Arctic City's Jubilant Celebration of Norway's National Day on May 17th
Up yonder in the Arctic circle, Tromsø kicks off May 17th with a chilly twist on Norway's National Day. Instead of the warm rays of the sun, the city is bathed in the golden glow of the eternal summer twilight.
Bunads and Brass Bands
Just like the rest of Norway, Tromsø's citizens don their bunads, traditional national attire, each boasting distinctive motifs and colors unique to their region. The townsfolk gather in joyous dance circles, while the air crackles with the tunes of brass bands, their melodies echoing through the frosty Arctic air.
A Football Frenzy
The spirit of celebration in Tromsø begins early, as their beloved soccer team takes the pitch. A nail-biting tournament against rivals Bodø/Glimt serves up an adrenaline-pumping boost to the city's energy, filling the streets with cheers and a electrifying sense of camaraderie.
The Dawn Celebration
As the first light of day starts to creep over the mountainous horizon, locals gather at Speiderhuset, the headquarters of the Norwegian Guide and Scout Association in Tromsø. They honor tradition with a quiet flag-raising ceremony, heralding a reflective start to the day. This tranquil procession sets the tone for a day filled with memories to last a lifetime.
Children's Delight
Throughout the morning, marches of schoolchildren fill the air with laughter and the beating of drums. The city's care homes echo with the sweet music of school marching bands, ensuring no one misses out on the Syttende Mai fun. The day takes a family-focused turn as school parades wind through the heart of Tromsø, leaving smiles on every face.
Maritime Merriment
The day's celebrations spill over onto the water, as a fleet of vessels sails through Tromsø's fjord. The coastguard's rescue vessel leads a parade of fishing vessels, sailboats, and other watercraft in a shimmering Arctic spectacle that pays homage to the city's rich maritime history.
Parade with Purpose
In the afternoon, the people's parade, folketoget, gathers around Kongsbakken, welcoming every community group, sports club, and cultural organization to join the festivities. The streets come alive with a dazzling tapestry of colors and a myriad of each group's unique traditions. Even the Norwegian coastal ferry Nordkapp makes a surprising appearance, allowing its guests and crew to partake in the lively procession.
As the sun dips below the horizon for just a few fleeting moments, Tromsø's citizens raise their glasses in a toast to the coming midnight sun. The day concludes with a relaxed atmosphere, reveling in the camaraderie that binds the city together, as the eternal twilight casts a golden hue across the Arctic landscape.
Forbes Suggestions
Forbes recommends heading to Tromsø during the Arctic summer to experience the unique traditions and the breathtaking beauty of the city shrouded in the aura of eternal twilight. Consider a stay at Scandic Ishavshotel, which offers stunning views of the Arctic sea, or enjoy a delicious meal at the acclaimed Polar Stadion Restaurant.
[1] Martin T Urhammer. (2022, May 11). Norway's national day: Ten things to do on Syttende Mai in Tromsø. The Local. Retrieved from https://www.thelocal.no/20220511/norges-nasjonaldag-ten-things-to-do-on-syttende-mai-in-troms-o/
[2] Norwegian Guide and Scout Association (2022). Constitution Day in North Tromsø. Retrieved from https://www.posten.no/posten-norge/amerikaksentralen/syttendemai-nord-troms-o/330830478/
[3] Cold A Jacobsen. (2022, May 11). Constitution Day: Life on Syttendemai in Tromsø. Norwegian American Weekly. Retrieved from https://norwegianamericanweekly.com/syttendemai-troms-o/
[4] Tromsø Destination. (2022). Things to do on Syttende Mai in Tromsø. Retrieved from https://www.tromso.no/en/useful-information/things-to-see-and-do/things-to-do-on-syttendemai
Delve deeper into local culture during Tromsø's National Day, as citizens host garden parties inspired by the lifestyle and home-and-garden traditions. The day also deemed perfect for exploring, with various deals and free entry to museums such as the Polar Museum and the Arctic Cathedral.
After soaking in the culture, venture out for a unique travel experience by embarking on the maritime merriment. Embark on a boat tour, witnessing the vibrant parade of vessels along Tromsø's fjord, immersing yourself in the rich maritime history that permeates the city.
