The Royal Family of Norway wave flags from the balcony of the Royal Palace during the Norwegian Constitution Day celebrations in Oslo on May 17.

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Every year on May 17, Norwegians take to the streets in a dazzling display of national pride.

Flags, color, music—it’s everything typically reserved Norway usually keeps under wraps. But on May 17, restraint is cast aside as Norwegians, known for their usually understated nature, embrace the festivities with enthusiasm.

Whether you’re planning a trip to Norway for this special day or simply curious about what takes place, here’s a look at the traditions, festivities, and unique aspects of Norway’s National Day.

A Celebration Of Norway’s Independence

Syttende Mai, which simply means “May 17” in Norwegian, marks the anniversary of the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in 1814.

This historic event took place in Eidsvoll, not Oslo, and laid the foundation for modern Norway, even though the country remained in a union with Sweden until 1905.

Today, Eidsvoll Manor is a popular historical site where visitors can learn more about this pivotal moment in Norwegian history on a guided tour.

The Ubiquitous Norwegian Flag

From dawn until dusk, the Norwegian flag is a central feature of the celebrations.

The flag of Norway is everywhere on Norwegian Constitution Day, even on cakes.

Jessica Scott

Residents proudly display large flags on their homes, children wave handheld flags in parades, and even cakes are decorated in the red, white, and blue colors of Norway.

May 17 Is A Day For The Children

Unlike many national celebrations that emphasize military displays, Norway’s Constitution Day is primarily about children.

The main parades across the country feature schoolchildren marching through the streets, often accompanied by marching bands. This reflects Norway’s deep-rooted commitment to children’s welfare, evident in generous parental leave policies and a strong focus on youth activities.

For kids, May 17 is as eagerly anticipated as Christmas or a birthday, with a seemingly unlimited supply of hot dogs and ice cream on offer.

May 17 Parades In Every Corner Of Norway

Parades are the heart of Syttende Mai celebrations. In cities and towns of all sizes, schoolchildren march through the streets waving flags and playing in bands.

In Oslo, the largest parade includes students from 119 schools and culminates at the Royal Palace, where the Royal Family waves to the crowd. It takes more than three hours to complete.

You can’t avoid the flag of Norway on May 17 (Norwegian Constitution Day), especially in Oslo.

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In other cities, such as Trondheim, additional community parades feature local clubs and societies. Many neighborhoods also organize smaller school parades throughout the day.

A Feast Of Simple Delights

Food plays a central role in the day’s festivities. The traditional 17th of May breakfast often includes smoked salmon, eggs, strawberries, and a glass of sparkling wine.

Later in the day, the focus very much switches to sweet and simple treats. Street vendors sell hot dogs, waffles, and, of course, ice cream—plenty of it, regardless of the weather.

A Soundtrack Of National Pride

Music is an essential part of the celebrations. Marching bands accompany the parades, filling the streets with a lively soundtrack. The national anthem, Ja, Vi Elsker, rings around the biggest cities and smallest communities throughout the day.

Later in the day, concerts, choir performances, and impromptu musical acts contribute to the festive atmosphere. If there’s one thing May 17 isn’t, it’s quiet.

Dressing For May 17

While Norway is known for its casual dress code, May 17 is an exception. Norwegians take great pride in dressing up for the occasion.

Many men wear suits, and women opt for elegant dresses, but the most striking attire is the traditional bunad, Norway’s folk costume.

Norwegians dressed smartly for May 17 outside the Royal Residence in Trondheim, Norway.

David Nikel

The bunad varies by region and is often passed down through generations, making it a cherished part of the celebration. In many cases, it’s the one time of the year it comes out of the closet.

Remembering The Past

Before the main festivities begin, many towns and cities hold memorial services at the graves of significant historical figures or at statues dedicated to Norway’s past leaders.

In Oslo, Vår Frelsers gravlund is the focus point of the remembrance. Services at the gravestones of Henrik Ibsen and Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson are among many that take place before 9am.

These services are advertised well in advance and provide a moment of reflection before the day’s exuberant celebrations get underway.

Russ: Norway’s Graduating High Schoolers

A unique aspect of Syttende Mai is the presence of the russ—Norwegian high school students in their final year, who celebrate in colorful overalls reflecting their education choice as part of a long-standing tradition.

Their revelry begins in mid-April and culminates on May 17, with many continuing their festivities or recovering from the previous night’s celebrations. In Trondheim, for example, a special russ parade takes place in the afternoon, adding another layer of excitement to the day.

Norway’s graduating high school students (russ) wear colorful overalls.

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While a much-loved tradition in Norway, concerns over cost and social exclusion are frequently raised in the media. “It is a large phenomenon with many positive aspects, but we also have to address its many potential problems and challenges,” said OsloMet researcher Patrick Lie Andersen.

May 17 Celebrations Beyond Norway

Surprisingly, Norway’s Constitution Day is also celebrated in other parts of the world.

In cities with large Norwegian communities, such as London, Seattle, and throughout the Midwest in the United States, expatriates and descendants of Norwegian immigrants come together to honor their heritage.

Unlike in Norway, these events often take place on the closest weekend to May 17, allowing more people to take part.

Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood hosts one of the most prominent Syttende Mai celebrations outside of Norway. The festivities feature a grand parade, traditional music, dance performances, and various cultural exhibits.

Stoughton’s Syttende Mai festival is a weekend-long celebration of Norwegian heritage. Activities include parades, folk dancing, arts and crafts fairs, and authentic Norwegian cuisine.

If you ever have the chance to experience May 17 in Norway or elsewhere, embrace the energy, wave a flag, and indulge in an extra scoop of ice cream—just like the locals do.

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