Norway’s Constitution was signed in Eidsvoll on 17 May 1814. It’s a very significant date in Norwegian history – on that day Norway became an independent nation, after over 400 years under Danish rule. Today 17 May (syttende mai in Norwegian) is Norway’s national day, and is marked every year with celebrations up and down the country. These centre around children, with school bands leading processions (known as tog, literally train), although other clubs and groups also join in. Everybody comes out to watch the parade, and many Norwegians, women in particular, like to wear the traditional costume or bunad for the occasion. The red, white and blue Norwegian flag can be seen everywhere, and 17 May is arguably the most popular day of the year – even bigger than Christmas!