17. mai is Norwegian Constitution Day, and a day filled with events in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood.  As we do for the 4th of July in the United States, Norwegians celebrate their national day with parades and cultural events.  Since Norwegians (re-)gained their independence just 106 years ago in 1905, and then suffered under foreign occupation from 1940-1945, they celebrate this day with vigor and pride.  Events in Ballard start at 10 a.m., and include free admission to the Nordic Heritage Museum, a luncheon at the Son's of Norway Lodge, and musical entertainment at "Bergen Place" on Market Street.  The celebrations are capped off with the parade, starting at 6 p.m.  Watch for our little NorskSeattle.com banner!

If you're new to celebrating this holiday, here's a tip on how to dress: Norwegian sweaters or uff da shirts are of course welcome, but if you want to honor the day as they do in Norway and don't have your own Norwegian bunad (traditional costume), dress up in a nice spring dress or suit. 

For more information on the day's events, visit:  http://17thofmay.org/Events.html