New Year's Day, known as Nyttårsdag in Norwegian, is a widely celebrated holiday in Norway. It is the first day of the Gregorian calendar year, marking the beginning of a new year. As in many countries around the world, it is a public holiday in Norway and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. People take time off from work and children are off from school to indulge in festive activities and traditions.
The New Year's Day celebrations in Norway typically begin on the evening of December 31st, known as New Year's Eve, and go into the early hours of January 1st. The celebration involves fireworks at midnight to welcome in the new year. People gather around in public spaces or with family and friends to watch these fireworks displays. The Norwegian Royal Family traditionally attends a church service on New Year's Day which is broadcasted nationwide.
Moreover, another tradition in Norway for New Year's Day is a hearty feast. It is customary to have a large family meal prepared. Traditional Norwegian dishes, like Rakfisk, Lutefisk, and Multekrem, often feature in these meals. Overall, New Year's Day in Norway is a grand celebration full of joy, festivity, and eagerness for the year ahead.