Culture and Customs of Norway

Arts, Crafts, and Architecture

Arts

Crafts

Architecture

Museums

Customs and Traditions

Local Traditions

Etiquette

Dress and Behavior

Sensitive or Taboo Topics

Languages

Norwegian, existing in two forms—bokmål and nynorsk—is the country’s official language. Sami is also an official administrative language in six northern municipalities, and Kven in another. When it comes to foreign languages, Norwegians generally speak English well, and many also practice German. French, however, is very uncommon.

Glossary

A few useful local words and expressions to know while traveling:

Festivals and Celebrations

Public Holidays

January: New Year’s Day

March–April: Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Monday

May: May Day, Ascension Day

May 17: Constitution Day

May–June: Pentecost

December 25–26: Christmas Holidays