Norway’s National Day

Brazil has its carnival, and Ireland has Saint Patrick’s Day. But what does Norway have? On the 17th of May, they celebrate the signing of the constitution in 1814. In Norway, Constitution Day is huge – all over the country.

While many countries celebrate their national day with a military parade, Norway’s 17th of May is a party for everyone, especially children. Before heading out to the parades and festivities, many like to get together to share a huge breakfast – often a pot luck with friends, family, and neighbours – with freshly baked bread, scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, and (for the grown-ups) some bubbly.

Children's parades, marching bands, traditional costumes, and ice cream. Lots of ice cream. Norway's Constitution Day is quite a party!

All over Norway, children’s parades are a key part of the celebrations, with marching bands, and an abundance of flags.

The longest parade is in Oslo, where about 100,000 people pack the city centre. The parade includes some 100 schools and passes the Royal Palace, where the royal family waves to the crowds from the balcony. The parade is broadcast on national television.