Norwegians rejoice as they observe Constitution Day, the anniversary of the signing of Norway’s constitution on May 17th. In Norwegian, the day is also known as Syttende Mai. Traditionally, Constitution Day is marked by widespread celebrations across the nation, with parades mainly led by civilians, especially students, rather than the military.
To outsiders, Norway shines as a beacon of Nordic culture, with an illustrious history extending back to the early Arctic explorers of the Viking Age. Today, the nation often appears in the news for its successful education system, sovereign wealth fund, gold medals at the Winter Olympics and celebrities like chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen.
But what does the ordinary Norwegian feel about their nation and their Constitution Day celebrations? In an interview with a Norwegian university student currently studying at University College London, Diplomatic Network (Asia) seeks to learn more about how Norwegians see themselves.
Q: As a Norwegian, what does Constitution Day mean to you, your family and your friends?
I think Constitution Day isn’t really about what it was originally, historically meant to be anymore. Nowadays, it is more of an excuse to hang out with your friends and family in a nice spring setting. It is firstly a community event for me before a national one.
Q: What are common activities/events on Constitution Day, especially popular amongst the youth?
For kids, there are usually classic games like egg-and-spoon races in the parks, which are really, really popular. Young adults often start the day with a “champagne breakfast,” and honestly, it’s one of the biggest day-drinking occasions of the year. It is a very social day for all ages, even foreigners living in Norway get involved and celebrate with us.
Q: Speaking of meals, what is the most Norwegian dish you can think of to celebrate Constitution Day?
The most Norwegian national dish to eat is pølse, which is like a hot dog, but also different, as sometimes in a wrap instead of a bun, so it is like a soft taco hot dog! You can find it as a snack in market stalls and shops across Norway alongside a ton of other Norwegian dishes.
Q: What is something which tourists should do/check out if they visit Norway that is not often talked about in travel books?
I think, honestly, just any kind of hiking is great. I would personally recommend Rondane, which is Norway’s oldest national park. It is a bit further out from Oslo, but you get fewer tourists there, so there is a lot more time to just get lost in nature on your hike.
Expect great fanfare this Constitution Day and jovial spirits from the Norwegian communities across the world.
Diplomatic Network (Asia) wishes Norway a Happy Constitution Day!
