❄️Sami Day and northern cities: where to celebrate, how to support, and what not to miss
On 6 February, Norway celebrates Samefolkets dag — Sami Day! Get ready for a thrilling celebration of culture and community! Not only will you see vibrant flags adorning the squares, but you'll also be treated to an array of concerts, duodji craft fairs, family programmes, mouth-watering tastings, and engaging lectures. The northern line — Tromsø, Karasjok, Kautokeino (Guovdageaidnu) and Alta — is an absolute treat for those who visit during the weeks around the date. The weather and daylight hours require careful preparation, but this is all part of the fun! This guide is your key to the best experiences, from finding the official programmes to observing flag etiquette (Norwegian + Sami), trying the delicious Sapmi cuisine, buying duodji ethically, catching the Northern Lights at just the right time, and making the holiday comfortable with children.
What is Samefolkets dag and why is it on 6 February?
It is a day when the culture and rights of the Sami people are celebrated throughout Sápmi. The date is chosen to match the early Sami congresses and has become a symbol of visibility and solidarity. Each city has its own format: some focus on concerts and traditional music, others on educational events, crafts and activities for families. The most important thing is to take part in a way that is respectful, to support the people who make the products and to be interested in the languages and traditions of the people who make them.
Knowing the date is important because it helps you choose the right venue and plan your day.
Where are the main events taking place and how can you find the venues?
There are three types of location to consider: a central square/memorial, an indoor venue (like a cultural centre, library or campus) and a family area. In Tromsø, programmes are often spread between the centre and cultural venues; in Karasjok, they are centred around Sametinget and museums; in Kautokeino, the focus is on crafts and music; and in Alta, there are city venues and food fairs.
Some of the morning ceremonies involve flag-raising. Let's look at the etiquette.
On 6 February, we will look at how to behave when you see the Sami flag next to the Norwegian flag.
6 February is a special day in Norway. It is Flag Day. When these flags are flown together, the Norwegian flag is the most important. The Sami flag is placed next to it, usually on the right (as seen by the person looking at them) and after it in the order of its importance. The time for raising or lowering the flag is based on the general rules for the season. In winter, for example, the flag is raised later and lowered at sunset or according to the regulations. If there is only one flagpole, only one flag is raised. You don't have to fly the flag, but you can if you want to. Just make sure you do it at the right time and in the right order.
A holiday is also about taste, so let's try some Sapmi on a plate.
What should you try from the Sami cuisine, and where can you find it?
Try bidos (a hearty reindeer stew), gáhkku (flatbread), dried fish and reindeer, coffee with local additives, and desserts with lingonberries. In cities, old-fashioned recipes are used together with new ways of cooking. You can find this at street fairs, in cafes that only serve certain foods at certain times of the year, and places where you can buy food at cultural centres. Here's a tip: get there early if you want to try the food, because there's not much left by the time you get there.
Next to the food, there are also handicrafts for sale. Shop in a way that's good for you and the planet.
What is duodji and how can you buy it ethically (without fakes)?
Duodji are traditional crafts, including knives, leather goods, textiles and jewellery. Choose items sold by the people who make them or at fairs at cultural centres. Look for certificates and market signs, and learn about the materials and ornaments. Many of the designs have origins and meanings. You must not copy patterns to sell them without permission. If you buy directly, you are helping the artists and keeping traditions alive.
At holiday time, we all take lots of photos and videos. But it's important to be respectful.
Is it allowed to take photos of people and performances?
The most important rule is to ask for permission, especially when taking close-ups of children and during important religious practices. Museums and concerts may have restrictions, such as "no flash" or "no photography" — please respect signs and announcements by the hosts. If you're not sure, take a "wide shot" or a rear view. In our city mini-guides, we mark locations with clear photo rules. Remember: it's more important to respect people than to take a good shot.
If you want to spend a comfortable day in the north, you need the right equipment.
What is the best weather and clothing for early February?
The north is known for its cold weather, strong winds, and snow, and the days are short. Dress in layers to keep warm and dry. Wear thermal underwear, an insulating layer and wind protection. Wear shoes with treads or spikes and reflectors on your outer clothing. Make sure you have gloves, a hat and a buff. For children, add an extra layer of insulation and a warm thermos. Plan "indoor windows" for warming up.
At night, you might be able to see the Northern Lights.
How can you combine a holiday with a trip to see the Northern Lights?
The best times to look are late in the evening or at night when the sky is clear. Choose official viewing areas or tours with professional guides. Stay away from the road, protect your eyes from headlights, and don't go out on the ice without checking that it's safe. Bring a flask, warm clothes and a battery charger. In our city mini-guides, we collect "safe spots" and tips on how to get there by public transport.
You can also bring children and strollers, but you need to plan your route.
Are children and prams allowed, and is it easy to get around?
Yes. Choose venues that are easy to navigate, have toilets and indoor areas. For young children, bring earphones or earplugs to concerts and stay close to the edges to avoid people getting stuck. For guests who have difficulty moving around, check the lifts and entrances (these are marked on the accessibility maps).
Don't forget to sort out transport and book anything you need.
Find out how to get there and where to stay: transport and accommodation in cities in the north of the country.
In February, city networks operate on winter schedules; intercity transport is busier closer to weekends, so plan ahead. Airport transfers are convenient in Tromsø, but in Karasjok/Kautokeino, it's better to take the regional buses or rent a car (which must have winter tyres). Book your accommodation in advance, choose a cancellation option that works for you, and pick a location close to the venues.
6 February is Flag Day. How is this affecting the city?
What is open on 6 February and what are the special opening hours?
This is a special day, but it's not a holiday. Most services run on weekdays, but cultural venues and fairs may stay open longer. Restaurants often have special dishes at certain times of the year. Book a table if you want to try the set menu. The transport system will run as normal on weekdays, but there will be some small changes to the routes around the venues.
How can you help the community by taking part in the holiday in a meaningful way?
How to help: shopping in a way that is good for everyone, giving money and using the right words.
Buy from Duodji artisans and support cultural centres and schools with donations. Learn basic phrases: "Light the fire!" Have a happy holiday!
Learn about the meaning of ornaments and don't use them for commercial purposes without permission. Share photos of the venues and crafts (as long as you've got the organisers' permission).
And in case of a "plan B" — if the weather turns bad.
Here are some ideas for things to do when it's bad outside: stay inside!
Try visiting museums, libraries, campuses, and attend master classes and lectures. Many concerts and fairs are held indoors, so check the posters for more information. If you're with children, look for places with "quiet rooms", cafes nearby and somewhere to park the pushchair. If the roads are bad, stay in the centre of the city and use public transport. City mini-guides will provide addresses and "corridors" for getting around in bad weather.
Sami Day is the perfect chance to experience the vibrant and diverse North, from the majestic raising of flags to the enchanting sounds of joik, not to mention the mouth-watering bidos and the warm, welcoming duodji fairs. With a little preparation, you'll be all set for an eventful and comfortable day, no matter the weather. The right clothing, an understanding of flag etiquette, respect for photography rules and knowledge of where to find official programmes will make sure your day is a success!
We would absolutely love to hear your thoughts in the comments! If you have any photos, personal experiences or questions on the topic, we would love to hear them – please leave a comment! We can't wait to hear from you, because we're on a mission to create the most useful blog about Norway!
