The use of drawings in advertising on May 17

 

May 17, Norway's National Day, is a day filled with joy, traditions and national pride. All over the country, people gather to celebrate with children's parades, Norwegian flags, traditional costumes and a festive atmosphere. For many businesses and organizations, this day also represents an opportunity to communicate with their audience in a way that is both relevant and engaging.

An interesting aspect of this is how drawings are increasingly being used in advertising and communication, especially on a day like May 17th. Why drawings? Drawings have a unique ability to convey moods and emotions in a way that can often be more universal than photographs. While photographs are linked to specific moments and people, drawings can be more abstract and open to interpretation. This gives them a timelessness that makes them particularly suitable for holidays and celebrations like May 17th.

Motifs such as children with balloons, children with Norwegian flags and decorated people in traditional Norwegian costumes are classic elements often used in connection with the National Day. When these are presented as drawings, they can appear more playful and nostalgic, which appeals to a wide audience. Drawings can also allow for creative freedom, where the artist can exaggerate or stylize certain elements to reinforce the message.

Drawings versus photographs
Photographs have long been a dominant form of visual communication in advertising. They provide a sense of realism and authenticity that is often valuable. But on a day like May 17, when tradition and community are at the center, drawings can offer something more, a sense of craftsmanship and personal touch. Drawings can also help create a more inclusive representation. While photographs often show specific people or situations, drawings can more easily abstract or generalize so that more people can identify with the motifs. For example, a drawing of a group of children with flags can give the impression of a diversity that might not be as clear in a photo. 

 

Traditions

The Children's Parade

A tribute to the future
One of the most iconic traditions on May 17th is the children’s parade. Schoolchildren from all over the country participate in the parades, often wearing traditional Norwegian costumes or fancy clothes, waving Norwegian flags and singing national songs such as “Yes, we love this country.” The parades are often led by marching bands that play marches and add to the festive atmosphere. This is a day where children are at the center, and the celebration is a tribute to the future and the values on which Norway is built.

National costume

A symbol of Norwegian culture
The national costume (bunad) plays a central role in the May 17th celebrations. This traditional garment, which varies from region to region, is a strong symbol of Norwegian cultural heritage. Many Norwegians wear the bunad on this day to show pride in their belonging and tradition. For those who do not wear the bunad, it is customary to dress in nice clothes to mark the holiday.

Breakfast with family and friends

The day often starts with a May 17th breakfast, either at home or with friends and neighbors. This meal is often extra festive and includes dishes such as scrambled eggs, smoked salmon, cured meats, fruit and cakes. For many, breakfast is an important social event that sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Ice cream, hot dogs and soda 

Food fun for young and old
No May 17th celebration is complete without ice cream and hot dogs. It is almost an unwritten rule that children can eat as much ice cream as they want on this day. Hot dogs in bread or lompe are also a classic that are served all over the country. The simplicity of these dishes makes them perfect for a day filled with activities.

Speech of the day

In many cities and towns, official speeches are held for the day. These speeches often reflect on Norway's history, freedom and democratic values. The speeches can be given by local politicians, schoolchildren or other social actors, and they help to give the day a solemn setting.

Citizens' parade and other local traditions

In addition to the children's parade, a civic parade is often held later in the day. The civic parade consists of various teams, associations and organizations that showcase their activities and contributions to the local community. This provides a great opportunity to celebrate the diversity and unity of the local community.

Games and fun for the children

On May 17th, games and competitions for children are often held, such as sack races, potato races and tug-of-war. Such activities create a lot of laughter and joy, while also strengthening the community among the participants.

National anthems and music

Music is an important part of the May 17th celebration. In addition to band music on the trains, the national anthems are sung with great enthusiasm. "Yes, we love this country" is the main song for the day, but other songs such as "Norway in red, white and blue" are also often performed.

A day for everyone

May 17th is more than just a celebration of history; it is a day that brings the entire nation together in joy and togetherness. Whether participating in the parades, enjoying ice cream in the sun, or singing national anthems, this is a day where everyone can feel part of something bigger.

 

May 17 drawings