03 mins | 10 Oct 2024

Holidays and Festivals in Norway

When you think about Norway, you undoubtedly envision captivating fjords and stunning scenery. But Norway is much more than just nature at its finest. Scratch under the lovely surface to reveal the rich culture and traditional practices that give the country its own delight. 
Want to experience the delights of Norway’s event calendar? Here are some of the top Norwegian celebrations and festivals to attend during your stay.

Constitution Day

If there is one celebration that properly embodies the spirit of Norway, it is Norwegian Constitution Day. Norwegian Independence Day, which commemorates the signing of the Norwegian Constitution on May 17, 1814, is a significant and enjoyable event.
With locals dressed traditionally (bunads) and children enthusiastically waving Norwegian flags, it’s difficult not to feel thoroughly immersed in the overwhelming sense of national pride. A vacation to Norway will provide you with a front-row seat to the celebrations on board the ship, as well as the opportunity to enjoy some delicious street food in the ports.

Saint John’s Eve​

Summer is a great season to visit Norway. The Midnight Sun allows for limitless days north of the Arctic Circle and ensures continuous daylight along the Norwegian shoreline. All summer long, there will be a variety of activities, ranging from food fairs to world-class concerts.
On June 23rd, Norwegians gather to commemorate the birth of Saint John the Baptist and the summer solstice, lighting massive bonfires as the sun sets over the horizon. Few sites are as stunning as this one; prepare for a visual, auditory, and gastronomical feast!

Beregenfest

Looking for additional activities to do during the Norwegian summer? Look no further than Bergenfest, a music festival featuring the best of Norwegian and worldwide music. You can see a variety of live acts, including music, theatre, dance, and visual arts, over the course of two weeks in May or June.
As if that wasn’t enough, it takes place at Bergenhus Fortress, a medieval castle in Norway’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed neighborhood of Bryggen. You’ll get to immerse yourself in Norway’s artistic culture while admiring the beauty of your surroundings!

St. Olav’s Day

The St. Olav Festival in Trondheim showcases Norway’s interesting medieval heritage. The annual festival, held on July 29th, is a tribute to Norway’s patron saint, St. Olav, who played a significant role in defining Norway’s rich Christian heritage. 
Even if you’re not very interested in medieval history, the magnificent processions, theatrical plays, and lavish costumes are certainly worth seeing!

Northern Lights Festival

Seeing the Northern Lights is a very breathtaking experience. But when you mix that with traditional Norwegian music, the effect becomes even more amazing.
The Northern Lights Festival, which runs from January 26th to February 2nd, comprises live outdoor concerts by renowned musicians, with the goal that the aurora borealis would make an appearance or two at the same time.

Santa Lucia

When visiting Norway during the winter months, Christmas isn’t the only pleasure. On December 13th, you’ll also be able to participate in the Santa Lucia celebrations, which engulf the Scandinavian countries in a whirlwind of dazzling lights and festivities. The celebration, named after the Christian martyr Saint Lucia, aims to be a source of light and hope during the darkest time of year. 
Schoolchildren dress in white and sing traditional songs, led by a chosen girl who will represent Lucia. While Santa Lucia is mostly aimed toward children and families, don’t let that deter you from enjoying the lively music and delicious snacks – the saffron buns are a particular highlight!

Team Cruise Professionals