National traditions of Norway. Habits, mentality and the way of living

This ancient country of Vikings, Norway, is rich not only with natural beauties but also with numerous traditions, customs and beliefs. The Norwegian society as a whole is composed of a group of quiet and hard-working domestic folks. Therefore, mass festivities are rare even in the capital of the country. As an alternative, the inhabitants of the country harmoniously and with pleasure are engaged in all kinds of winter sports. Specialized stores are full of buyers. Another passion of the Norwegians is frequent travel. Regardless of the harsh climatic conditions and the considerable amount of stress it brings, families organize themselves and embark on regular hiking with children and domestic animals.

Reserved and quiet, Norwegians are not crazy about trendy beautiful clothes or delicious food. Traditional Christmas dishes are cooked according to family recipes which have been transmitted through different generations mostly from the great-grandmother. The range of clothes and accessories are quite meager. The only exception in the self-denying lifestyle of the northern people is ice cream. The passion for this dairy delicacy spreads from the capital to the tiniest most remote village beyond the Arctic Circle.

In the home life, Norwegians adhere to the superiority of women in all matters. Therefore, women are self-confident blue-eyed “Valkyries” with a mop of dazzling white hair. Men are often reserved, brooding and absentminded. The American lifestyle is popular in the country, expressed in casual style of clothes, love for fast food and even in their accent. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Weekends in the small northern country are noisy and fun. Norwegians have regard for quality liquor and free flowing communication. High career ambitions and education – on weekends all this ceases to be a priority for Norwegians who want to have a good time. The descendants of the warlike Vikings are known for their impressive conceit. Norwegians consider themselves to be the most beautiful and effective, and their native language to be sweet music for a pampered hearing. The severe Norwegian nature in their opinion is not just beautiful, but is like eighth Wonder of the world.

The country having not yet entered into the Schengen agreement, still uses the National Kroner instead of the euro. Independent and indifferent to other people’s opinions, these are some of the characteristic traits of the Norwegians. Strong and witty, they express their opinion directly, not minding how it will be perceived by others. Brave and proud, the Scandinavians however do not take criticism lightly. Also known to be indifferent to luxury, Norwegians are tremendously occupied with the improvement of their future and taking care of the prospects for their children. At the point when oil deposits were discovered in the country, the main income from its use was spent on the establishment of a foundation for the advancement of the country for the benefit of the future generations.

Christmas holidays in Norway last from Christmas, December 24 to January 13. The festivities end on the day of Saint Kanata, when “Christmas is being swept away” literally. All Christmas trees and New Year decorations are taken to the coffers until the following year. Christmas Eve is traditionally celebrated in the family circle, near the lighted chimney. According to the ancient tradition, for a merry Christmas, the festive dinner is decorated with “7 rolls” namely: Kransekake – a cake of almond rings, Yulekake – a fluffy pastry with the addition of raisins, Fattigmann – baked wood-like pastry, Krumkake – crispy waffle cookie with whipped cream, Pepperkaker – spicy pastry with the addition of ginger, Mandelkake – a yeast pie with the addition of almond crumbs, and Riskrem – a gentle cream from rice pudding with strawberry jam.

Wedding customs in Norway are rooted in the communal system. To get married, the future bride ought to loudly and under witnesses shout to her betrothed “yes”. Personal arrangements alone are not taken into account. Some time ago, all the guests got to the bride’s place where the dowry would be paid, on narrow boats decorated with ribbons and flowers. Present day Norwegians continue this ancient custom with pleasure, supplementing the boat ride with photo sessions. In ancient times, the bride’s hair was adorned with a massive golden crown. Now it has been replaced with a weightless elegant accessory. In any case, the porridge prepared on the day of the wedding from wheat and cream by the bride, still adorns the wedding tables.