Oslo's Royal Palace on 17th May

Last weekend Norway celebrated the 200th anniversary of its Constitution on what is regarded by all as its National Day: May 17th. One of the charming traditions of this day is the parading in front of the king and other members of the Norwegian royal family by all the school children of Oslo. Everyone is dressed in their best –sometimes national costumes- flags are waved, bands play and there is a bright and vibrant atmosphere. Often the weather is benign. This year it certainly was! There are many other events this day, from concerts to parties to impromptu dances, and this year was particularly grand in all respects. But the children's parade is still my favourite part of it. I watch the start of it on television (for it lasts for hours) and then stroll the five minutes it takes me to get to the palace to watch the last part of it –by which time there is slightly less of a crowd, and I am always able to get a good position. if you look very carefully on the side of the picture you will see a lady in blue watching from one of the palace windows. This is the queen of Denmark who was visiting. As Norway was partly celebrating its independence from Denmark it wouldn't have been right for her to be on the balcony with the king and queen of Norway – but I can well understand her enthusiasm and delight in wanting to see the parade nonetheless! Location: Oslo, Norway