Norway famous for its majestic fjords, vibrant cities, and deep rooted traditions continues to be one of Europe’s most captivating destinations. In 2026, Norwegians and visitors alike can look forward to a calendar full of long weekends, offering the perfect opportunity to explore the country’s dramatic landscapes, cozy towns, and cultural experiences.
Whether you’re hoping for a peaceful mountain retreat, a city break in Oslo or Bergen, or a scenic drive through coastal fjords, Norway’s long weekends in 2026 are ideal for relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation.
Many Norwegian employers today recognize the importance of work-life balance, often supporting additional days off around public holidays or offering flexible schedules a practice that contributes to employee happiness and productivity.
Let’s explore the public holidays and long weekends in Norway in 2026, and how you can make the most of each one.
Public Holidays in Norway – 2026
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New Year’s Day – Thursday, January 1
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Maundy Thursday – April 2
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Good Friday – April 3
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Easter Monday – April 6
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Labour Day – Friday, May 1
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Constitution Day – Sunday, May 17
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Ascension Day – Thursday, May 14
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Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday) – June 1
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Christmas Day – Friday, December 25
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Boxing Day (St. Stephen’s Day) – Saturday, December 26
Norway Long Weekends in 2026
New Year’s Day: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 – Thursday, January 1, 2026
Known as Første nyttårsdag, New Year’s in Norway is a festive celebration filled with fireworks, family gatherings, and traditional meals. Taking Friday, January 2, off turns this into a four day long weekend, perfect for winter activities like skiing or cozying up in a mountain cabin.
Maundy Thursday – Good Friday – Easter Monday: April 2 – April 6, 2026
Easter week (Påskeferien) is one of Norway’s most anticipated breaks. With Maundy Thursday (April 2), Good Friday (April 3), and Easter Monday (April 6) all being public holidays, many Norwegians enjoy a five day long weekend by taking off the preceding Wednesday or the following Tuesday. Families often head to the mountains to ski, enjoy Kvikk Lunsj chocolate, and relax in cabins surrounded by snow.
Labour Day: Thursday, May 1 – Sunday, May 3, 2026
Known as Arbeidernes dag, Labour Day celebrates workers’ rights with parades and community events. Since it falls on a Friday in 2026, it creates a three day long weekend a great time to enjoy springtime hikes or explore Norway’s scenic cities.
Constitution Day & Ascension Day: May 14 – May 17, 2026
This week in May brings two major holidays: Kristi Himmelfartsdag (Ascension Day) on Thursday, May 14, and Grunnlovsdagen (Constitution Day) on Sunday, May 17 By taking Friday, May 15, off, you can create a four day weekend leading into Norway’s biggest national celebration filled with parades, flags, music, and traditional bunads.
Whit Monday (Pentecost Monday): May 30 – June 1, 2026
Known as Andre pinsedag, Whit Monday offers another three day weekend from Saturday, May 30, to Monday, June 1. Many Norwegians spend this weekend enjoying the outdoors, attending local festivals, or taking short trips to the coast or countryside.
Christmas & Boxing Day: December 25 – December 28, 2026
The Christmas season in Norway (Julen) is a time for family, warmth, and tradition. With Christmas Day (Friday, December 25) and Boxing Day (Saturday, December 26) creating a natural three day long weekend, many Norwegians extend it further by taking off Monday, December 28. Expect beautifully decorated homes, candlelit markets, and cozy evenings by the fire.
Conclusion
Norway’s long weekends in 2026 promise the perfect mix of rest, celebration, and exploration. Whether you’re admiring the Northern Lights, hiking in Lofoten, or enjoying the midnight sun in Tromsø, these extended breaks are opportunities to reconnect with nature and culture.
For businesses, offering flexible days around these holidays supports employee well being and productivity. And for travelers or locals, planning ahead ensures every long weekend becomes a memorable experience.
Use tools like Day Off to track holidays, plan your leave, and make the most of every extended break and consider using creative platforms like Canva to design and share your travel memories!