Autumn in Oslo: Traditions, Safety Tips and Seasonal Events
After a long and sunny summer, autumn is now arriving in Norway. Cooler temperatures, crisp mornings, and colorful landscapes are all signs that the season is changing. To help you make the most of autumn in Oslo, we have gathered a few useful tips, traditions and local events.
Reflector Day
“Refleksdagen” (Reflector Day) is the 15th October. The goal of Reflector Day is simple: to encourage more people to use reflectors and help make Norwegian roads safer during the darker months.
If you have recently arrived in Norway, you will quickly notice how common reflectors are. They are inexpensive, easy to use and an important part of everyday life during autumn and winter.
Click here to buy your reflectors for the season.
Pink October: Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Pink October, a month dedicated to raising awareness, supporting research and standing together with everyone affected by breast cancer. If you are new to Norway, and aged 50-69, consider speaking with your primary physician about Norway’s national mammographyscreening program. A small step today could make a big difference tomorrow. 🎗️
Every year, a different Norwegian designer is given the task of designing the Pink Ribbon pin. People wear the pin during the month of October to support breast cancer research. This year’s version of the pin is designed by the brand Ella&il. The pins are sold in various stores across the country, such as flower shops and pharmacies.
Fårikål aka Lamb and Cabbage Stew
The last Thursday in September will be celebrated with Norway’s national dish ‘fårikål’ or cabbage stew. Fårikål was voted Norway’s national dish and remains a favorite autumn tradition across the country. Fresh white cabbage, lamb on the bone, whole black pepper and some salt, cook for several hours and serve with boiled potatoes, and you can enjoy the traditional autumn meal. Fun fact: In 2015, Oslo hosted a Guinness world-record Fårikål event where almost 600 kg of the dish was prepared and enjoyed by thousands of visitors.
Autumn Break
Many of you have heard or will hear about ‘høstferie’ (autumn break), a tradition that dates back to Norway’s agricultural history. The last week in September or the first week in October, schools will close for one week, although the timing varies by region. Many Norwegian families use the opportunity to travel, visit their cabins, or enjoy outdoor activities. For those of you with children in school, it’s worth checking your municipality’s holiday calendar.
Did you know that Oslo has its own Octoberfest?
For three weekends (Thurs – Sat) in October, Youngstorget transforms into a lively festival area filled with traditional food, music and entertainment. Whether you’re going with colleagues, friends or family, it’s a fun way to experience another popular European autumn tradition right in the heart of the city. You can book a table or grab the first one you see in the areas that are not reserved.
Looking for more autumn activities? Visit Oslo regularly updates its event calendar with concerts, exhibitions, outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities throughout the season.
