One of Ballard’s biggest events is coming up next month: Syttende Mai is one month from today, bringing a parade and other events to downtown Ballard.
Syttende Mai — pronounced “Soot-n-duh My” — is the annual 17th of May celebration to honor Norway’s Constitution Day. The famous parade brings thousands to the streets of Ballard to watch marching bands, Norwegian-American lodges, drill teams, classic cars and more.
The festivities include more than just the parade — here’s the full schedule:
- 10am to 5pm: Barneleker – Children’s Events at the Nordic Museum. Kick off your celebration of Norwegian Constitution Day with a visit to the Nordic Museum. Longstanding favorites like the Fjord Horses, Nordic Express, and children’s activities will be onsite from 10am–2pm.
- 12pm to 2pm: Luncheon at the Nordic Museum. Join us for a traditional Norwegian Lunch with our Grand Marshal, speakers, and musical entertainment at the new Nordic Museum on Market Street.
- 12pm to 5pm: Open House at Leif Erikson Hall. Experience the unique ambiance of the Lodge’s historic murals, treat yourself to a delicious ekte Norsk lunch, and enjoy live music. The Lodge’s Nordic Café will be selling its famous smørbrød, lefse, and krumkake.
- 2pm to 5:45pm: Entertainment at Bergen Place. Join us at Bergen Place Park with Host Eric Stavney of the Scandinavian Hour for a full afternoon of the best Nordic music. Fun, fantastic, and free family entertainment!
- 6pm to 8pm: 17th of May Parade. The parade begins at the corner of NW 62nd and 24th Ave NW, and heads south down 24th to Market St, then east to Bergen Place Park. The route then turns right onto 22nd and continues south down Ballard Ave and ends at Lone St.
For more info or to volunteer, click here.
Photo from 2018 parade, courtesy Syttende Mai organizers