Photo: Jenny ValbergHipp Hipp Hurra for the 17th of May, Norway’s National Day
Last updated: 20/05/2010 //
On May 17th the Norwegian Ambassador to Canada, Else Berit Eikeland invited friends and colleagues to the Embassy’s annual celebration of Norway’s National Day. The sun was shining as kids and grown-ups dressed in bunad (the Norwegian national costume) and gathered to eat hot dogs, listen to speeches and to sing Norwegian songs.
Photo: Jenny Valberg
The Norwegian National Day is a celebration of Norway’s full independence. Its constitution dates back to 17th of May 1814. Historically, the celebrations of the day started rather spontaneously and have developed into a set of traditions. Every year Norwegians fill the streets wearing their national costumes, waving with their flags and cheering “hipp hipp hurra”. The children march in parades before they end the day with games, ice cream and other fun activities.
The celebrations in Ottawa this year were nothing but very typical. The guests enjoyed the beautiful weather together with friends and family. There were treats such as hot dogs, ice cream, waffles and Norwegian cheese. The kids could participate in different games as well as march in a parade through the streets of Rockcliffe park. The Maple Leaf Brass Band from Ottawa played traditional Norwegian songs and added an extra and important touch to the atmosphere of the day.
As the Ambassador reminded people about in her 17th of May speech, the day is not only about eating hot dogs and ice cream but more importantly about freedom. Back in 1814 it was freedom from a long-lasting Union with Denmark. In 1945, another and broader understanding of freedom became apparent as the Nazi occupation ended. It is now 65 years since the Nazis withdrew and Norwegians were yet again allowed to celebrate their National Day. Like the ambassador said, the fact that we can celebrate the 17th of May and all that it represents illustrates the importance of freedom for each and every one.