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Public Holidays in Norway – 2025

Public Holidays in Norway – 2025

Planning to work or move to Norway in 2025? It’s a good idea to check the dates of public holidays and national observances in advance. This will help you better plan your vacation, family visits, or simply time to relax. Norwegians place great importance on maintaining a balance between work and personal life, so statutory holidays are strictly observed.

Below is the current list of public holidays in Norway for 2025, along with a brief description of each.

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Public Holidays in Norway – 2025

In 2025, Norway observes 12 statutory public holidays. Some are religious, while others are significant national dates. Here are the official public holidays:

  • January 1 (Wednesday) – New Year’s Day (Nyttårsdag)
  • April 17 (Thursday) – Maundy Thursday (Skjærtorsdag)
  • April 18 (Friday) – Good Friday (Langfredag)
  • April 20 (Sunday) – Easter Sunday (Første påskedag)
  • April 21 (Monday) – Easter Monday (Andre påskedag)
  • May 1 (Thursday) – Labour Day (Arbeidernes dag)
  • May 17 (Saturday) – Constitution Day (Grunnlovsdagen)
  • May 29 (Thursday) – Ascension Day (Kristi Himmelfartsdag)
  • June 8 (Sunday) – Pentecost (Pinsedag)
  • June 9 (Monday) – Whit Monday (Andre pinsedag)
  • December 25 (Thursday) – Christmas Day (Første juledag)
  • December 26 (Friday) – Boxing Day (Andre juledag)

Observances in Norway – What You Should Know

Not all observances in Norway are statutory holidays; however, the ones listed above are officially recognized. Many Norwegian holidays have religious significance, although they are celebrated regardless of religious affiliation.

A particularly important day is May 17 – Constitution Day, considered the most significant national holiday. On this day, Norwegians wear traditional costumes, participate in colorful parades, and celebrate together in the streets of cities and towns.

Norway – Public Holidays and Vacation Planning

Statutory public holidays in Norway offer a great opportunity to plan extended breaks. In 2025, three holidays fall on Thursdays, allowing for the creation of a “long weekend” by taking just one day off. These are:

  • Maundy Thursday (April 17)
  • Labour Day (May 1)
  • Ascension Day (May 29)

Taking Friday off gives you four days to rest. It’s an ideal time for a family trip, connecting with nature, or visiting your home country.

Public Holidays in Norway – Regulations

In Norway, public holidays are designated for rest, and employees are entitled to time off on these days. If a holiday falls on a weekend, employees typically do not receive an additional day off unless specified in a collective agreement or internal company policies.

Employees in sectors that require work on holidays (such as hospitality, healthcare, or transportation) often receive financial bonuses or the option to take the day off at another time.

Summary of Public Holidays in Norway – 2025

Norway stands out among many European countries in terms of the number of public holidays. Employees have access to:

  • 12 statutory holidays throughout the year
  • Opportunities to plan extended weekends
  • Transparent regulations regarding work on public holidays

If you’re planning a move or employment in Norway, knowing the public holidays in 2025 will help you organize your daily life and professional activities.

Planning to Work in Norway?

Now that you’re familiar with the main public holidays in Norway, consider employment opportunities. The country has long been popular among job seekers, especially in sectors like construction, caregiving, hospitality, industry, and fisheries.

For legal and secure employment, regularly check listings on europa.jobs. Proper preparation for relocation and understanding Norwegian legal regulations significantly increase your chances of a successful career start abroad.

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