17th of May in Bergen 2026
Norway's Constitution Day in Bergen: parades, buekorps brigades, concerts and celebrations. Complete visitor guide.
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Bergen celebrates Norway's Constitution Day (17th of May) with children's parades, buekorps marching brigades unique to Bergen, concerts at Torgallmenningen and Festplassen, and citywide celebrations. Over 30 active buekorps march from early morning. Most events are free.
The 17th of May (syttende mai) is Norway's Constitution Day — the country's biggest national celebration, equivalent to Independence Day. Bergen's celebration is uniquely spectacular thanks to the buekorps tradition: children's marching brigades with drums and banners that exist only in Bergen, dating back to the 1800s.
The day starts early with buekorps marching from around 07:00, followed by the children's parade (barnetog) from Festplassen at 10:00. Norwegians dress in bunads (traditional folk costumes), eat ice cream and hot dogs, and gather at Torgallmenningen for speeches and music. The atmosphere is joyful and welcoming to visitors.
Gåri collects all 17th of May events from over 50 local sources — concerts, family activities and cultural events. Most celebrations are free and open to everyone. This page is updated daily as the programme approaches.
What happens on 17th of May in Bergen?
Bergen celebrates with children's parades (barnetog), buekorps marching brigades, concerts at Torgallmenningen and family activities. Most events are free and open to visitors.
What is buekorps?
Buekorps are children's marching brigades with drums, banners and uniforms — a tradition unique to Bergen since the 1800s. Around 30 active brigades march through the city from early morning.
What time does the 17th of May parade start?
The children's parade (barnetog) starts at Festplassen around 10:00. Buekorps brigades march from around 07:00. Celebrations continue until evening with concerts and festivities.
What is bunad?
Bunad is the traditional Norwegian folk costume worn on national holidays. Each region has its own design. On 17th of May, most Norwegians dress in bunad or formal attire.
Is 17th of May worth visiting Bergen for?
Absolutely. Bergen's 17th of May celebration is considered one of Norway's best, with the unique buekorps tradition, harbour setting at Bryggen, and a festive atmosphere throughout the compact city centre.