Constitution Day in Norway
Norway celebrates Constitution Day on 17 May, the anniversary of the Constitution signed at Eidsvoll in 1814.[3][4] The fixed date is a public holiday, marked by children’s parades, flags, traditional dress and gatherings across the country.[1][4]
A holiday rooted in the Constitution
The Constitution was adopted in 1814, as Norway moved from its union with Denmark toward a new political settlement with Sweden. It established principles including the separation of powers and popular sovereignty, and remained in force after Norway entered the union with Sweden later that year.[3]
The day’s observance has its own history. Celebrations began soon after 1814, were prohibited by King Karl Johan from 1820 to 1829, and returned; the first public speech marking the day was delivered in 1833. Norway’s national day has been celebrated on 17 May since then.[4]
Public holiday and work rules
Norwegian law designates 17 May as a public holiday and treats it as equivalent to a Sunday for most legal purposes. The same law applies Sunday rules to sales from fixed retail outlets. The holiday remains on 17 May; the cited law does not name a substitute weekday when the date falls on a Sunday.[1]
Work on Sundays and public holidays is generally not permitted unless the nature of the work requires it. Employees who are required to work on 17 May are entitled to ordinary pay and a premium; if no agreement or regulation sets the premium, the Labour Inspection Authority says it must be at least 50% of ordinary pay.[2][5]
Parades, dress and food
Children’s processions are central to celebrations around Norway. Local parades often feature marching bands and flags. In Oslo, the procession passes the Royal Palace, where the royal family greets the crowd; Bergen is known for its Buekorps, neighbourhood groups of marching drummers.[4]
Many people wear a bunad, a traditional costume with regional variations, or festive dress inspired by it. Families and friends often share breakfast before going to parades. Ice cream and hot dogs are popular during the day, alongside speeches, music and games at local schools.[4]
The mood is patriotic and welcoming, with celebrations taking place in villages and cities alike. The parades and customs are civilian celebrations rather than military displays, with children and local communities at their centre.[4]
What visitors should expect
Most shops and offices are closed, although food stalls and vendors serve parade crowds. Restaurants can be busy, so booking ahead is sensible if you plan to eat out. In city and town centres, roads may be closed to traffic during processions; check local travel information before setting out.[4]
Frequently asked questions
When is Constitution Day in Norway?
It is celebrated every year on 17 May, the date the Constitution was signed in 1814.[4]
Is 17 May a public holiday and a day off?
Are shops and offices open?
Most shops and offices are closed. Food stalls and vendors may be open near celebrations, and restaurants can be busy.[4]
What should I expect if I am travelling around Norway?
Expect parades in communities across the country and possible road closures in town and city centres. Check local travel information and allow extra time around procession routes.[4]
Sources and references
Sources used for Constitution Day in Norway:
- Lov om 1 og 17 mai- Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority
- Working Environment Act- Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority
- Milestones in Norway’s democratic history- The Storting
- Norway’s national day: 17th of May | The Norwegian Constitution Day- Visit Norway
- Pay- Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority