17th of May (Norway's Constitution Day) in Oslo
Everything internationals need to know about Norway’s national day: history, parades, food, bunads, and the unique Russ tradition.
Every year on the 17th of May, Norway celebrates Constitution Day, the country's most important public holiday. It is an official holiday marked with parades, flags, music, food, and public celebrations across the country. In Oslo, the main event is the grant children's parade that marches up Karl Johans Gate toward the Royal Palace, where the Royal Family greets the crowds.
Everyone is welcome to join the celebrations.
History and background of the 17th of May
Norway's constitution was signed on 17 May, 1814 when Norway declared independence as a kingdom after centuries under Danish rule. Although Norway soon entered a union with Sweden after the constitution was signed, this important date continues to be celebrated as a symbol of national identity.
When the union with Sweden dissolved in 1905, the day took on an even greater significance. Prince Carl of Denmark was invited to be King of an independent Norway, and he took the name Haakon VII.
17th of May celebrations in Oslo
The largest parade in the country takes place in Oslo. More than 120 schools participate, with children marching through the city center accompanied by brass bands. The parade passes the Royal Palace, where the Royal Family stands on the balcony to greet the marchers. Only children are allowed to join the parade, and participation must be administered by their school. But everyone is welcome to line the streets, wave flags, and cheer the students on!
It is common to start the celebration with a festive breakfast with friends and family, and then watch the parade in the city center. After the main parade, people often gather for sausages, hot dogs, cakes, and ice creams throughout the city, at their local school, or at a family or friend's house.
- Find the official programme for the celebration in Oslo from Oslo kommune.
Transportation and logistics
The 17th of May is a public holiday, which means that offices and businesses are closed. You should be prepared for major grocery stores and other businesses to be closed.
Public transport runs on a holiday schedule, and the city center is closed to car traffic. It is best to walk, cycle, or use public transport to reach the celebrations.
17th of May traditions
Traditional folk costume: the bunad
People dress in their finest clothes for 17 May. You will see people wearing dresses and suits, and many will wear the national costume, called bunad. The Norwegian bunad is a traditional folk costume worn by men and women.
- Read more about the bunad tradition from Welcome to Oslo.
Traditional food on the 17th of May
Many Norwegians begin their day early with a breakfast alongside family and friends. It's often a potluck-style meal, with people bringing along scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, cured meats, and even alcoholic beverages.
During the day hot dogs, ice cream, and soda are the most popular. It is said that on this day the kids are allowed as many ice creams as they want!
The traditional sour cream porridge (Rømmegrøt) and cured meat are very popular around the country, but maybe not as common in Oslo.
If you plan to eat out in a restaurant for lunch or dinner, you should definitely book a table in advance. The city gets very crowded on this day.
High school graduates celebrate as russ
Alongside the students parading on the 17th of May, you may notice high school graduates participating while wearing red or blue overalls or pants, covered in letters, badges, and patches. This is part of the unique Norwegian tradition of "russ."
- Learn more about Russ on Welcome to Oslo's Cornerstones of Society page.
A holiday for everyone
The 17th of May is more than just a public holiday, it is a celebration of Norwegian identity, history, and community spirit. For internationals living in Oslo, it's the perfect chance to experience traditions firsthand, from the children's parade to the bunads and ice cream. Whether you join the crowds on Karl Johans Gate or take part in your local school's festivities, it is a day to wave a flag and feel part of the celebration!