Public Holidays in Norway in 2024
Norway, a Scandinavian country known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, observes several public holidays throughout the year. These holidays reflect both religious traditions and significant historical events, providing opportunities for Norwegians to celebrate, reflect, and spend time with family and friends. From religious observances like Easter and Christmas to national celebrations such as Constitution Day, these holidays hold special importance in the hearts of Norwegians. Below is a comprehensive list and description of public holidays in Norway for the year 2024.
National Holidays
New Year’s Day (Første nyttårsdag) – January 1st
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. In Norway, it is a time for gatherings with family and friends, festive meals, and fireworks displays. Many Norwegians also participate in outdoor activities such as skiing and skating to kick off the new year.
Maundy Thursday (Skjærtorsdag) – April 4th
Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday, is part of Holy Week in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with his disciples. In Norway, Maundy Thursday is a public holiday, and many people attend church services and participate in religious processions and rituals.
Good Friday (Langfredag) – April 5th
Good Friday is observed as a solemn day of remembrance for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Norway, it is a public holiday marked by church services, processions, and quiet reflection. Many Norwegians also refrain from work and engage in acts of charity and meditation on Good Friday.
Easter Sunday (Første påskedag) – April 7th
Easter Sunday is the most important day in the Christian calendar, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In Norway, it is a time for religious services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Many Norwegians decorate their homes with Easter decorations and exchange gifts with loved ones.
Easter Monday (Andre påskedag) – April 8th
Easter Monday is part of the Easter holiday period and is observed as a public holiday in Norway. It is a day for relaxation and leisure activities, such as outdoor outings, picnics, and visits to friends and family. Some Norwegians also participate in Easter-related events organized by churches and communities.
Labour Day (Første mai) – May 1st
Labour Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is celebrated worldwide to honor the contributions of workers to society. In Norway, it is a public holiday marked by rallies, parades, and speeches organized by trade unions and labor organizations. Workers advocate for labor rights, fair wages, and social justice during these events.
Constitution Day (Grunnlovsdagen) – May 17th
Constitution Day is one of the most significant national holidays in Norway, celebrating the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in 1814. It is a day of patriotic pride, marked by parades, flag-waving, and traditional folk costumes known as bunads. Schools, communities, and organizations across Norway participate in festivities, showcasing Norwegian culture and heritage.
Ascension Day (Kristi himmelfartsdag) – May 30th
Ascension Day commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. In Norway, it is a public holiday observed with church services, processions, and religious gatherings. Many Norwegians also take advantage of the long weekend to travel or engage in outdoor activities.
Whit Monday (Andre pinsedag) – June 10th
Whit Monday, also known as Pentecost Monday, is part of the Pentecost holiday period in the Christian calendar. In Norway, it is a public holiday marked by religious services, family gatherings, and outdoor activities. Many Norwegians view Whit Monday as an opportunity to relax and spend time with loved ones.
Christmas Day (Første juledag) – December 25th
Christmas Day is celebrated by Christians worldwide as the birth of Jesus Christ. In Norway, it is a time for religious services, family gatherings, and festive meals. Many Norwegians decorate their homes with Christmas decorations and lights, and gifts are exchanged among family members and friends.
Boxing Day (Andre juledag) – December 26th
Boxing Day, also known as St. Stephen’s Day, is observed as a public holiday in Norway. It is a time for relaxation and spending time with loved ones after the busy Christmas period. Some people participate in charitable activities or visit friends and relatives during this holiday period.
Conclusion
Norway celebrates a diverse range of public holidays throughout the year, each with its own cultural, religious, and historical significance. These holidays provide opportunities for Norwegians to come together, celebrate their heritage, and enjoy time with family and friends. Whether commemorating religious festivals like Easter and Christmas or celebrating national events like Constitution Day, public holidays in Norway play an important role in fostering community spirit and national identity.
| Public Holiday | Date | Days Off | Groups Celebrating |
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 | All |
| Maundy Thursday | April 4 | 1 | Christians, All |
| Good Friday | April 5 | 1 | Christians, All |
| Easter Sunday | April 7 | 1 | Christians, All |
| Easter Monday | April 8 | 1 | All |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 | Workers, All |
| Constitution Day | May 17 | 1 | All |
| Ascension Day | May 30 | 1 | Christians, All |
| Whit Monday | June 10 | 1 | Christians, All |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 | Christians, All |
| Boxing Day | December 26 | 1 | All |
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