Constitution Day (Norway) - May 17th Countdown 2025
Constitution Day (Norway) - May 17th
Constitution Day, or Syttende Mai (meaning "Seventeenth of May"), is the national day of Norway and is celebrated on May 17th each year. It commemorates the signing of the Constitution of Norway at Eidsvoll on May 17, 1814. This constitution declared Norway an independent kingdom after more than 400 years of union with Denmark.
The Constitution of 1814
Following the Napoleonic Wars, Denmark-Norway was forced to cede Norway to Sweden under the Treaty of Kiel in 1814. However, a Norwegian assembly convened at Eidsvoll and drafted a liberal constitution, electing their own king, Christian Frederick. Although Sweden eventually forced Norway into a personal union later that year, the Eidsvoll Constitution was preserved and laid the foundation for Norway's later full independence.
The Constitution of 1814 was progressive for its time, establishing a constitutional monarchy with a separation of powers and guaranteeing certain rights to citizens.
How Constitution Day is Celebrated
Constitution Day is a vibrant and joyous celebration in Norway, characterized by:
- Children's Parades (Barnetoget): The most prominent feature of the day is the children's parade, where schoolchildren march with flags and banners. The largest parade takes place in Oslo, where the Royal Family greets the parade from the palace balcony.
- National Costumes (Bunad): Many Norwegians wear their traditional national costumes, known as bunads, which vary by region.
- Waving Flags: The Norwegian flag is flown everywhere, and people often carry small flags.
- Speeches and Toasts: Speeches and toasts are made throughout the day, celebrating the constitution and Norwegian identity.
- Festivities and Gatherings: People gather in parks and public spaces for picnics, games, and other festivities.
- School Bands: School bands march and play music in the parades.
Significance Today
Constitution Day is a powerful expression of Norwegian national identity and pride. It is a day when Norwegians come together to celebrate their history, their constitution, and their shared values. The focus on children in the celebrations underscores the importance of passing on these values to future generations.