Oslo at Christmas is truly a festive place to be. There’s so much to see, do, and taste, and I’m here to share some of my favorite tips on how to make the most of the lead-up to Christmas in Norway’s capital city.

 

 

Top Christmas attractions in Oslo

Oslo really comes alive during førjulstida (the time leading up to Christmas). Whether you enjoy a calm evening strolling through markets, discovering cozy streets with beautiful Christmas lights or going to a concert, there are so many sites to see in Oslo in November and December.

Visit Christmas markets

The first thing many do when they go to a new city around Christmas time, is to find the nearest Christmas markets, and I don’t blame them. It’s an excellent place to get in the festive mood, try local cuisine and find unique decorations and gifts.

 In Oslo there are several markets to choose from, and there are a few that you definitely don’t want to miss:

 Jul i Vinterland

Jul i Vinterland, located along Karl Johan, is Oslo’s biggest Christmas market, running from November 11th to December 31st. Besides shopping and food, it offers fun attractions like a slide, a ferris wheel with stunning city centre views, the Ballongferden ride, the pony express, and don’t forget the ice skating rink! It can get quite busy, so I would recommend to go during the weekdays to avoid the worst crowds.

 

Norsk Folkemuseum’s Market

 

If you want to learn more about the Norwegian traditions and experience going back in time, you should visit Norsk Folkemuseum’s market during Christmas. The market takes place over two weekends in November and December, and it’s a chance to step back in time and enjoy some classic Nordic treats, live music, folk dancing, and activities for the kids (think pony rides and craft workshops).

 

Bondens Marked (Farmer’s Market)

Bondens Marked is hosted at several locations across Oslo and surrounding towns between December 1st and 22nd. It is a farmers market where you can find food from local farmers, such as locally sourced honey, pastries, homemade fruit juice and more.

 

But that’s not all, there are even more markets to discover in Oslo. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience and would like to support local artists, check out Oslo’s super market at SALT, or the yearly market at Sentralen where you also support local artists, enjoy farm life at Bogstad Gård, or jump on the train (only a 15 minute journey) to visit Bærums verk’s Christmas market.

 

Travel tip –> If you have a few extra days and would like to go visit another popular Norwegian city, check out my YouTube-episode on how you can easily travel from Oslo to Bergen by train, fjord cruise and bus, and book your fjord tour to Bergen on the Fjord Tours website.

 

The sound of Christmas in Oslo

If what truly gets you in the Christmas spirit during Christmas is music, you can not only discover that at the markets. Several Christmas themed concerts are hosted across Oslo every year. If you’re in Oslo in late November, don’t miss Sølvguttene at Nordstrand Church. They’re Norway’s most famous choir, and December is their busiest time of year. If you can’t make their November concert, don’t worry – they perform in surrounding towns on several dates leading up to Christmas Eve!

 

In addition to Sølvguttene, we also have other førjulskonserter (pre-Christmas concerts) as we call it, to ring in Christmas each year. Norwegian Gospel voices, Oslokoret and Kammerkoret Le Voci and more, all have concerts across Oslo to welcome the spirit of Christmas each year.

You can find an overview of  Christmas Concerts in Oslo here.

 

Top spots for holiday shopping

I must admit, though it can be stressful to run around buying gifts for family and friends for Christmas, being surrounded by Christmas celebrations, decorations, lights and festivities, makes shopping a little bit less stressful.

 

I have already mentioned the incredible Christmas markets that are all over the city during Christmas, and it’s a good place to start if you’re looking for some truly unique gifts this year. But there are also plenty of other options, whether you want to visit the big chains, malls, or small independent shops.

 

Glasmagasinet, right in the Oslo city center, offers everything from specialised designs and clothing to cosmetics, flowers, electronics, and more. If you’re after something truly Norwegian, head to Husfliden, where you’ll find the traditional Bunads (Norwegian national costumes), along with accessories and fabric for them. They also carry knitting and weaving yarns, plus needlework accessories.

 

If you’re looking for something different, check out Vigeland Museum Shop for unique Scandinavian art-inspired gifts, or Kunsthåndverk for handcrafted Norwegian designs. For cozy home goods, check out Julehuset, while Eger offers a mix of high-end fashion and luxury brands.

 

Plus, check out the quirky boutiques in Grünerløkka and the trendy shops around Oslobukta, where you’ll find everything from vintage treasures to cool, local designs.

 

Would you like to learn some Christmassy words and phrases before your trip? Check out my video to learn 15 Norwegian words for your next trip.

 

Traditional Norwegian Christmas food

One of the most important parts of Christmas in any culture, is food. That is also true for Norway.  Whether you plan on cooking yourself, have been invited to a Norwegian Christmas party or want to go out to eat, the options are many.

Norway has some unique dishes, drinks and sweets that might surprise you. If you visit Oslo during Christmas, why not try these dishes:

 

Ribbe

Ribbe is a Christmas classic, often enjoyed throughout the holiday season, but especially on Christmas Eve. It’s pork ribs, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making it a true Christmas food staple.

 

Pinnekjøtt

Pinnekjøtt is also a go-to Christmas Eve meal, especially in Western Norway. Think of it as lamb ribs that are salted, dried, and sometimes smoked, giving them a rich, savory flavor. The name “pinnekjøtt” literally translates to “stick meat,” which comes from the birch sticks used in the cooking process.

 

Lutefisk

 

Lutefisk is an acquired taste for sure, but it is still one of the most popular dishes to eat in Norway during Christmas. Many people eat this leading up to Christmas, but its also a dish often served on Julaften (Christmas Eve), which is the day Norwegians celebrate Christmas.

 

It’s made of dried cod that has been soaked in a lye solution, giving it a gelatinous texture. After being rinsed to remove the lye, it’s typically served with sides like boiled potatoes and melted butter.

