New Year's Day Description
New Year's Day marks the first day of the Gregorian calendar. Norwegians celebrate New Year's Eve with formal dinners, fireworks at midnight, and the King's traditional televised speech from the Royal Palace. On New Year's Day, virtually all businesses, banks, and government offices close. Many Norwegians enjoy a quiet day at home with family, recovering from the previous night's celebrations. The day is typically marked by comforting meals and outdoor walks. In coastal communities, the traditional "nyttårskonsert" draws crowds, and watching the New Year's ski jumping event is a national pastime.