Viking Fest - Poulsbo, WA USA

- History -

Poulsbo's Viking Fest is a celebration of Norway's Constitution Day of May 17th (in Norwegian -"Syttende mai"), it is also referred to as Norway's national holiday (independence day is incorrect). In Norway, it is a festival of flags and colorful processions, where children have a central part to play as they walk to the music of marching bands. It is a time when you see traditional Norwegian costumes as a very prominent and natural part of the celebrations. The festivities last from the early morning to late at night. Parties with family and friends featuring traditional food and drinks are common. This is the most important day for the children during the summer.

Celebrate
"Syttende mai" at Viking Fest 2008

The day commemorates the adoption by Norway's parliament of its own constitution on May 17, 1814. A constitution in large part modeled on the constitution of the U.S. At that time the country was still a part of a union with Sweden, and May 17 became a lasting, unifying national symbol in the struggle for its independence that finally happened in 1905.

Velkommen...Come, Join the Celebration!

A Traditional Celebration
in it's 40th year!!