Sami Day (6 February) in Norway: where to celebrate, what to try and how to flag 🎶

On 6 February, Norway celebrates Samefolkets dag — Sami Day! Get ready for an unforgettable experience, because this isn't just any ordinary carnival – it's a vibrant cultural celebration of the North! Expect everything from grand official ceremonies to thrilling concerts with yoiking, not to mention spectacular duodji craft fairs and fun-filled family activities. Travellers are in for a treat! This is your chance to see northern cities in a whole new light. You'll get to hear local stories, try bidos and gáhkku, buy jewellery with history, and learn how to participate respectfully. This article is your ultimate guide to finding the programme in Tromsø, Karasjok, Kautokeino and Alta. You'll discover the fascinating flag etiquette on 6 February, the exciting attractions that are open in the city, how to prepare for the weather, the best spots for taking photos and how to spot authentic crafts.

Hint: say "Lihkku beivviin!" — "Happy holidays!" — and support duodji artisans by buying from the creators.

Quick navigators for northern cities

Tromsø — Programme: city centre/waterfront, museums, flag-raising ceremonies. Food/duodji: market fairs, cafés with winter menus. Logistics: windy coast, bus network + airport transfer; chance to see the Northern Lights.
Karasjok (Kárášjohka) — Programme: Sametinget (Sami parliament), museums, family activities. Food/duodji: craft stalls, warm soups. Logistics: frost, short daylight hours.
Kautokeino (Guovdageaidnu) — Programme: concerts/yoik, local cultural centres. Food/duodji: fairs, leather/textile products. Logistics: rural lifestyle, roads with winter conditions.
Alta — Programme: urban venues, museums. Food/duodji: city markets. Logistics: convenient transport, evening — window under the aurora (when the sky is clear).

Flag etiquette 6 February

● Status: official flag day (not automatically a day off).

● Time: in winter, raised at 09:00, lowered at sunset; in the north (Nordland/Troms/Finnmark) in winter, the guideline is 10:00–15:00.

● Priority: the Norwegian flag is primary. The Sami flag is next to it, but not higher; a separate pole is preferable.

● Placement: if there are two poles, the Sami flag is placed to the right of the Norwegian flag (from the viewer's perspective).

● Private homes: no obligation; recommendations to follow general raising/lowering times and placement rules.

What is Samefolkets dag and why is it important for travellers?

Samefolkets dag is the Sámi national day. On this day, people remember their history, celebrate the culture of Sápmi, and support their language, music, and crafts. This is a rare chance for visitors to see what life is like in northern cities. You can learn about the community, try local food, hear traditional music and buy handicrafts directly from the people who make them. The holiday is all about enjoying quality time with your family and learning new things. It's the perfect day to take it easy and feel like you're "in the right place at the right time."

Where can I find the programme in Tromsø? Is there a "central point" where I can find out more?

In Tromsø, events usually take place in the centre and on the waterfront. These include flag raising, family areas, small stages at cultural venues and museums with themed activities. The opening times and addresses of museums and cultural centres change every year, so it's best to check the websites of the places you're interested in visiting before you go. It's easy to get around the city by bus, but in winter, be prepared for wind and slippery conditions. It's better to plan short trips between places.

Karasjok: what are the main attractions and how should you plan your visit?

Karasjok is the "political heart" of Sápmi. It is home to Sametinget (the Sámi Parliament) and museums with permanent exhibitions. On the day of the holiday, there will be ceremonies, themed meetings and activities for families. Make sure you have warm clothes, reflectors, and allow extra time for the journey: In February, there is often frost and snow. If you're travelling with kids, pick places with indoor areas where you can warm up. Libraries, cultural centres and museums are great for a "winter break".

Kautokeino/Guovdageaidnu: How is the atmosphere different, and what should you focus on?

Kautokeino is famous for its yoik (a traditional singing style), crafts and chamber concerts. Talking to the duodji masters here is really helpful. Ask them about what the patterns, materials and history of the family workshop mean. Winter logistics: watch out for wind and snowdrifts, and check the road conditions and listen to local announcements. If you are planning an evening programme, think in advance about how you will get back and where you can stop and warm up — maybe a café or cultural centre near the venue.

What can I see and will I be able to see the Northern Lights?

