Public holidays are virtually the same throughout the Nordic region. However, be aware that, unlike in other countries, Maundy Thursday, Easter Monday, and Whit Monday are public holidays in Norway.
Public holidays in Norway
Employeesat most workplaces are generally free on public holidays.
- 1 January: New Year’s Day
- March-April: Easter: Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday
- April-June: Ascension Day
- May-June: Pentecost (Whitsun): Pentecost Sunday (Whit Sunday) and Whit Monday
- 25 December:Christmas Day
- 26 December: Boxing Day
Other work-free days in Norway
You may be entitled to be free from work on some days that are not public holidays. It depends on whether this is stated in your contractor in the agreementthat applies in your workplace. These days are:
- 1 May: International Labour Day
- 17 May: Norwegian National Day/Constitution Day
- 24 December: Christmas Eve
- 31 December: New Year’s Eve
According to the agreement that applies in the workplace, many employees work just half a day on the Wednesday before Maundy Thursday and on 23 December.
Other commemorative days in Norway
- February-March: Carnival Day (the day before Lent begins)
- 6 February: Sami National Day
- 21 February: King Harald’s Birthday
- 23 March: Nordic Day
- 8 May: Independence Day
- 22 July: Official Day of Mourning after the terror attack in Norway in 2011
