Today, May 17th, is Norways national day. This day is usually celebrated with the local community gathering somewhere to walk in a parade, eat hot dogs/cakes/soda and wave the Norwegian flag while shouting HURRA!
Now this parade is mainly a childrens parade, but many/most adults join in as well as a marching band. There is many stories of why it’s a childrens parade, but here is the version I’ve been told:
When Norway in 1814 got their own constitution, they still had/got a Swedish king and was partly in a union with Sweden for a while. As far as I’ve heard, the Swedish did not want the Norwegians to celebrate getting their own constitution. So since they would stop grown ups from celebrating, the clever Norwegians sent out their children with Norwegian flags. (Not sure why children wouldn’t be stopped). I can’t say this for certain people, so keep an open mind. But this tradtition has lived on in Norwegians for a long time. If you don’t believe me, take a look yourselves…
Did I forget to mention that a lot of people around here come driving in fancy veteran cars on this day?
Hooray! I hope you notice all the festive national outfits/costumes as well! For those of you who don’t know, this is called a bunad and their are tons of different types depending on where in the country your family is from. They are very pretty, but veeery expensive. The picture above is of me and my siblings, and to all my Norwegian readers (and even soon to be Norwegian readers) we wish you a Happy Nationalday!
-S.
it looks like u had so much fun! i can't wait to spend 17.mai in norway next year :-) hope u have a great week!
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