Public holidays in Northern Norway offer a unique blend of cultural, historical, and religious significance. These special days are an opportunity for people to come together, celebrate, and reflect on important events and traditions. From the joyous festivities of Christmas and Easter to the solemn observances of Good Friday and Ascension Day, each holiday has its own special meaning. Additionally, national celebrations like Constitution Day and Labour Day highlight Norway’s rich heritage and commitment to social justice.
This guide provides an overview of the significance of Northern Norway’s public holidays in 2025, written in simple and easy-to-read language.
Public Holidays in Norway In 2025
The following is the list of public holidays in Norway in 2025.
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Maundy Thursday | Apr 17, 2025 | Thursday |
| Good Friday | Apr 18, 2025 | Friday |
| Easter Sunday | Apr 20, 2025 | Sunday |
| Easter Monday | Apr 21, 2025 | Monday |
| Labour day | May 01, 2025 | Thursday |
| Constitution Day | May 17, 2025 | Saturday |
| Ascension Day | May 29, 2025 | Thursday |
| Whit Sunday | Jun 08, 2025 | Sunday |
| Whit Monday | Jun 09, 2025 | Monday |
| Christmas Day | Dec 25, 2025 | Thursday |
| St. Stephen’s Day | Dec 26, 2025 | Friday |
New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the new year. It is a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. In Northern Norway, people often gather with family and friends to celebrate the occasion. Many attend midnight fireworks displays, which light up the dark winter sky, creating a magical atmosphere. Traditional foods like “kransekake,” a ring-shaped cake, are enjoyed. The day is also a time for making resolutions for the coming year, reflecting on the past, and looking forward to the future. It is a public holiday, meaning schools, businesses, and government offices are closed, allowing everyone to take a break and enjoy the festivities.
Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday, known as “Skjærtorsdag” in Norway, is observed on the Thursday before Easter. It commemorates the Last Supper Jesus had with his disciples. In Northern Norway, it is a day of reflection and preparation for the Easter celebrations. Many attend church services to remember the events of the Last Supper, where Jesus washed his disciples’ feet and shared bread and wine. It is a quiet day, often spent with family, and marks the start of the long Easter weekend. Schools and businesses are closed, giving people time to focus on the spiritual significance of the day and prepare for Good Friday and Easter.
Good Friday
Good Friday, or “Langfredag” in Norwegian, is observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday. It is a solemn day that commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. In Northern Norway, many people attend church services that reflect on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus. The day is marked by a somber atmosphere, and it is a public holiday, meaning schools, businesses, and government offices are closed. Families often spend the day together in quiet reflection, and it is common to have simple meals. Good Friday is an important part of the Easter tradition, leading up to the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday.
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday, known as “Påskedag” in Norway, celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is a day of joy and celebration for Christians. In Northern Norway, people attend church services filled with music and hymns, rejoicing in the resurrection. The day is also marked by festive meals, often featuring dishes like lamb and “påskekrim,” a traditional Easter cake. Families gather to enjoy the holiday, and children participate in Easter egg hunts. It is a public holiday, so schools and businesses are closed, allowing everyone to take part in the celebrations. Easter Sunday is the culmination of the Holy Week and the most significant day in the Christian calendar.
Easter Monday
Easter Monday, or “Andre påskedag,” is the day after Easter Sunday. It is a continuation of the Easter celebrations, marked by family gatherings and relaxation. In Northern Norway, it is a public holiday, and many people use the day to unwind after the busy Easter weekend. Some may attend church services, but it is also common to enjoy outdoor activities, especially if the weather is good. The day provides an opportunity to spend time with loved ones, enjoy the spring season, and reflect on the significance of Easter. Schools, businesses, and government offices are closed, giving everyone a chance to rest and recharge before the week begins.
Labour Day
Labour Day, or “Arbeidernes dag,” is celebrated on May 1st. It is a day to honor workers and their contributions to society. In Northern Norway, it is a public holiday, and many people participate in parades and gatherings organized by labor unions and political groups. The day is marked by speeches, demonstrations, and various events promoting workers’ rights and social justice. It is a time to reflect on the progress made in improving working conditions and to advocate for continued advancements. Schools and businesses are closed, allowing everyone to join in the celebrations and show solidarity with workers around the world.
Constitution Day
Constitution Day, known as “Syttende mai,” is celebrated on May 17th. It marks the signing of the Norwegian Constitution in 1814, declaring Norway an independent nation. In Northern Norway, it is a day of national pride and joy. The celebrations include parades, where people dress in traditional costumes called “bunad,” and wave the Norwegian flag. Schools, bands, and various organizations participate in the parades, creating a festive atmosphere. Speeches, music, and traditional foods like “rømmegrøt” (sour cream porridge) are enjoyed. It is a public holiday, and schools, businesses, and government offices are closed, allowing everyone to take part in the festivities and celebrate Norway’s independence and heritage.
Ascension Day
Ascension Day, or “Kristi Himmelfartsdag,” is observed on the 40th day after Easter Sunday. It commemorates Jesus Christ’s ascension into heaven. In Northern Norway, it is a public holiday, and many people attend church services to mark the event. The day is a time for reflection on the significance of Jesus’ ascension and its place in Christian belief. It is also an opportunity to spend time with family and enjoy the spring weather. Schools, businesses, and government offices are closed, giving everyone a chance to rest and participate in religious observances. Ascension Day is an important part of the Easter season, leading up to Pentecost.
Whit Sunday
Whit Sunday, or “Pinsedag,” is celebrated on the seventh Sunday after Easter. It marks the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, an event also known as Pentecost. In Northern Norway, it is a day of celebration and religious observance. Many people attend church services that focus on the significance of the Holy Spirit and its role in the Christian faith. It is a public holiday, so schools, businesses, and government offices are closed. Families often gather for festive meals and enjoy outdoor activities. Whit Sunday is an important day in the Christian calendar, symbolizing the birth of the Christian Church and the spread of the gospel.
Whit Monday
Whit Monday, or “Andre pinsedag,” is the day after Whit Sunday. It continues the celebration of Pentecost and the descent of the Holy Spirit. In Northern Norway, it is a public holiday, and many people use the day to relax and spend time with family and friends. Church services are held, and the day is marked by a festive atmosphere. Schools, businesses, and government offices are closed, allowing everyone to enjoy the holiday. Whit Monday provides an opportunity to reflect on the significance of Pentecost and its impact on the Christian faith. It is a day of rest and celebration, rounding off the Easter season.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day, or “Juledag,” is celebrated on December 25th and marks the birth of Jesus Christ. In Northern Norway, it is a day of joy and celebration. Families gather to exchange gifts, enjoy festive meals, and attend church services. Traditional foods like “ribbe” (pork ribs) and “julekake” (Christmas cake) are enjoyed. The day is also marked by the singing of carols and the lighting of candles. It is a public holiday, so schools, businesses, and government offices are closed, allowing everyone to take part in the celebrations. Christmas Day is a special time for families to come together and celebrate the joy and peace of the holiday season.
St. Stephen’s Day
St. Stephen’s Day, or “Andre juledag,” is celebrated on December 26th. It honors St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr. In Northern Norway, it is a public holiday, and the day is often spent with family and friends. Many people continue their Christmas celebrations, enjoying leftover festive foods and participating in outdoor activities like skiing or ice skating. It is also a day for visiting friends and relatives, spreading the joy of the holiday season. Schools, businesses, and government offices are closed, giving everyone a chance to relax and enjoy the extended Christmas festivities. St. Stephen’s Day is a time of reflection and continued celebration, rounding off the Christmas holiday.