easter (Påske)
- Besides its religious significance, Easter in Norway is a time for mountain getaways. Families enjoy skiing trips, solve mystery novels (påskekrim), and relax in their cozy cabins (hytter).
- Christmas (Jul)
- Christmas festivities begin with Advent, as Norwegians decorate their homes, bake traditional cookies (småkaker), and visit festive Christmas markets. On Christmas Eve (December 24), families gather for dinner, often featuring dishes like ribbe (pork ribs).
Fun Facts About Norwegian Holidays
- National Flag: During major holidays like May 17 and Christmas, Norwegians decorate their homes with flags, symbolizing national pride.
- Mountain Escapes: Easter and other long weekends are perfect for trips to mountain cabins, a cherished Norwegian tradition.
- Sweet Tooth: During Christmas, Norwegians bake seven types of cookies—a tradition with roots that go back centuries!
Why Is It Important to Know Norwegian Holidays?
Understanding Norwegian holidays and public days off can help you better plan your travels or daily activities. Keep in mind that on public holidays, most shops and restaurants are closed, which can affect your itinerary.
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