Public Holidays in Norway for 2026

New Year’s Day Introduction

New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year and is a global occasion filled with joy and reflection. This holiday has ancient roots, with the earliest known celebrations dating back over 4,000 years to Babylon, where the arrival of spring was welcomed with festivities. Different cultures have unique traditions; for instance, in Spain, it’s customary to eat twelve grapes at midnight for good luck. In Scotland, “Hogmanay” features unique customs, including the first-footing ritual, where the first visitor of the new year brings gifts to ensure prosperity. Fireworks, parties, and resolutions are common worldwide, symbolizing hope for a fresh start. As people gather to celebrate, New Year’s Day serves as a time for renewal, allowing individuals to set goals and aspirations for the year ahead.

Princess Ingrid Alexandra’s Day Introduction

Princess Ingrid Alexandra’s Day is a significant occasion celebrated in Norway on January 21st, marking the birthday of Princess Ingrid Alexandra, the daughter of Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit. Born in 2004, she is second in line to the Norwegian throne, making her a pivotal figure in the nation’s royal lineage. This day not only honors her birth but also celebrates the values of youth, leadership, and the monarchy’s connection to the Norwegian people. Interesting facts about the princess include her passion for outdoor activities and sports, reflecting Norway’s strong ties to nature. With her education at the prestigious Oslo International School, Ingrid Alexandra embodies the modern royal, blending tradition with contemporary relevance. As she grows, the celebrations surrounding her birthday are expected to evolve, encompassing both royal duties and personal achievements, offering a glimpse into the future of the Norwegian monarchy.

Saami National Day Introduction

Saami National Day, celebrated on February 6th each year, marks a significant occasion for the Saami people, an Indigenous group inhabiting the northern regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. This day commemorates the first Saami congress held in 1917 in Trondheim, Norway, which sought to unify and advocate for Saami rights and culture. The celebration serves not only as a reminder of the Saami’s rich heritage—marked by unique languages, traditional reindeer herding, and vibrant handicrafts—but also emphasizes the ongoing struggles for cultural preservation and political representation. Festivities often include traditional music, dance, and culinary delights, showcasing the Saami’s deep connection to their land. Saami National Day is a powerful platform for raising awareness about Indigenous issues and promoting solidarity among Indigenous peoples worldwide.

Mothers’ Day Introduction

Mother’s Day is a heartfelt celebration dedicated to honoring mothers, maternal figures, and the influence of motherhood on society. Observed on various dates worldwide, the most common date in many countries, including the United States, falls on the second Sunday in May. The modern iteration of Mother’s Day was established in the early 20th century, largely credited to Anna Jarvis, who sought to create a day of recognition following her mother’s death. Interestingly, in ancient cultures, similar celebrations existed, such as the Greek spring festival honoring Rhea, the mother of gods, and the Roman festival of Hilaria. Today, traditions range from giving flowers and cards to enjoying family gatherings, reflecting the diverse ways people express love and gratitude to their mothers. In recent years, the holiday has also expanded to celebrate all maternal figures, including grandmothers and stepmothers, emphasizing the broader impact of nurturing and love in various forms.

Valentine’s Day Introduction

Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14th, is a day dedicated to love and affection between intimate partners. Its origins trace back to ancient Rome, where the feast of St. Valentine was observed in honor of a martyr who defied Emperor Claudius II by performing secret weddings for soldiers. Today, it has evolved into a globally recognized occasion, marked by the exchange of heartfelt cards, flowers, and chocolates. Interestingly, more than 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged annually, making it the second-largest card-sending holiday after Christmas. The day has also inspired countless romantic gestures, from candlelit dinners to elaborate proposals. As society continues to evolve, so too does the celebration, with many using the day to express love for friends, family, and even pets, extending the spirit of love beyond romantic relationships.