Norwegians all over the country celebrate their independence day on May 17th. In large cities and small towns, everyone dresses in their finest suits, dresses and national costumes (called Bunad) and comes to the center of town for not one, but three parades. First, is the Children's Parade, where each school marches together and separates by classes; from first grade on up. Marching bands from all the schools and civic groups are interspersed. Second, is the Adult Parade (about 2 hours after the first one ends). This includes the bands again, but all the clubs and charities march. There are no floats, but they walk along with banners announcing their groups; like the mountain climbing club, the rugby club, the cross country skiing club, the curling club . . . Finally, the graduating high school students have the last parade; celebrating their completion of exams after partying all night. Everyone has a Norwegian flag during the parade, and on the sidelines. It is a great tradition of nationalism and patriotism. Enjoy the national costumes that also include men.
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| Trondheim Elders Garlick, Cribbs, Rogers and Snapp |
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| The Children's Parade |
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| Even the Star Wars Club marched |
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| I made the "Bløt Kake" or "Soft Cake" with whipping cream and strawberries in 3 layers. Solo is the preferred Norwegian soda and Josie displayed her Bunad. These are hand sewn, with embroidery and real silver jewelry. They can cost from $4,000-$12,000. |
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