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Nutcracker Suite
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Traditions

Christmas in Norway

On the seven seas and in harbours throughout the world Christmas trees are set up on the mastheads of Norwegian ships when Christmas approaches. And on board ship, as in Norwegian homes all over the world, Christmas is celebrated Norwegian style - which means that it is celebrated a little differently from the way other people do it.

By Vera Henriksen
With the compliments of
The Royal Norwegian Consulate General, Vancouver, B.C.

Yet the differences are less than just a few years ago. Improved communications and increased interaction between countries have led to an intermingling of traditions. And to a foreign guest the similarities between Christmas in Oslo and in London or New York may appear more conspicuous than the differences.

There in the same hectic Christmas shopping spree, the big, lighted Christmas trees in the squares, streets decorated with garlands and lights, fanciful window displays with starry-eyed youngsters stretching their necks to get a better view.

And as in any city, the adults dream about the good, old-fashioned Christmas the way grandmother used to celebrate it.

But in Norway this is a dream that may come true - for those who are lucky enough to be invited to a real country Christmas.

Christmas in the country • The oldest traditions • Christmas in the towns

Norwegian Christmas web sites: www.julekort.no

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