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Norwegian Culture and Holidays
Learn about the most important Norwegian holidays and traditions — 17 May, Christmas, Easter and more.
Knowing about Norwegian holidays helps you understand the culture and become part of society:
The most important holidays
| Holiday | Date | What is it? |
|---|---|---|
| 17. mai | 17 May | Norway National Day — parades, ice cream and traditional costumes |
| jul | 24 December | Christmas Eve with family, gifts and Father Christmas |
| påske | March/April | Easter holidays, cabin life and Easter eggs |
| nyttår | 31 Dec / 1 Jan | Fireworks and champagne at midnight |
| Sankthans | 23 June | Midsummer celebration with bonfires |
Cultural words
| Word | Explanation |
|---|---|
| bunad | Traditional Norwegian folk costume — worn on 17 May |
| hytte | Holiday cabin in the mountains or by the sea — very popular! |
| friluftsliv | Outdoor life — hiking, skiing, swimming |
| dugnad | Voluntary communal work — neighbours helping each other |
17 May — Norway biggest day
17 May is Norway Constitution Day since 1814. It is the children day with parades through the streets, ice cream, hot dogs and flags. Everyone is welcome to join — regardless of background!
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