✝️ Flag Day on 29 July (Olsok): how to fly the flag correctly and without mistakes 🚩

29 July is a day to celebrate – it's Norway's national holiday, Olsok – or St. Olav's Day, as it's also known! It's official: it's flag day! The Norwegian flag is raised on government buildings, and private homes are decked out in their finest banners and decorations. To make sure everything looks absolutely perfect, it's important to know the exact time to raise or lower the flag and the rules for flying it with other flags. This brief guide will tell you all you need to know about who has to fly the flag, how to position the Sami and foreign flags in relation to the Norwegian flag, what to do during the "white nights" and where the main Olsok event in the country takes place.

What time should the flag be raised and lowered on 29 July?

The summer rule is simple: raise at 08:00, lower at sunset, but no later than 21:00, even if it is light until late in the evening. In northern latitudes, where the sun hardly sets, the same time restriction applies — no later than 21:00. These rules are uniform for government institutions and are recommended for anyone who flies the flag privately.

Is Olsok a day off? What will be open?

Olsok is an official flag day, but not a public holiday: most services operate as usual, with only seasonal adjustments or local events possible. If you are planning to visit museums, restaurants or use transport in Trondheim, take into account the festival activities around Nidaros and check local announcements. (For practical information, see our city mini-guides and seasonal summer hub.)

Should private homes fly the flag on 29 July?

There is no formal obligation for private individuals — it is a matter of tradition and goodwill. If you do fly the flag, follow the general temporary rules and basic etiquette: a clean and intact flag, neat rigging, and lowering it on time. On balconies, use a compact flagpole or angled bracket so that the flag can fly freely.

How to fly the Norwegian and Sami flags together on Olsok?

When flying flags together, the Norwegian flag takes precedence. The Sami flag is placed to the right of the Norwegian flag (from the viewer's perspective) or in the next place of honour if there are more than two flagpoles. This rule applies to municipal sites and is widely used as a recommendation for private individuals.

Can a foreign flag be flown next to the Norwegian flag (e.g. in honour of guests)?

Yes, as a gesture of international courtesy — but the foreign flag must not occupy a more honourable place than the Norwegian flag. Use separate flagpoles; do not fly two flags on one pole. On municipal buildings, the decision on joint flagging is made by the local administration within the framework of national recommendations.

Are municipalities required to fly flags on Olsok?

Flagging is mandatory for state institutions, but not for municipalities and counties: they have the right to establish their own practices and additional occasions, guided by general priorities and regulations. Therefore, there may be flags in the square in front of the rådhus, but not at another municipal facility.

What to do during the "white nights" and late sunsets?

Even if the sun sets very late, aim to lower the flag no later than 9 p.m. — this is a strict rule during the summer season. There are no exceptions for the polar day: the idea is that the flag should not remain raised at night, regardless of the light conditions.

Can you leave the flag up overnight if you forget to lower it on time?

According to etiquette, no: the flag should be lowered at the prescribed time. If you forget, take it down as soon as possible and check that the fabric is clean and dry before storing it. For private households, it is a good habit to set a reminder on your phone for 8:45 p.m.

Where is it appropriate to fly the flag on 29 July: at home, on the balcony, at the cottage?

Anywhere where it is safe and the flagpole is securely fastened: a private house, cottage/hut, balcony. It is important that the flag does not touch the ground, trees or the façade, and that the pole is stable in the wind. If space is limited, use a smaller flag with a shorter pole; in strong winds, switch to a pennant (if you have one) instead of a large flag.

What is a "splittflagg" and can I use it?

A "splittflagg" (a flag with a "split" tail) is an option for government agencies/courts and ships flying the national flag. Private individuals and organisations should use the regular Norwegian flag; this way, you will be following both tradition and protocol.

Where does the main Olsok event take place and how is it related to Flag Day?

The historical centre of the holiday is Trondheim and Nidaros Cathedral, around which the Olavsfest festival takes place: services, concerts, a fair and pilgrimage activities. The dates and programme vary from year to year, but usually fall at the end of July, around the 29th ( ). If you are in Trondheim, plan your visit in advance: the centre gets very crowded.

What to do in case of strong wind or rain?

Safety is more important than ritual: in gusty winds, it is better not to raise a large flag. If heavy rain begins, the flag can be lowered earlier — a wet flag is heavier and wears out faster. Store the flag only when dry and clean, neatly folded.

Olsok is a good opportunity to experience the rhythm of Norwegian tradition: flags on buildings, Trondheim's festival lights and a peaceful summer atmosphere. By following simple rules of timing and priority, you will support the country's common visual code — correctly and with respect for protocol. Planning a trip? Take a look at our summer materials and city mini-guides: there you will find routes, points of interest, schedules and ideas for a couple of days around 29 July.

We invite you to share your opinion in the comments! If you have interesting photos, personal experiences or questions on the topic, please leave a comment. We will definitely respond, because we are creating the most popular and useful blog about Norway!