Public holidays in Norway

Holidays play an important role in Norway, both as religious celebrations and as cultural traditions. They not only give us a break from everyday life, but also an opportunity for reflection, celebration and togetherness. In this article, we will take a closer look at the official holidays in Norway, their significance and how they are celebrated.

What is a public holiday?

A public holiday is a day recognized by the state as a day off, often with religious or historical significance. On public holidays, most government offices, schools, and many private businesses are closed. There are also restrictions on the sale of alcohol and certain types of trade. Public holidays are regulated by legislation, specifically the “Law on Public Holidays and Public Holidays Peace”.

Overview of public holidays in Norway

1. New Year's Day (January 1)
New Year's Day marks the start of the new year and is a day for reflection and new beginnings. Many people use the day to relax after New Year's Eve, and it is common to spend time with family and friends.

2. Maundy Thursday (date varies)
This day marks the beginning of the Easter holiday and commemorates Jesus' last meal with his disciples. Maundy Thursday is an official holiday in Norway, and many take the opportunity to travel for Easter holidays.

3. Good Friday (date varies)
Good Friday is the day when Jesus' crucifixion is commemorated. It is a quiet and solemn day in Christian tradition, and many churches hold special services.

4. 1st Easter Sunday (date varies)
This day marks the resurrection of Jesus and is the most important day in the Christian calendar. Many Norwegians celebrate the day with Easter breakfast, often with eggs as a symbol of new life.

5. 2nd Easter Sunday (date varies)
Easter Monday is an extension of the Easter celebration and gives Norwegians an extra day off before everyday life begins again.

6. Labor Day (May 1)
May 1st is an international day for workers' rights and solidarity. In Norway, the day is marked with demonstrations, speeches and cultural events.

7. Constitution Day (May 17)
Norway's National Day is celebrated in memory of the Constitution that was adopted in 1814. May 17th is a day filled with children's parades, marching band music, flags and ice cream – a true folk festival across the country.

8. Ascension Day (date varies)
This day marks the ascension of Jesus, 40 days after Easter. It is a quiet holiday in Norway, often used for outdoor activities or relaxation.

9. Pentecost (date varies)
Pentecost marks the coming of the Holy Spirit to the disciples, 50 days after Easter. It has a strong religious significance in Christianity.

10. Pentecost (date varies)
This day gives Norwegians an extra day off during Pentecost and is often used for family activities or walks in nature.

11. Christmas Day (December 25)
Christmas is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Jesus, and Christmas Day is the most solemn day of the holiday season. Many people spend the day quietly with their immediate family.

12. Boxing Day (December 26)
This day is also called “Stephen's Day” and is a more relaxed part of the Christmas celebration, often used for visits to relatives or dinners with friends.

Semi-official anniversaries

In addition to the official holidays, there are some other anniversaries that have gained great importance in Norway, even though they do not necessarily give people time off from work:

Mother's Day (second Sunday in February)
Father's Day (second Sunday in November)
Valentine's Day (February 14)
All Saints' Day (first Sunday in November)