Embracing “Syttende Mai” (May 17): Celebrating the Norwegian Constitution Day

Introduction

Known locally as “Syttende mai” or “Nasjonaldagen”, Norwegian Constitution Day is a vibrant celebration held annually on May 17. The day commemorates the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in Eidsvoll on May 17, 1814, which marked Norway’s independence from Denmark. This guide will provide you with a cultural and linguistic understanding of this significant Norwegian celebration.

Getting Ready for the Day

Norwegian Vocabulary

• a flag: et flagg
• a parade: en parade
• a national costume: en bunad
• a marching band: et skolekorps

Preparation for Syttende mai often begins weeks in advance. Residents and businesses start by displaying “Norske flagg” (Norwegian flags) on buildings and in public spaces. The traditional Norwegian costume, known as the “Bunad,” is also prepared for wearing on the day.

School children also start rehearsing with their “Skolekorps” (school marching bands) for the parade that is central to the day’s celebrations.

The Festivities of the Day

Norwegian Vocabulary

• the Children’s parade: Barnetoget
• the People’s parade: Folketoget
• a Constitution Day speech: en Grunnlovsdagstale
• an ice cream: en iskrem
• a hot dog: ei pølse

Syttende mai is typically marked by “Barnetoget” (Children’s parade), a procession of school children through the streets, often led by their school’s marching band. Later on the “Folketoget” (the People’s parade) where all people gathers in a parade. The largest parade occurs in Oslo and includes a royal salute from the palace balcony to the King and Queen.

A “Grunnlovsdagstale” (Constitution Day speech) is also a key event, with selected speakers reflecting on the day’s significance and the values enshrined in the Norwegian constitution.

Food also plays a central role in the celebration. While traditional Norwegian dishes are enjoyed, “iskrem” (ice cream) and “pølse” (hot dog) are particular favorites, especially amongst the younger crowd.

Norwegian Greetings for the Day

Norwegian Vocabulary

• Good day: God dag
• Congratulations: Gratulerer
• Happy National Day: Gratulerer med dagen

Learning some Norwegian greetings is essential to truly immerse yourself in the festivities. Begin with a simple “God dag” (Good day). You can also use “Gratulerer” (Congratulations) to congratulate someone on this special day. Moreover, to wish someone a Happy National Day, you can say “Gratulerer med dagen”.

The day’s celebrations often conclude with community activities like games, music, and “sang” (song).

Embracing the Spirit of Syttende Mai

• cheers: skål
• celebration: feiring

As you join the “feiring” (celebration), make sure to raise a toast to Norway’s independence and say “skål” (cheers)! Remember, syttende mai is more than just the parades and costumes. It’s a day of national pride, a celebration of freedom, and a tribute to the enduring spirit of Norway.

Norwegian Vocabulary

• Thank you: Takk
• Please: Vennligst
• Welcome: Velkommen

As the day draws to a close, remember to say “takk” (thank you) to those who made the day special. Use “vennligst” (Please) when making requests, and extend a “velkommen” (welcome) to newcomers joining the celebration.

No matter where you are in the world, you can participate in the joy, unity, and spirit of syttende mai. By learning these Norwegian phrases and understanding the traditions, you can fully immerse yourself in the celebration of this significant day in Norwegian history.

So, look at all the people wearing bunad, wave the Norwegian flag, and indulge in some iskrem and pølse. Remember to say “Gratulerer med dagen” to those around you and raise a toast to Norway’s independence. Happy Constitution Day!