Constitution Day 2025
Date: May 17, 2025 (Saturday)
Country: Svalbard & Jan Mayen Public Holidays
Description
Constitution Day in Svalbard and Jan Mayen is the local name for Norways national day. It honors the Norwegian Constitution written in 1814. The day celebrates the ideas of freedom, democracy, and equal rights for everyone.
Constitution Day takes place on May 17 each year. This date marks when Norway declared its own constitution after leaving Danish rule. It is a fixed annual holiday across all areas under Norwegian authority.
For Svalbard and Jan Mayen the day is especially meaningful. These places are remote and small, so the holiday helps people remember their connection to Norway and its laws. It also highlights the importance of national unity and legal protection in these territories.
Overall the holiday is a time to reflect on Norways history and values. It reminds people that civil rights, democratic rules, and peaceful governance matter everywhere, even in distant parts of the country.
Traditions
On Svalbard people gather in small towns like Longyearbyen for parades led by children carrying flags. Brass bands play lively tunes while locals wear colorful bunads or warm outdoor clothes for the cold weather.
Food is simple and festive. Families and friends share cakes, waffles, hot dogs, and coffee. Bakeries make sweet breads and decorated cakes with red white and blue icing for the celebration.
Community rituals include flag raising, short speeches, and wreath laying at memorials for miners and explorers. Schools put on performances and children sing songs.
On Jan Mayen the tiny community celebrates quietly with a shared meal, music, flag rituals, and toasts among station staff and researchers.
Travel Tips
Many shops, museums and government offices may be closed and some restaurants run reduced hours. Flights and ferries can be busier than usual. Book travel and tours early, check local notices, and expect limited public transport on the islands.
Enjoy the day by joining organized events or guided tours. Follow safety rules, stay on marked paths, keep distance from wildlife, wear warm layers, and carry ID and emergency contact. Tell your tour operator your plans and respect local signs for a safe visit.