Norway Public & National Holidays (2026)

Norway is a Nordic country located in Northern Europe, known for its breathtaking mountains, fjords and northern lights. The country’s origin dates back to 872 CE, with values strongly skewing towards egalitarian ideals. Today, Norway is considered a progressive state with a strong Norwegian culture, receptive legislations and policies for human rights, and Nobel Prize winning literature.

Public holidays in Norway consist of both religious and national holidays which are celebrated across the country and are determined by the Norwegian Government.

When are public holidays in Norway?

What are the public holidays in Norway?

New Year’s Day
This holiday is commemorated on January 1st to mark the beginning of a new year according to the Gregorian calendar.

Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday, also referred to as Holy Thursday or Good Thursday, is observed the day before Good Friday in celebration of the Holy Communion, Last Supper, Lord’s Supper, or the Eucharist.

Good Friday
This holiday is celebrated on the Friday before Easter in memory of the crucifixion of Jesus.

Easter Monday
Easter Monday is observed after Easter Sunday in celebration of the resurrection of Jesus.

Labor Day
Labor Day, also called International Workers’ Day or May Day, is observed on May 1st in celebration of the accomplishments of the labor movement.

Constitution Day
The Norwegian Constitution Day, locally referred to as Syttende Mai, is observed on May 17th in commemoration of the adoption of the constitution in 1814. On this day, Norwegians celebrate the law which proclaimed Norway as an independent kingdom from Sweden following the Napoleonic wars. However, Norway achieved full independence on June 7th, 1905.

Ascension Day
Ascension Day, also referred to as Ascension Thursday, the Feast of Ascension, the Ascension of Jesus or Holy Thursday is commemorated on the 40th day after Easter to mark the ascent of Jesus into heaven, which took place 39 days after His resurrection.

Whit Monday
This holiday is also known as Pentecost Monday. It is observed after Pentecost in celebration of the coming of the Holy Spirit in the form of flames on Jesus’ Apostles, giving them the power to preach in several languages. This holiday also marks the end of the Easter period.

Christmas Day
Christmas Day is celebrated on December 25th to mark the birth of Jesus, which according to the Bible occurred on the same date in 1 BC according to the Gregorian calendar.

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