Constitution Day, 17 May
Norway's national day - not a military parade but rivers of children in folk costume, brass bands and flags filling every town on 17 May.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
On 17 May Norway celebrates its constitution of 1814, and it does so in a way unlike almost any other national day: instead of soldiers, the streets fill with children's parades, brass bands, ice cream and thousands of people in the bunad, the regional folk costume. In Oslo the great children's procession passes the royal palace to greet the royal family.
What you actually see
- The children's parade - the rivers of schoolchildren with flags and bands.
- The bunad - the regional folk costumes worn with pride across the country.
- The royal greeting - in Oslo, the procession past the palace balcony.
- Ice cream and hot dogs - the day children are allowed all they want.
When to go
17 May, the one day it happens, in any town, though Oslo and Bergen host the largest processions. Arrive early to see the parade and dress up if you can.
Honest expectations
It is a single day, so a trip must be timed to it, and it is busy and celebratory rather than a sight to see any other time. It is a family and civic festival, so join in rather than watch from afar. Accommodation in the cities books up around the date.
Nearby
Every town celebrates; the Oslo procession centres on the royal palace and Karl Johans gate.
What to pack for Constitution Day, 17 May
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
