In Norway, ‘Constitution Day’ is celebrated on the 17th of May, often only referred to in Norwegian as the ’17th of May’. Among Norwegians, the day is also referred to as Syttende mai (“Seventeenth of May”), Nasjonaldagen (“National Day”), or Grunnlovsdagen (“Constitution Day”), although the latter is less frequent. The celebration is for the Constitution and the 1814 independence, which actually makes the Norwegian Constitution the second oldest in the world to still be in use, just behind the US Constitution. Back in 1814, the Norwegian constitution might have been the most democratic in the world, therefore May 17 is also a celebration of democracy in general. Due to the Napoleonic Wars in Europe, until 1814 and from the 15th century Norway was in a union with Denmark: Denmark was on the side of the French whereas Sweden supported the coalition led by Great Britain and Russia, and when France lost the war, the victors agreed to transfer Norway from Denmark to Sweden. This decision was very unpopular in Norway, so independence was declared and a constitution made: on May 17 Norway also celebrates independence. By historical coincidence, World War II ended in Norway nine days before Constitution Day on 8 May 1945, when the occupying German forces surrendered. Even if Liberation Day is an official flag day in Norway, the day is not an official holiday and not widely celebrated. Instead, a new and broader meaning has been added to the celebration of Norwegian Constitution Day on 17 May to reflect the victory over Nazi oppression.
Celebrations and parades
The day is marked by grand parades, traditional costumes, and a strong sense of national pride. In cities across Norway, children are at the center of the festivities. Children’s parades (barnetog) fill the streets, often led by school bands. Oslo’s main event is a parade that passes by the Royal Palace, where the royal family greets the crowds from the balcony. Many Norwegians wear the ‘bunad’, Norway’s traditional national costume, which varies by region, adding vibrant colors to the celebrations. May 17 is also a day of speeches, music, and flags. Norwegians typically enjoy ice cream, hot dogs, and other festive treats as they celebrate their country’s freedom and democracy. Unlike many other national holidays, May 17 is a day of joy and celebration rather than military parades, reflecting Norway’s commitment to peace and unity. Norwegian communities worldwide, from Minnesota to Sydney, also celebrate Syttende Mai. These events keep the connection to Norway alive for the diaspora, with parades, concerts, and cultural activities echoing the homeland’s festivities.
Symbols of Syttende Mai
Norwegian Flag: Waved proudly everywhere.
Russ Students: High school graduates dressed in red or blue overalls celebrating their final school year with playful antics.
Eidsvoll Building: The historic site of the constitution’s signing, often the focus of national broadcasts.
