🎖️ 8 May in Norway: Liberation Day, how to fly the flag and how to behave at ceremonies 🚩
On 8 May, Norway celebrates Liberation and Veterans' Day — a day of remembrance that is both quiet and significant. Short ceremonies are held at memorials throughout the country, and flags fly above squares and town halls. Visitors and expats will be thrilled to learn about the simple rules that make our country so special. From the perfect way to raise and lower the flag, to the people who make it possible, to the special place of the Norwegian flag next to others, there are so many exciting things to learn! And of course, there's always the opportunity to learn how to behave at formal events. This article is a must-read! It provides a brief timeline, answers to frequently asked questions, and a reminder about respectful behaviour at ceremonies. Check out the links below to a comprehensive hub on flag days and a city guide for 8 May with programmes, maps, and tips.
What is Flag Day and why is it celebrated on 8 May?
8 May is National Liberation Day, a national holiday that celebrates the end of the war in 1945. It is also a day to honour people who fought in the war. It is an official flag day: government buildings fly the flag, and wreath-laying ceremonies and short commemorative events are held in cities. For most people, this day is a suggestion rather than something they have to do, but lots of people still fly the flag at home or on their balcony. The day itself is not a public holiday, but programmes on weekdays are usually scheduled for the morning or early afternoon. The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs keeps a list of official flag days.
What time should the flag be raised and lowered on 8 May?
In May, it's spring and summer time. At 8am, you can raise your blinds. At sunset, you can lower them, but no later than 9pm, even if it is light almost all night in the north. Exceptions (10:00–15:00) apply to the winter months in the north and do not apply to 8 May. If you're not sure, follow the rule of "8:00 a.m. up, before 9:00 p.m. down." You can find these times in government regulations and on the UD page "Norges flagg."
Do people have to fly the flag on 8 May?
No, government institutions are the only ones that have to fly flags. Local governments decide their own practices, and private individuals and groups fly flags voluntarily, following general rules about when and where they can fly them. So, putting up flags on your property is a way of showing that you want to take part and respect what is happening, not because you have to. If you live in rented accommodation, check the house rules (e.g. fastenings, noise, safety). The relevant ministry explains what everyone's roles and responsibilities are.
Can you use a "split" flag (splittflagg) on a private house?
No, the so-called 'splittflagg' (split flag) is a state flag, and only government institutions and courts can use it. Anyone can use the normal rectangular flag. If you are raising the flag on a balcony or stand, check the fastenings and wind load. To learn more about the differences and when you can use different types of flags, check out the official UD publication "Norges flagg".
What do you do if you want to fly the Norwegian and Sami flags together on 8 May?
If you have two flags, the Norwegian flag must be the one that is shown first. If there are two flagpoles, the Sami flag is placed to the right of the Norwegian flag (as seen by the person looking at the flags). In a group of flags, the Norwegian flag is always in the front. KDD has published explanations on joint flagging and ranking (including for municipalities). For private homes, this is just a suggestion of what is considered "good taste". For municipalities, it is part of the local rules.
What about foreign flags (e.g. your country's flag)?
On municipal buildings, a foreign flag can be flown next to the Norwegian flag as a sign of international courtesy. However, the foreign flag must not be placed in a more prominent position. There are no special rules for private individuals, but it is correct to put the Norwegian flag first, with other flags behind it. You can find these rules in the government publication UD (in the section on "fremmed lands flagg").
What usually happens in cities on 8 May and where can I find the programme?
Wreath-laying ceremonies, short speeches at memorials and participation by veterans and municipal orchestras are usually part of the events. In Oslo and other big cities, the programmes are published by the city council/municipality and the relevant departments. Events usually happen in the morning or the afternoon and last for 30 to 60 minutes. You can find details of the location, time and possible road closures on the city's website or in ministry press releases. But remember that these details can change from year to year.
What is the etiquette – or, more specifically, the 'rules' – when it comes to behaving at ceremonies?
Here are some simple guidelines to follow:
- Arrive early.
- Turn off or silence your phone.
- Do not block passageways or visibility.
- Stay silent during moments of silence and during the national anthem.
- Do not use drones without permission. When travelling with children, choose seats that are easy to get to and near the exit and toilet. Take photos of veterans and honor guards, but do it without making a fuss. Visit the city's website for information on accessibility and any closures. (See also the city guide for 8 May.)
Can the flag be left up all night? What about during the "white nights"?
No. Even on the polar day, the flag should be lowered by 9pm at the latest. The rules clearly state this: The flag is raised at sunset, but not before then. 21.00 for solnedgang". If you didn't manage to do that, you can remove the flag as soon as you spot it. Don't fly a flag that is wet or worn if the weather is bad (e.g. windy or rainy). You can find the basic rules about time and the condition of the flag on the UD page.
Is the flag flown at half-mast on 8 May? How is this done?
On 8 May, we usually celebrate, not cry. If there is official mourning or a local ceremony where the flag is half-mast, this is how it is done: first, the flag is raised to the top; then, it is lowered to one-third of the length of the pole; at the end of the ceremony, it is raised to the top again and lowered according to the general rules. SNL explains the "half stang" technique in detail (general rule).
I don't have a flagpole. What are the correct alternatives?
You can use wall brackets with a short pole, balcony holders, table flags and ribbon flags in the window. Make sure the flag doesn't touch the ground or sharp edges, and that it doesn't get caught on nearby structures. When you're flying the flag, make sure you follow the usual rules about which flag comes first and what time you should raise and lower it. Before you go in, make sure that the door or shutter isn't touching the pole.
Where can I find the main source of the rules and a complete list of flag days?
The information is based on an article by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called "Norges flagg". This article contains details of the official flag days, the times for raising and lowering the flag, and information about splittflagg and foreign flags. The KDD is responsible for explaining the role of municipalities and joint flagging (including with the Sami flag). For the programme of ceremonies, check your local government's website or look at the announcements made by the relevant authorities.
Liberation Day is a time to celebrate Norway's vibrant history and the joy of freedom. The ceremonies are short and sweet, the city hums with a peaceful rhythm, and the flags flutter proudly, a symbol of our shared heritage. Knowing the simple rules of timing and flag priority is a piece of cake! And the best part is, you can use this knowledge to support local culture in so many fun ways. You could display a flag on your balcony, join in with a wreath-laying ceremony or go for a peaceful stroll through the square. Travelling soon? Then make sure you check out the latest city announcements! You'll be able to find out all the latest on transport station closures and venue accessibility, so you can make the most of your trip! Let's make 8 May the day we celebrate respect, attention to detail and beautiful photos — without breaking any etiquette rules!
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