Ivar Husevåg Døskeland/Flickr
Fourth of July is here — the day when Americans love to fire up the grill and watch fireworks. Americans take their Independence Day seriously, but Norwegians may take the cake with their national holiday, Syttende Mai (May 17th).
Two hundred years ago, on May 17th, 1814, Norway declared itself independent, chose a king, and signed its own constitution into law to avoid being taken over by Sweden after the dissolution of Denmark-Norway in the chaotic aftermath of the Napoleonic wars.
Sweden, however, had lost Finland and Pomerania in the war, and saw Norway as territorial restitution. So a short war forced Norway into union with Sweden just a few months after Norway’s declaration of independence. The union lasted until 1905.
Despite the union, or perhaps because of it, Norwegians kept celebrating May 17th as a protest against the union and as a way of celebrating the Norwegian heritage and keeping the spirit of independence alive. The original constitution from 1814 was kept in place and allowed Norway to retain its national identity throughout the 90 years of union.
Now for the celebration. These photos show what Syttende Mai is all about.
A perfect celebration starts with a good old brunch. Loads of cakes and cookies and a couple of bottles per head is a must.
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Naturally, the cakes need to be in the colors of the Norwegian flag.
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You won’t be accepted in the parade if you don’t wear the traditional Norwegian costume. Here’s what every boy should wear.
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Girls wear costumes like these instead.
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Even the dogs dress for the occasion and participate.
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Grab a flag and join the march. It’s celebration time!
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People in the United States can celebrate, too — this photo is from Wisconsin.
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It’s easy to get carried away in the flag hysteria.
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Chilling in the grass? Everything is accepted on May 17.
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Champagne is a must on Syttende Mai.
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The day isn’t over until you’ve sung the national anthem, “Yes, we love this country.”
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CHEERS TO NORWAY!
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