On May 17, 2026, Norway celebrates its 212th Constitution Day Anniversary. Known locally as Syttende Mai (the Seventeenth of May), it is the most significant holiday in the country, where military displays are replaced by joyful children’s parades and community feasts.
The Story of the Eidsvoll Constitution
The birth of Norway’s democracy took place in the spring of 1814 amidst the political chaos of the Napoleonic Wars. After nearly 400 years of union with Denmark, Norway faced the threat of being annexed by Sweden.
In a bold act of defiance, 112 representatives gathered at a manor house in Eidsvoll to draft a constitution that would establish Norway as an independent kingdom. Signed on May 17, 1814, the document was inspired by the democratic ideals of the United States and France. Although Norway was forced into a union with Sweden later that year, it was allowed to keep its constitution. Today, it remains the oldest codified constitution in continuous use in Europe.
A Celebration Centered on Children
Unlike most national holidays, Norway’s celebration focuses entirely on the next generation:
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The Children’s Parade (Barnetog): Tens of thousands of schoolchildren march through their local communities, waving Norwegian flags and singing national anthems. In Oslo, the parade winds past the Royal Palace, where the Royal Family waves to every school group from the balcony.
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The Bunad Tradition: Norwegians dress in their finest regional folk costumes, known as bunads. Each design reflects the specific colors and patterns of the owner’s ancestral region.
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Ice Cream and Hot Dogs: For children, the day is affectionately known as “ice cream day.” It is a tradition that kids are allowed to eat as much ice cream and as many hot dogs as they desire throughout the festivities.
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The Russ: High school graduates, known as russ, celebrate their final year of schooling with their own lively parades and hand-decorated buses.–Editor Ali