AboutRoy Helge Rasmussen Expertise I live in the southern part of norway and can find my way around most of the country. I will answer questions about social life, culture, language and politics to the best of my knowledge. I am not so good at travel tips outside the south-eastern parts, although I will try to answer.
Experience I live here and have been guiding members of my family around when they visit from abroad for years.
Question I was wondering if there were any coming-of-age celebrations in
Norwegian culture. (For example: a bat mitzvah in jewish tradition,
a quincieniera in spanish tradition, etcetera). Any information you
have would be appreciated. Thanks!
Answer Similar to most christian based nations, CONFIRMATION, at age 14 or 15 has been the most important coming of age ceremony. Confirmation is toady still administered by the norwegian church to the majority, but non-confessional rites has also gained popularity. Naturally, most of the minor faiths have their own rites.
Confirmation is usually celebrated in the extension of church service with a large very formal dinnerparty for family and family friends. Everybody dress up in their nicest clothes, and there be speeches and homemade songs.
After a dip in popularity, the traditional folk costume BUNAD has gained popularity again the last ten years, especially among girls. (Bunad literally means homeplace-clothes) These costumes are elaborately ornamented woolen clothes often with lots of silver decorations.
The Confirmant receive gifts from far and near. Much the same way you would expect in a wedding. But unlike weddings, Giving money is considered quite proper.
