Oslo based cultural events

Open house at Grini Mølle: November 09-10

Grini Mølle is opening its doors to the public on Saturday, November 9, and Sunday, November 10, from 12:00 to 16:00. The large brick building by the waterfall was constructed as a mill and sawmill in 1876, and the mill operated until 1904. A famously labyrinthine building, it boasts 2,500 square meters of space and is now home to creative businesses, including visual arts, sculpture, furniture, ceramics, and much more.

Visit this historical building, meet the creatives, and discover lovely gifts as Christmas approaches.

Farmer’s Markets in the Oslo region in November

This month, farmer’s markets will be held throughout Oslo and the region. You can find fresh, locally grown produce like vegetables and fruit, along with meat and homemade meat products directly from farmers. Sweet pastries, cheeses, and Norway’s famous brunost (brown cheese) will also be available. Check out all the dates and locations for November here, with markets in Oslo neighborhoods like Majorstuen and Grünerløkka, as well as nearby Lillestrøm.

Meet Two Real Dinosaur Skeletons at the Natural History Museum: October 2024 - December 29, 2024

Norway's first two complete dinosaur skeletons, Zelda and Zara, are exhibited as part of the Evolution of Life exhibition at the Natural History Museum. The skeletons are 70 percent original, with reconstructed parts completing them. This fascinating exhibit features dinosaurs that lived during the Late Cretaceous period, 80–74 million years ago.

Christmas Events in Oslo

Christmas market at Spikersuppa: November 09-December 31

The holiday season kicks off when Spikersuppa’s Christmas market, Jul i Vinterland—or Christmas in Winterland—opens in the heart of Oslo. Stroll through the market, soaking in the cozy Christmas vibes while enjoying freshly made street food and picking up sweet treats, ornaments, wool socks, winter hats, and all kinds of festive gifts. Find a spot by the fire, warm up with a hot cocoa or gløgg, and enjoy the Norwegian Christmas spirit. For a touch of holiday magic, hop on Reisen med Julestjernen, an enclosed Ferris wheel with cozy gondolas that lift you up to take in the sparkling view of lights and decorations from above.

Bring the kids along to skate on the fountain at Spikersuppa, transformed into a ice rink during the winter. For opening hours and this year’s vendors, check out their website.

The Christmas Fair at the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History: November 30-December 1 and December 7-8

The museum is hosting a Christmas fair to get everyone into the holiday spirit for the upcoming Christmas season. Visit on November 30 – December 1 and December 7 – 8, 2024, from 11:00 to 17:00. Enjoy beautifully decorated living rooms and yards that showcase Norwegian Christmas traditions through the years. The open-air museum will feature over 100 market stalls offering food, crafts, and Christmas gifts. Don’t miss the chance to try freshly baked lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread.

Bring the whole family! Kids can enjoy Santa games, make arts and crafts like hobby horses and wooden boats, and meet animals in the barn, including sheep, rabbits, and calves.

End the day by the bonfire or join in singing carols around the Christmas tree. Explore the full list of activities here.

Christmas Events Around the Oslo Region

Christmas Street Opening in Halden: November 14

Join the Christmas street opening in Halden on November 14 from 16:00 to 20:00. Explore festive market stalls, take your children on a sleigh ride, enjoy face painting, and listen to Christmas songs. At 18:00, there will be a spectacular fireworks display from Fredriksten Fortress, followed by the lighting of the Christmas tree. For more information, follow their Facebook event page.

Christmas Market at Fredriksten Fortress in Halden: November 23 – November 24

The beloved Christmas market at Fredriksten Fortress is back, transforming this historic site into a cozy holiday retreat filled with lights, decorations, and festive trees. Once a vital defensive landmark in Norway’s history, Fredriksten Fortress now welcomes visitors as a vibrant cultural treasure overlooking Halden. Wander through stalls brimming with handmade crafts, jewelry, and delicious treats, and savor the warmth and magic of the season. With its enchanting holiday decor and rich heritage, Fredriksten Fortress is the perfect spot to get into the Christmas spirit and prepare for the December celebrations.

Christmas Market in Åsgårdstrand: November 30-December 1

Known for Edvard Munch’s house and studio, Åsgårdstrand is the charming coastal town depicted in Munch’s famous painting, The Girls on the Bridge. When winter arrives, the town transforms into a cozy holiday setting. The Christmas market takes place on Saturday and Sunday, November 30 and December 1, from 12:00 to 16:00. On Sunday, join the Santa parade and enjoy the Christmas tree lighting.

Christmas Market in Fredrikstad: November 23 – December 15

Step back in time at the magical Christmas market in The Old Town (Gamlebyen) of Fredrikstad, a beautifully preserved fortress town. Constructed between 1663 and 1666, Fredrikstad Fortress is the only fortified town in Norway preserved in its original form. The historic buildings and cobbled streets create a charming, nostalgic atmosphere perfect for the holiday season. Kids will love the activities and the chance to meet “Old Town Santa,” who makes special appearances to spread cheer.