🎄 Winter holidays in Norway without surprises: from Advent to 6 January — what's open, how to get there and where to watch fireworks 🎆

The winter season in Norway is a time of joy and warmth, filled with heartwarming traditions and special events that make the season truly magical. The festive season is upon us, and what a season it's set to be! The lights of Advent and Luciadagen (13 December) will illuminate the city, and the family evening Julaften (24 December, with the festive period commencing at 16:00) will be a night to remember. The public holidays on 25–26 December are just the beginning, as the peaceful Romjul (27–30) will offer moments of calm and relaxation. And what better way to celebrate the New Year than with a spectacular fireworks display and a "quiet start" on 1 January, followed by the grand finale — Helligtrekongersdag (6 January)! This awesome guide tells you everything you need to know about what's open and closed, how transport runs, where you can safely watch the fireworks, how to book restaurants and how to spend your days with children or on a workation.

How is the winter season organised: what are the milestones from Advent to 6 January?

The calendar looks like this: Advent (four Sundays with fairs and lights) → Luciadagen (13 December) → Julaften (24 December, helligdagsfred from 4 p.m.) → 25 December and 26 December (public holidays) → Romjul (27–30/12) → Nyttårsaften (31/12, fireworks, night transport) → 1/1 (public holiday) → Helligtrekongersdag (6/1, end of the season).

Knowing these dates makes it easier to understand the opening hours of shops and services.

What is usually open during Advent and on Luciadagen (13 December)?

On weekdays during Advent, shops, Vinmonopolet, cafes/restaurants and museums are open as usual; on Sundays, they have reduced hours where customary. Luciadagen ( , 13 December) is a weekday with processions in schools and offices, but city fairs continue to operate. It is a good idea to plan evening walks to see the lights and bazaars, and if you want a quiet hour, come during the day.

The main changes begin on 24 December because of helligdagsfred.

What is helligdagsfred on Julaften and how does it affect your plans?

Helligdagsfred means "holiday silence." It starts at 4 p.m. on 24 December: shops and services close early, and loud activities are restricted. Tip for the day: do all your shopping before lunch, pick up pre-orders, and check transport and restaurant schedules if you are planning an early dinner out. The home scenario includes gifts after dinner, a quiet walk, and candles.

Since helligdagsfred affects "hours," let's take a look at retail and Vinmonopolet.

How do supermarkets and Vinmonopolet operate on 24–26 December and 31 December?

24/12: supermarkets and Vinmonopolet often have reduced opening hours; arrive early. 25/12: usually closed; 26/12: supermarkets — "minimum/reduced", Vinmonopolet — closed. 31/12: both formats with reduced evening hours. Tip: do your main shopping 1–2 days before the 24th; on the 31st, only buy last-minute items.

Transportation also changes along with shops, especially on 24–26 and 31 December–1 January.

How does public transport run on Christmas and New Year's Eve?

24 December: Saturday or holiday schedule, with shorter evening services. 25–26 December: weekend schedule; longer intervals, some lines less frequent. 31 December: additional evening/night services in major cities; 1 January: holiday schedule and late start in the morning. Intercity (Vy/Flytoget/Avinor) will be overloaded on 23–24 and 1–2 January — book in advance and allow extra time.

If you plan to watch fireworks, it is important to know the rules and safe viewing locations.

Where is it safe to watch fireworks on 31 December and what are the rules?

The rules vary depending on the municipality: launch times, permitted areas, restrictions in courtyards/on balconies, possible "no drone" zones. The easiest option is official shows and recommended viewing points with security checks and convenient access. Bring ear protection for children, avoid crowded areas near the water, keep your distance and do not leave litter behind.

Not everyone wants noise, which is why they appreciate a quiet Romjul.

What to do during Romjul (27–30 December): what is open and what is there to do?

During Romjul, the city becomes quieter: coffee shops, some museums and libraries are open, and parks and embankments are more convenient. Short walks, ice skating rinks and spas are ideal for slow travel. For work, there are coffee shops with Wi-Fi, co-working spaces and libraries with "quiet rooms". Transport runs regularly, but on holiday/reduced schedules.

On 25–26 December, many people look for open restaurants and museums.

Is there anywhere to eat and what is there to see on 25–26 December?

Yes, but the choice is limited. On the 25th, only a few restaurants (mostly hotels) and some museums are open; on the 26th, there are more options, but not everything is open. The best plan is to book slots at hotels/large venues in advance and check the opening hours of specific museums. For families, choose routes with warm indoor venues nearby (cultural centres, libraries).

Cultural traditions are also important to many people, such as church services and Lucia.

Are there English-language Christmas services and how can I find them?

In large cities, some parishes hold English-language or bilingual services, especially on Julaften and the 25th. On Luciadagen, there are often open processions and concerts. Respect the rules for photography in churches, arrive early and choose seats near the aisles if you have children or guests with limited mobility.

Before Julaften, it is useful to have a short checklist for your home and gift etiquette.

How to prepare for Christmas Eve at home: checklist and etiquette?

Plan for before 4 p.m.: last-minute groceries, candles/matches, wrapping paper, batteries for toys, simple hot food, sweets and drinks. Check the start time of helligdagsfred, guest transport schedules and tidy up the entrance hall/courtyard. Etiquette: gifts are usually given after dinner; for guests, it is appropriate to "come for a short while". If there are children, agree in advance on a time for opening gifts and quiet activities.

After the 31st, the focus shifts to a "quiet" 1 January.

What is open on 1 January and how to spend a "quiet" New Year?

1 January is a public holiday: shops and Vinmonopolet are usually closed, restaurants are limited, museums are open selectively, and transport runs on a weekend schedule. The best scenarios: a late breakfast at a hotel/café, a leisurely stroll along the embankment, ice skating/spa, watching films at home. If you are planning a trip, choose daytime slots and double-check the schedules.

Flag rules are also important in winter — this applies on 25 December and 1 January.

How does flag etiquette work on 25 December and 1 January?

25 December and 1 January are official flag days. Government agencies are required to fly the flag; private individuals are encouraged to do so. The general rule is to raise the flag in the morning and lower it at sunset/in the evening; in northern cities, follow local customs. If you are flying several flags, give priority to the Norwegian flag.

Finally, logistics during peak days and how to avoid crowds.

How to avoid crowds and traffic bottlenecks on peak days?

The busiest times are the evenings of 23–24 December and 31 December, as well as the morning of 1 January. Early bookings, very early or late departures, allowing 15–20 minutes for transfers and choosing alternative stops away from central squares will help. For fireworks, arrive early, stick to the recommended routes and plan your return route on foot.

Norwegian winter is the best! It's all about cosiness, respect for traditions and sensible planning. Get to know all about the incredible events that make December–January such a festive season! Discover the magical days of Lucia, the spectacular fireworks of Romjul, and the New Year's celebrations that usher in the new year with a bang. Plan your unforgettable adventure from the 25th to the 26th of December, and make this holiday season the most memorable one yet! Save this guide and check city navigators for specific details, including current opening hours, maps and tips for families, visitors and those combining holidays with work.

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