Gratulerer med dagen Norge!

Norway celebrates its Constitution (Grunnloven) today, signed on May 17 (‘syttende mai‘) in 1814 marking Norway’s independence from Sweden (fully realized in 1905).

Besides the eating ice cream (syttende mai seems to mark the start of summer?!) and drinking (one of the main activities of the day LoL 😉 ), the Norwegians give the celebration a quite nice touch; everyone dresses up! Most will wear a Bunad, the traditional clothing. If you don’t have one, then your best suit or dress will do! (it that sense it is totally opposite to the somewhat clownish King’s Day in NL…:) )

Syttende mai‘ is also known its parades; thousands march all over the country expressing their cultural pride, joy in springtime and honor of those citizens who created Norway’s constitutional government, founding her independence. Especially popular is the Children’s Procession; dressed in their best clothes or national costume, the children march with their school’s band, classmates and teachers. Joy joy!

The sun is out, it’s fan-friggin-tastic weather today! The whole country is ready for a party and so am I: GRATULERER MED DAGEN NORGE!! 🙂