Holidays in Norway in 2025
Norway, a land of breathtaking fjords, northern lights, and rich cultural heritage, celebrates a variety of holidays that reflect its history, traditions, and love for nature. These holidays range from national celebrations and historical commemorations to unique customs deeply rooted in Norwegian identity.
Public Holidays in Norway
Holidays in 2025
Norway observes several public holidays throughout the year, most of which are based on Christian traditions. Many businesses and government offices close on these days, allowing Norwegians to spend time with family or engage in recreational activities.
New Year's Day (Nyttårsdag) – January 1
Norwegians usher in the new year with celebrations that often involve fireworks, parties, and family gatherings. Many people take part in outdoor activities such as skiing or hiking on the first day of the year.
Easter Holidays (Påske) – March/April
Easter in Norway is an extended holiday that includes Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday. It is common for Norwegians to retreat to mountain cabins for skiing and relaxation. The holiday is also marked by traditional meals, egg hunts, and a popular tradition of reading crime novels—known as "Påskekrim."
Constitution Day (Grunnlovsdagen) – May 17
Norway’s Constitution Day is the most significant national celebration, commemorating the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in 1814. Streets fill with parades featuring school children dressed in bunads (traditional Norwegian attire), marching bands, and patriotic decorations. The day is marked by speeches, flag-raising ceremonies, and festive gatherings.
Christmas (Jul) – December 24-26
Christmas is one of the most cherished holidays in Norway, with preparations starting weeks in advance. Families decorate their homes with candles, lights, and traditional ornaments, and enjoy festive meals including ribbe (pork ribs), pinnekjøtt (dried lamb ribs), and lutefisk. On Christmas Eve, people exchange gifts, attend church services, and partake in various local traditions.
Other Notable Holidays and Traditions
Beyond official public holidays, Norway has other unique celebrations:
Midsummer (Sankthans) – June 23
Norwegians celebrate the summer solstice with bonfires, outdoor festivities, and feasts by the fjords. This tradition, deeply rooted in Scandinavian culture, symbolizes the peak of summer with its long, sunlit days.
Saint Olaf's Day (Olsok) – July 29
Olsok honors Saint Olaf, a historical figure instrumental in Norway’s Christianization. Ceremonies, reenactments, and pilgrimages are common, particularly at the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim.
Modern Holiday Traditions
In addition to historical and religious observances, Norway embraces international holidays such as Halloween and Valentine’s Day, though they are less traditionally Norwegian. Many Norwegians also celebrate birthdays and family milestones with festive gatherings and outdoor adventures.
From centuries-old customs to contemporary celebrations, Norway’s holidays are a blend of tradition, festivity, and appreciation of nature. Whether it’s waving the flag on Constitution Day, enjoying a quiet Easter in the mountains, or sharing Christmas magic with loved ones, holidays in Norway reflect the country's unique identity and deep cultural roots.
Your can reaad about popular destinations from Norway for tourism on holidays HERE
How shops work on holidays
To check the mode of the store, you can go to the site or enter the phrase in Google
Holiday name kauppojen aukioloajat name of shop
For example, to find out the schedule for REMA work on Easter, enter
REMA
Then you need to select the store in which you are traveling and on its page see the schedule.
If you are interested in a particular holiday - go on its page by clicking on the name in the table.
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