Constitution Day in Svalbard and Jan Mayen
Constitution Day falls on May 17 and marks Norway’s Constitution Day. In Longyearbyen, official celebrations have included a children’s procession, speeches, music and a family gathering; those documented local traditions should not be assumed to describe Jan Mayen as well.[1]
A Norwegian national day in the Arctic
The date recalls the constitutional assembly at Eidsvoll in 1814. The assembly began signing the Constitution on May 17, elected Christian Frederik king that day, and completed signing on May 18. The Constitution’s principles included popular sovereignty, separation of powers and citizens’ rights.[2]
The holiday’s meaning in Svalbard and Jan Mayen comes from their connection to Norway and this national history. The Norwegian government explains that Svalbard and Jan Mayen are part of the Kingdom, but that the application of Norwegian laws can differ between the territories and mainland Norway. In general, laws beyond private law, criminal law and the administration of justice need specific provisions to apply there.[3]
What the holiday means legally
Norway’s Act on 1 and 17 May classifies May 17 as a high day on a par with Sundays. It also sets rules about pay for eligible employees when the date is not a Sunday or another holiday, and about additional pay for employees who work that day. The act’s territorial application should be checked for the specific workplace and location.[4]
A separate Svalbard regulation expressly prohibits the sale of spirits, wine and beer on May 17.[5]
Longyearbyen’s public celebration
Longyearbyen’s local authority has published programmes featuring a morning salute, flag raising, wreath laying and speeches, followed by a church service and a children’s procession through town. The procession has brought together local institutions, schools, kindergartens, associations and residents.[1]
Official schedules have also included a family event with activities for children and an evening gathering at the cultural centre with speeches, performances and music. These are documented examples of Longyearbyen celebrations, rather than a guaranteed programme for every year.[1]
Planning for the day
In Svalbard, sales of spirits, wine and beer are prohibited on May 17. Check directly with the business or service you plan to use, and consult local announcements for the year’s events.[5]
Jan Mayen is a distinct territory with its own rules for how Norwegian law applies. Check with local authorities about public celebrations or closures in Jan Mayen.[3]
Frequently asked questions
When is Constitution Day in Svalbard and Jan Mayen?
It is observed on May 17.[4]
Is May 17 a day off?
What happens in Longyearbyen?
Official programmes have included a children’s procession, flag raising, speeches, music and family activities. The programme can vary from year to year.[1]
Are shops and services open?
Svalbard’s regulation prohibits sales of spirits, wine and beer on May 17. Check opening hours with each shop, bank, office or transport service before you go.[5]
Sources and references
Sources used for Constitution Day in Svalbard & Jan Mayen:
- Slik blir 17. mai i Longyearbyen- Longyearbyen lokalstyre
- Eidsvoll og Grunnloven 1814- Stortinget
- Hvor gjelder norsk lovgivning?- Utenriksdepartementet
- Lov om 1 og 17 mai- Arbeidstilsynet
- Forskrift om alkoholordningen for Svalbard- Regjeringen.no