Norske kalendereChristmas Day
Norwegian: Første juledag
Christmas Day on December 25th is a public holiday in Norway. The day celebrates the birth of Jesus and is one of the most important family days of the year.
History
Christmas has both Christian and pre-Christian roots. The Christian celebration marks the birth of Jesus, while many of the traditions — such as Santa Claus, candles, and evergreen decorations — stem from Norse and Germanic winter solstice celebrations. Christmas has been celebrated in Norway since the introduction of Christianity around the year 1000, and many of today's traditions were established in the 1800s.
Norwegian Traditions
Christmas Eve (December 24th) is the main event in Norway — unlike many English-speaking countries where December 25th is the focus. Families gather for Christmas dinner — either pinnekjøtt (dried lamb ribs), ribbe (pork belly), lutefisk (lye-treated fish), or turkey depending on tradition and region. After dinner, presents are opened. Christmas Day is typically quiet and family-oriented, with leftovers from Christmas Eve and time to enjoy gifts and company.
Countdown to Christmas Day 2026
Christmas Day 2024–2030
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 25 Dec 2024 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | 25 Dec 2025 | Thursday |
| 2026 | 25 Dec 2026 | Friday |
| 2027 | 25 Dec 2027 | Saturday |
| 2028 | 25 Dec 2028 | Monday |
| 2029 | 25 Dec 2029 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | 25 Dec 2030 | Wednesday |
Frequently asked questions about Christmas Day
Christmas Eve is Thursday December 24th, Christmas Day is Friday December 25th, and the Second Day of Christmas is Saturday December 26th, 2026.
In Norway, Christmas Eve (December 24th) is the main celebration — not Christmas Day as in many English-speaking countries. Families gather for Christmas dinner, which may include pinnekjøtt (dried lamb ribs), ribbe (pork belly), lutefisk (lye-treated dried fish), or turkey depending on regional tradition. After dinner, presents are opened. Many families walk around the Christmas tree singing carols.
Christmas Eve (December 24th) is technically not a public holiday, but most workplaces give the day off. Christmas Day (December 25th) and the Second Day of Christmas (December 26th) are both public holidays.
"Romjul" is the Norwegian term for the days between Christmas and New Year (December 27th–30th). The name may come from the Old Norse "rúm" (space/gap). "Romjul" is for many a time for relaxation, family visits, leftovers, board games, and outdoor walks.
The most popular Christmas food varies by region. Ribbe (pork belly) is most common in eastern Norway, pinnekjøtt (dried lamb ribs) dominates in western and northern Norway, and lutefisk (lye-treated fish) is a traditional favourite. Dessert is typically riskrem (rice pudding with cream) with red sauce. During Advent, Norwegians bake seven types of Christmas cookies.