The beginning of the school’s parade overlooking downtown Tromsø on Norway’s National Day.
David Nikel
Across Norway, May 17 is a day of national pride. Parades of schoolchildren march through downtown districts, brass bands fill the air with music, and locals don ornate national dress to celebrate the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in 1814.
It’s a joyful, flag-waving affair that brings the country together, rain or shine. But how are these traditions celebrated more than 1,000 miles north of the capital city?
In Tromsø, where snow still lingers on the mountains and the sun barely dips below the horizon, Norway’s national day takes on a distinctive Arctic character.
A Soccer Celebration
This year, Tromsø’s festive spirit got an early boost when the city’s soccer team pulled off a dramatic upset against northern rivals and reigning Norwegian champions Bodø/Glimt.
Tromsø fans celebrate their side’s late goal in the derby match against Bodø/Glimt.
David Nikel
A late goal sealed the unexpected 2-1 victory, sending thousands of local fans into celebration. The electric mood carried over into the next morning, adding an extra layer of joy to the national festivities.
An Early Start On May 17
Daylight had already been blazing across Tromsø’s hills for hours when the day’s events began. At 7am, locals made their way to Speiderhuset, the headquarters of the Norwegian Guide and Scout Association in Tromsø.
This modest building marks the traditional starting point of the day’s celebrations. The morning began with a quiet flag-raising ceremony, setting a reflective tone.
The first parade of the Norwegian Constitution Day celebrations in Tromsø begins at 7am.
David Nikel
This was followed by a procession through the city, led by scouts, musicians, and community leaders.
Along the route, the group paused for hymns and speeches at key statues and memorials. Unlike the lively parades that came later, this early gathering is a moment of remembrance that offered a meaningful start to the day.
May 17 Is A Day For Children
Throughout the morning, music filled the city. School marching bands visited care homes across Tromsø, bringing Constitution Day to residents who may not have been able to attend other public events.
Crowds watching the May 17 children’s parade in Tromso, Norway.
David Nikel
From Kongsbakken high school, the skoletog (school parade) wound through the heart of the city. Schoolchildren marched proudly with banners and flags. For many families, this parade is the highlight of the day.
A May 17 Maritime Celebration
Just as the parade on land reached full stride, Tromsø’s fjord came to life. At noon, a gun salute echoed from the harbor’s northern jetty.
Just a few of the vessels taking part in the boat convoy in Tromso, Norway.
David Nikel
Led by the coastguard’s rescue vessel, a convoy of fishing vessels, sailboats and other vessels made their way into the city’s inner harbor. This maritime parade puts an Arctic twist on national tradition and a vivid reminder of the city’s deep connection to the sea.
An Afternoon Of Fun And Games
Later in the afternoon, Tromsø’s people’s parade (folketoget) gathered near Kongsbakken once again.
Norway’s emergency services joined in the people’s parade in Tromsø on Norwegian Constitution Day.
David Nikel
This procession had an open-door spirit with every organisation, sports club, cultural group and local choir welcome to join.
It was the day’s most popular parade with every vantage point taken along its route.
Every vantage point, inside and out, is taken ahead of the May 17 People’s Parade in Tromsø.
David Nikel
Every afternoon of the year, the Norwegian coastal ferry arrives in Tromsø for a four-hour stop on its way northeast towards Kirkenes. This year, Hurtigruten’s MS Nordkapp arrived in time for a group of guests and crew to join the city’s celebrations.
They blended into the crowd of the people’s parade, waving flags and marching alongside locals. For many on board, who had no idea they’d be taking part in Norway’s biggest day, it will prove a lifelong memory from their trip.
Hurtigruten’s coastal ferry MS Nordkapp leaves Tromsø after its guests and crew joined in Norway’s National Day celebrations.
David Nikel
As the notes of the final parade echoed through the city, the formal program gave way to something more relaxed.
In Tromsø, like elsewhere in Norway, the evening of May 17 is less about ceremony and more about enjoying the long spring daylight in good company. Some headed to restaurants for a celebratory meal, while others boarded boats for scenic trips into the fjord.
Many retreated to private gatherings with friends and family, continuing May 17 with cake, conversation and perhaps a toast to the midnight sun, which arrives in Tromsø the following day.
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