This past Saturday our family got to participate in our first “Nissetog” (Santa Parade) in Honningsvåg. The event was sponsored by the Children’s Trekking Association (part of the Norwegian Trekking Association. All ages were invited to participate in the walk that lead from the City Hall down to the harbor. The more santa hats, the merrier.
I’ve been impressed by all the fun activities that are planned during the polar night season, from the lighting of the tree, to the northern most pepperkake (ginger bread) city, to concerts, gymnastic meets and the Santa parade. The events fill the dark days with wonder and excitement.
And what can be more exciting for a 5-year old, than dressing up in a Santa had and walking down the street with a 2-foot long flaming torch? Thankfully our daughter has learned not to run with scissors, and applied the same wisdom with the torch.
I guess with responsibility, comes sensibility. She did a great job holding her torch, along with many other Santas, making their way through the town, lighting up the polar night.
And when we reached the end of our jaunt, each child received a gift and a diploma from the Children’s Trekking Association. It was a great way to spend time as a family on a Saturday afternoon, and we’re looking forward to the next “nissetog”. Although our son will be five then, and a 2-foot long flaming torch might be more adventure than we’re read for.
Everyday life in the North Cape & North of Norway 
What fun! Ella looks very serious….I’m sure she’ll remember her first Nissetog with much wonder.