Ever wonder why this tour is traveling to Norway in May rather than a summer month? One of the reasons is having the opportunity to celebrate the national holiday of Norway – Constitution Day or fondly called Syttende Mai. Syttende Mai literally means ’17th of May’ of which Constitution Day is celebrated. It is a HUGE celebration for Norwegians, and we are going to be able to be a part of its festivities in the second largest city of Norway…Bergen.
I’ve read and researched a lot about Syttende Mai over the years. If interested in learning more, you can view a video of a presentation I did to numerous groups in 2021. It’s thirty minutes long.
Or if you don’t have time for that, at least read one or both of these two articles:
“Every Rule You Should(‘nt) Break on Norway’s National Day”
What do you wear on 17th May in Norway?
What is important to remember as a tourist this day?
1. Honor the culture. Dress nicely this day. Norwegians literally wear their ‘finest.’ As guests, don’t wear ragged clothes, blue jeans, tank tops, and the like. Try to dress your best as a traveler. Have red, white, and blue ribbons? Wear it. It’s very common for Norwegians to wear Syttende Mai ribbons on this day.
2. It’s a LONG day. Check out the schedule on the website. First thing of the day is a parade which begins at 7 a.m. Fireworks begin at 11:15 p.m. Folks arriving in Norway will be tired and want to sleep….but remember there’s only one day for Syttende Mai…try to take advantage of it.
3. While one article talks about all the drinking, there were many negative responses to that comment. If you drink, drink responsibly. Alcohol content is stronger in Europe, and Norway has very strict laws regarding alcohol. Visitors should be aware that drinking in a public place is illegal in Norway, and even drinking on your own balcony where you can be seen by others is technically against the law. Making a nuisance of yourself while drunk is likely to end with a night in jail.
4. Norwegians say – “There’s no bad weather, just bad clothing.” It could rain or snow that day…who knows? Don’t let bad weather stop you from experiencing the day. Bring a raincoat or rain poncho. Bring clothing that you can layer.
5. Norwegians eat a ton of ice cream and hot dogs this day. Something you may or may not want to do….fun to do like the people who live there, but we leave the city the next day!
6. Plan ahead! There is LOTS to do this day and you won’t be able to do it all. Pick and choose what looks good to you. Check places of interest ahead of time on the internet. Some museums or butikks may be closed on this day.
7. Finally, there will be a lot of people in the city. Currently, Norway is lax in their covid protocols. Our bus trip will begin the next day. Thank you for protecting yourself and your fellow travelers by wearing masks when in a crowd.
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