 

Curious about lutefisk? Check out  this video I made on YouTube where I present how to make and how to eat it Norwegian style.

 

Gløgg

Though it’s not exactly food, it had to be included. Gløgg is similar to mulled wine, but in Norway it’s served with its own twist. Gløgg is typically made with red wine, infused with spices like cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. What makes gløgg extra special are the raisins and nuts that are added to each serving. It might sound strange, but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!

 

Don’t forget the sweet treats! In Norway you won’t only be surrounded by tasty Norwegian food, but if you are a sweet tooth like me, you will love our traditional sweets and pastries you can find at markets and in shops at Christmas time. Be sure to try out these on your next trip:

 

Lefse

Lefse is a tasty Norwegian flatbread made from potatoes and flour, and it’s super versatile. You can slather it with butter and sugar for a sweet treat or use it to wrap up meats and cheeses. It’s a holiday favorite, and if you’re lucky you can also find it outside the Christmas season.

 

Krumkake

 

Krumkake is like a little edible cone of joy! This crispy Norwegian cookie is made from a sweet batter cooked in a special iron, giving it that perfect cone shape. You can fill it with whipped cream, ice cream or enjoy it plain.

 

Riskrem

Riskrem is the ultimate dessert during Christmas, whether you’re hosting a party, you’re eating out at a restaurant or you’re enjoying it on Christmas Eve (which is a tradition for many). It’s made from risengrynsgrøt (rice porridge) creating a light and fluffy texture. Riskrem is typically served cold and is topped with a vibrant red berry sauce made from sweet red berries like strawberries or raspberries, or even red fruit juice!

 

Julekake

 

Julekake (Christmas cake) is a sweet but spiced loaf often filled with raisins and topped with orange candied peel. It’s served in slices and is perfect with a cup of tea or a hot coffee.

 

Norwegians also love a wide range of Christmas cookies and pastries, chocolate filled with marsipan and so much more. Be sure to truly indulge in what Norway has to offer during Christmas, and don’t be afraid to try some new things.

Best places to eat out in Oslo for Christmas

If you’re looking to dive into the flavours of Christmas at restaurants in Oslo, I’ve got some amazing spots for you. These all either roll out their own special Christmas menu or offer certain festive dishes in December, and trust me, these are the places to visit in Oslo:

 

Café Engebret

Step back in time at this historic gem in Oslo. With cozy vibes, a classic Christmas plate (juletallerken) to sample Norwegian favorites, and indulgent desserts, Café Engebret is a must during Christmas in Oslo.

 

Lorry

Lorry is truly a culinary adventure and one of my personal favourites. It’s a spot near Majorstuen with history dating back to the 1870’s. Their Christmas menu has it all: traditional holiday dishes, great vegetarian options, and irresistible desserts.

 

Gamle Raadhus

Well Gamle Raadhus is the picture of history. The building was the original city hall dating back to 1641, but today it’s a cozy, charming spot where you can dive into all the best Christmas flavors.

 

Kaffistova

For a cozy Christmas vibe, head to Kaffistova. Step in from the cold, and you’re hit with the smell of freshly baked treats and classic holiday dishes. It’s got that clean, Scandinavian style but it still feels super welcoming.

 

Elias Mat og Sånt

If you’re after a chill, homestyle Christmas meal, Elias Mat og Sånt is where it’s at. Cozy vibes, laid-back atmosphere, and all the classic holiday flavors—like a little slice of home right in the city.

 

Hotel Bristol

For a more refined yet cozy Christmas experience, Hotel Bristol is a great choice. If you’re staying the night (or even if you’re not) and don’t feel like brazing the potential crazy winter weather, enjoy a traditional Norwegian Christmas meal in their very own restaurant.

 

Do you want to explore more hidden gems in the big city? Then take a look at my video where I take you along seven hidden gems in Oslo!

 

 

Norwegian traditions

If there’s one thing Norway is full of leading up to Christmas, it’s traditions. It’s something us Norwegians hold very dearly that makes the holiday season extra special. Here are some of our traditions that gets us in the Christmas spirit:

 

Advent marks the four weeks leading up to Christmas Eve and celebrates the coming of Christ. Each Sunday, people light a candle in their advent wreath and say a short phrase. For each Sunday that we get closer to Christmas, we light another candle until the last Sunday where all candles have been lit and Christmas is officially just around the corner.

 

Each year, towns across Norway celebrate the start of Christmas by lighting up the town square Christmas tree. It’s a big moment for each community, and while every town has its own spin on the event, you can usually count on a visit from Nissen (Santa Claus), delicious gløgg (mulled wine), and live music.

 

Lucia (December 13th) is inspired by St. Lucia from Nordic folklore, but is also based on legends and historical facts. On this day, kids in nurseries and schools bake lussekatter (saffron buns), wear white robes, hold a lit candle and sing the lucia-song while they walk in a parade, often handing out the pastries to other kids.

 

Julebord is Norway’s version of Christmas parties, and is often hosted by the company you work for, or friends or family. Traditional Christmas dishes are usually served and it’s a time for good food and company. If you ever attend one, be prepared to see Norwegians truly let loose as there is usually plenty of alcohol being served.

 

Mandel i grøten (Almond in the porridge) is one of Norway’s sweetest traditions. Some eat this on the 23rd or 24th, but many enjoy it even before Christmas Eve. Usually the family gathers to eat julegrøt (Christmas porridge), and in the porridge there is one almond. Whoever gets the almond win a prize, which is always a marzipan pig.

 

If you’re looking to experience more winter magic, book your winter fjord cruise from Oslo here. Are you curious to see what it would be like? Then check out the winter fjord cruise YouTube episode I made.

 

I hope you enjoyed this article and that it inspired you to make the most of the Christmas season in Oslo!