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Constitution Day celebrations in Kirkenes

It has become increasingly popular to wear traditional Norwegian costumes in the May 17. celebrations.

The town of Kirkenes on the border to Russia was blessed with unusual nice weather on this year’s National Day. Have a look at how the town’s people celebrated “syttende mai”.

Location

May 17 is the National Day of Norway, celebrating that the Constitution of Norway was signed at Eidsvoll on May 17 in the year 1814.

In Kirkenes the celebrations start with a children’s parade for all school children and local kindergartens. The school’s own marching band and twirlers lead the parade around in the town with stops at homes of senior citizens and a war memorial. 

Later in the day hundreds of people gather for the public parade, where sport clubs, choirs and organizations take part.