May 17, 2019
Norway Constitution Day 2019
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle celebrates Norway’s Constitution Day, also known as Syttende Mai. Comemmorating the day in 1814 when the Scandinavian country’s constitution was signed, this event is a festive occasion enjoyed by children and adults alike.
The big day starts early with cannon blasts at dawn and buekorps (boys & girls brigades) playing drums in the streets. A common holiday breakfast consists of smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, and champagne. Kids may opt to save room for ice cream and hot dogs, which are consumed in great quantities all across Norway.
The biggest parade, in the capital city of Oslo, draws over 100,000 people, passing the Royal Palace where the royal family greets the merry procession.
The traditional dress code includes colorful folk costumes called bunad, whose colors and patterns contain clues to the wearer’s ancestry. The day would also not be complete without a rousing rendition of the song “Ja, vi elsker dette landet,” which translates to "Yes, we love this country."
Gratulerer med dagen, Norge!
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More