Events in Norway

Every year, Norway celebrates its independence on May 17. Over 600,000 children from all over Norway come together in Oslo to march in this parade. There are also over 100,000 people decked out in costumes and bands from more than 100 schools participating in the parade. They are greeted by the royal family who are watching the festivites from the balcony of the royal palace, and this celebration is broadcast on television nationwide.

The Ultima Contemporary Music Festival was first held in 1991 and has since hosted over 1500 performances by 560 composers from around the world, with 260 works being given for the first time at this event. This event is organized by 18 of the city’s leading music and art institutions which showcases new international and modern art all over the city. One of the main focuses on the festival is to get people to challenge conformity and promote public interest in innovative art in Norway. This is also a great source for commissions for composers and performers alike.

Given by the Norwegian Publishers Association and Norway Trade Fairs, the Oslo Book Fair is an annual event that brings together readers from all over the world. Attending will be authors, booksellers, agents, publishers, librarians, students, teachers, politicians and readers. The event is held at Norway Trade Fairs Centre - Norway's largest exhibition center.

The Nobel Peace Prize Awards in Oslo take place during the same time as the other Nobel awards are handed out in Stockholm. The Norwegian Nobel Institute hands out the prestigious Peace prize to individuals or organizations whose work and achievements have advanced world peace and global cooperation. The event takes place in the Town Hall of Oslo, Radhuset, and is attended by the king as well as the highest functionaries of the state.