May 17, 2018
Norway National Day 2018
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Norway’s National Day was first established in 1814 to recognize the signing of the Constitution of Norway in Eidsvoll, which made Norway an independent kingdom under Swedish rule. By the 1860s, the day had transformed from a patriotic tribute to a celebration for children, with the first barnetog (children’s parade) held in Christiania (Oslo) in 1870. Today, children across the country march with smiles and pride, the focus of an enormous celebration that brings Norwegians of all ages onto the streets.
The Norwegian flag (pictured in today’s Doodle) decorates the tops and sides of buildings, while parade-goers wear red, white and blue ribbons or bunad (traditional folk garments). Music fills the air, including the songs “Norway in Red, White and Blue” and “Seventeenth of May I’m So Glad.”
God syttende mai!
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