Flags, ice cream, brass band music and "Ja, vi elsker." May 17th is the finest day of the year - but with a newborn or an energetic toddler, it requires a bit of extra planning. With the right preparation, Norway's National Day becomes a joyful experience for the whole family.
Here you'll find practical tips for celebrating May 17th with children of all ages, from newborn to three years old.
Different ages, different needs
How old your child is determines what's realistic to accomplish on National Day.
Baby under 6 months: Keep it short and calm. A small outing to see the flags is enough. The baby doesn't care about ice cream and brass bands, but will sense if you're stressed. Prioritize calm, feeding and sleep.
Baby 6-12 months: Your child is more awake and curious now. A trip to the children's parade in a stroller or baby carrier works fine. Plan for the baby to need a nap in the middle of the day.
1-2 years: Toddlers at this age love flags, music and ice cream. They can usually handle a shorter parade, but get tired quickly. Plan breaks and have food available.
2-3 years: Now your child can walk in the parade themselves, but expect frequent stops. Three-year-olds often have lots of energy at first, but can suddenly fall apart. Bring a stroller as backup.
Talk about May 17th in advance with children over 2 years. Show pictures, sing songs and explain what's going to happen. It makes the transition to the big day easier.
The children's parade - how to make it great for everyone
The children's parade is the heart of the May 17th celebration for families with children. Here are some tips for a good experience.
With a stroller:
- Check the route in advance and pick a spot where you can easily get in and out
- Pack the stroller with everything you need: diapers, change of clothes, food, extra clothes and water