May 17th in Ålesund – a day for community and celebration

There are few places that combine tradition, aesthetics and community as beautifully as Ålesund on May 17th. When the city comes alive on National Day, the streets are filled with people dressed in traditional Norwegian costumes, flags and music. For a photographer, this is a rare opportunity to capture real moments, strong expressions and visual contrasts in a unique environment.

Street life and national pride in every frame

The celebration starts early in the morning with flag-raising and band music. In Ålesund, people gather at the town hall before eight o’clock, and many pose in beautiful traditional costumes – both local and from all over the country. For a photographer, it is important to be out early to find a good angle, especially when the children’s procession marches through the city center. The colorful costumes, happy children and lively cityscape provide a fantastic opportunity to capture authentic, emotional scenes.

The Art Nouveau architecture in the background gives your photos a timeless feel. Try using a shallow depth of field to highlight details in the bunads, while also including famous landmarks in Ålesund to set the mood. Street photography on May 17th requires quick reactions, so make sure to have your camera ready at all times.

Mood pictures and the social after the train

After the children's parade, many people gather in Byparken, at schools or at family homes. Here you have the opportunity to take more intimate and informal photos: smiles around ice cream and hot dogs, grandparents with grandchildren, groups of friends and flags waving in the wind. These are the moments that capture the very essence of May 17th in Ålesund – community, belonging and joy.

The lighting conditions vary throughout the day – from the bright morning light to the softer evening light that makes portraits extra atmospheric. If you stay until the evening, you can catch the fireworks over Brosundet or the mood lights reflected in the sea while the party-goers still fill the streets.

Recommended links

• Ålesund Municipality – Program for May 17th
  Find detailed program and practical information about today's events.

• Nasjonalbunad.no – Learn more about the national costumes
  Information about different national costumes and their history.

• Save the Children – May 17th activities for children
  Great ideas for children's games and activities for the celebration.

• Visit Norway – This is how we celebrate National Day
  Insight into how May 17th is celebrated across the country, including Ålesund.