May 17, 1814, marks both Norway's declaration of independence from Sweden and the
day on which its constitution was signed. At that time, however, the king of Sweden still
ruled Norway, and true independence didn't come until 1905, when the union with
Sweden was dissolved and Norway chose its own king. Nevertheless, this day remains
the great spring festival in Norway, and today it is celebrated primarily by young people.
The children's procession in Oslo, the capital city, is the largest of many school parades
throughout the country. Marching behind their school bands and banners, the children
pass under the balcony of the Royal Palace in salute to the king. Students who are about
to graduate from secondary school and enter college cheer and spin their tasseled caps
in the air on bamboo canes. In the afternoon, many neighborhoods have celebrations of
their own so that children who are too young to participate in the school parades may
march near their homes. Everyone joins in the procession, waving Norwegian flags,
leading dogs, and pushing baby carriages. Eventually they congregate in the town
square to listen to patriotic speeches and play games.
Full story:
https://encyclopedia2.thefreedictionary.com/Norway+Constitution+Day
--- Platinum Xpress/Win/WINServer v7.0
* Origin: The Hobby Line! BBS - hobbylinebbs.com (954:895/1)