Bring your Norwegian (or Sami) flags, have some ice cream and join the parade: Celebrate the 17th of May – the Norwegian Constitution Day - here in Brooklyn, New York. On May 18th, that is.
The parade is arranged by the Norwegian-American 17th May Committee of Greater New York, and features both Viking ships, Norwegian flags and marching bands. The 17th of May is the celebration of Norway's constitution, which was adopted in 1814. In Norway, it is celebrated throughout the day, with children’s parades, games and good food – especially a lot of ice cream and hot dogs. Everyone dresses up – many in their national costumes – the “bunad” – and the whole of Norway is decorated with flags and spring green leaves of white birch.
The Committee state that it is their purpose “to encourage and develop a deep appreciation of the ideals of independence and freedom that the 17th of May and Norway’s Constitution signifies by holding an annual celebratory parade in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, New York”
The parade steps off at 1:30pm on Fifth Avenue at 89th Street and proceeds north along Fifth Avenue to 67th Street, turning right to pass the reviewing stand on the south side of Leif Ericson Park. Rain or shine – as the Committee underlines. In commemoration of the 193rd Anniversary of Norway’s Constitution, the theme this year will be: “Salute to Norwegian Explorers”.
So why is the parade held on the 18th instead of the 17th, you say? The parade is held every year on the Sunday closest or otherwise most appropriate to the 17th of May. There you have it.
When: May 18, 2008, 1:30 P.M.
Where: Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
Info: Visit the Committee's website at www.may17paradeny.com