Alta offers city venues, museum programmes and activities for families — a good choice for those who want a busy but comfortable day. If the weather is clear, you can go out in the evening to look for the Northern Lights. Make sure you are safe on the roads and wear warm clothes. When travelling with children, it is better to choose an organised trip or official viewing points. These are safer and have parking and clear markings.

What are the rules for flying the flag on 6 February? Who has to fly the flag?

Today is an official flag day, which means government buildings must fly the flag. Local governments often join in, but follow their own rules. You don't have to fly the flag, but you can if you want to. The flag is raised at 9am in the north in winter and between 10am and 3pm in the south. It is lowered at sunset. If the Sami flag is raised next to the Norwegian flag, place it on a separate pole to the right of the Norwegian flag (as seen by the person looking on).

Can the Sámi flag be raised on a house? Where should it be placed compared to the Norwegian flag?

Yes, this is a respectful gesture. The Norwegian flag is in the place of honour, with the Sami flag next to it, but not higher. It would be best to have two separate flagpoles. If you only have one pole, choose one flag; they are not raised "together on one pole". When you put the flag on the balcony, make sure it's tied up properly and that it doesn't touch the ground or snow. Also, make sure it's not wet and that it doesn't block your neighbours' way.

What are the rules for how to behave at ceremonies and concerts?

The rule is simple: show respect and be discreet. Keep quiet during official moments, make way for people, and stay to the side of children and elderly people. When taking close-up photos of people, ask if you can – this is especially important for children and people taking part in ritual scenes. Drones can only be used if the community says it's OK, and away from crowds. If the people organising the event ask you not to take photos, turn off your camera and enjoy the moment.

What can you try on Sámi Day and where can you find it?

Try bidos (hearty soup/stew), gáhkku (flatbread), smoked/dried reindeer and northern fish, desserts and northern-style coffee. The best places to try this are fairs, pop-ups and cafés near cultural venues, where they make simple, honest versions of the dishes. Check the ingredients — northern cuisine may contain allergens. If you're cooking at home, get the basics (potatoes, carrots, meat, onions) and cook "slowly and gently" — winter is the perfect time for stew.

How can you tell if a Djuandi is real and how can you choose the right one?

Genuine duodji is made by a skilled artisan who has a name or a workshop. Often, there are cards that say where it came from and what materials were used. Look at how neat the seams are, how balanced the ornaments are, and what the symbols mean. Don't be shy about asking who the pattern's author is, where it came from, and how to care for it. Avoid "generic souvenirs without a signature" and fakes made from cheap materials. Buying from a master craftsman is a way to support culture, not just something to put in your suitcase.

What should you do to prepare for the weather and light in early February?

There is not much daylight, and wind and frost are often present. Dress in layers to keep warm and dry. This means wearing thermal underwear, a warm jumper, a windproof and waterproof jacket, a hat and gloves. Wear shoes with treads; you might need the spikes to grip on ice. Bring a reflector, a headlamp for the evening walk, and a power bank. Plan short trips between indoor locations and allow extra time for transport.

Can I bring children or a pushchair? What about accessibility?

Yes. Look for venues with indoor areas, ramps/lifts and nearby toilets. Programmes often include family activities, master classes and quiet rooms. When you're choosing a route for your pushchair, go for flat ones with no steep slopes or windy bridges. Take regular breaks to warm up, and remember to bring spare mittens and a thermos. If your child is sensitive to noise, bring earplugs and check with the organisers where you can stand away from the speakers.

You might be able to see the Northern Lights at the moment. What should you think about before you go?

Yes, February is a good month. The most important thing is that it is clear and dark. Leave the city behind, stay away from roads, and don't walk on ice unless you are sure it is safe. Make sure you have warm clothes, a hot drink, a torch that has a "red" mode (this will not dazzle you) and your devices are charged. When travelling with children, it's best to choose an organised trip or official viewing points because there is parking and well-known paths.

Sami Day is about respect and closeness: to people, the land, and the changing seasons. There is no hustle and bustle here — there are warm lights, the sounds of people singing, the hands of people making things, and children's hands holding mugs of hot tea. If you want to see Norway with your heart, come to the North in early February: listen, try, ask questions and support the culture with your actions — with your attention and by buying crafts made by local people.

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