Cultural Calendar: November 2023

They say that the best way to get used to cold weather is to proactively adjust your inner thermometer. This can mean taking colder showers, turning down the heat at home or, best of all, spending more quality time outside. This November, grab a hat and a heavy sweater and build that winter endurance by getting out there and staying active with these free (or mostly free) events. Even better – try knitting your own hat!

Engage with Civic Processes

Take a Guided Tour of Norwegian Parliament (Stortinget)

Sign up to join this English language tour of Norwegian parliament, “the supreme arena for political debate and decision-making in the Kingdom of Norway.” If you haven’t been yet, this tour is well worth your time! The inside of this building is just as beautiful as the outside, and you’ll learn a lot about governmental processes. Registration is required. 

When: Tuesday, 14 November, 13.00-14.40
Where: Prinsens gate 26
Learn more here.

Join in at Eidsvolls Plass

Check out the weekly calendar to find out what’s happening at Eidsvolls plass this month. From anniversary markings of historic events to protests revolving around current ones, gatherings here are a great way to show support for issues that mean something to you. Everything at Eidsvolls plass happens within view of parliament, with the Royal Palace at one’s back. This is the place to speak up and be heard (and anyone over the age of 18 has a right to reserve a time here).

When: See calendar for details; use filter “markeringer på Eidsvolls plass.”
Where: Eidsvolls Plass, outside Stortinget

Get Crafty

Join the Tøyen Knitting Club

When the weather turns cold, many Norwegians start reaching for their knitting needles. Whether you’re working on your first scarf or your fifteenth sweater, knitting is a great way to unwind and socialize. Bring your current project and head over to Tøyen library (every other Thursday night) to share projects and chat with fellow knitters. All levels welcome, no registration required!

When: Every other Thursday, 9 & 23 November, 19.00-21.00
Where: Deichman Tøyen
Learn more here. 

Learn Plant Embroidery for Beginners

Learn how to embroider leaves and flowers with Justyna Skowronek from Plants on People.This course (in English) will cover simple and elegant designs that will help make your own creative compositions. You can also learn techniques for drawing your own designs. No previous experience required, but you must register. Materials are provided; you are also encouraged to bring along an article of clothing you might want to embroider in the future.

When: Saturday, 18 November, 11.00-16.00
Where: Deichman Bjørvika
Learn more here.

Find Your Game

Participate in a Chess Tournament

Whether you’re just learning the rules of chess or hoping to be the next Magnus Carlsen, chess can be a stimulating way to pass the time. This monthly chess tournament is open to all ages and levels of experience. Bring a friend or come prepared to meet your match! 

When: Monday, 20 November, 18.00 -20.00
Where: Deichman Torshov
Learn more here.

Get Together with Gamers 

If you enjoy gaming and socializing, check out this group, which meets the first Monday of every month. Popular games in the past have included quite the variety: Super Smash Bros Ultimate, Mario Kart,Tekken 7, Street Fighter V, as well as board/card games like: Exploding Kittens, Ticket to Ride, and Magic the Gathering. You’re encouraged to bring your own games as well.

When: Monday, 20 November, 18.00-23.30
Where: Tilt
Learn more here.

Enjoy Værsågod at the Norway Clown Festival 2023

Come watch a free evening of fun and exploration when the four-day Norway Clown Festival kicks off on November 2nd at Salt. Patrick van den Boom, founder of Clownschool International and long term member of the Hospital Clowns and Klokkeklovnene, will host this enlightening evening of clowning around. 

When: Thursday, 2 November, 17.00
Where: Salt art & music Pyramiden
Learn more here.

Join the Festivities

Celebrate Day of the Dead at Mestizo

Observe Day of the Dead at Casa Mestizo with an altar from Jonas Roman and lively music from Fernando Jauregui. The Pachamama bar will be open for business as well. Jonas will lead a ceremony in connection with the powerful symbolism that marks this day. Celebrations will take place in Norwegian and Spanish. All are welcome! 

When: Thursday, 2 November, 19.00
Where: Mestizo Language and Culture Center
Learn more here.

Attend a Christmas Swap Market

Join Sappho's Friends at this environmentally friendly market geared towards the Christmas season. If you need a gift or holiday outfit, this barter encounter is a great way to save money and reuse. Bring a quality item of your own to exchange, if you can, but this is not required. You do not need to register for this event – just show up!

When: Thursday, 30 November, 16.00-18.30
Where: Deichman Torshov
Learn more here.

Visit Christmas in Winterland Market

If you’re looking for an idyllic Christmas atmosphere, then you’ll want to head to Oslo sentrum for this wonderland experience. There are market stalls, eating places, rides, storytelling, and free-skating (with skate rentals available). The holiday lighting is magical and, last year at least, there were animatronic talking moose, which isn’t something you get to see often. 

When: Opens 11 November and runs through 31 December (check website for hours)
Where: Oslo Sentrum/Karl Johans gate
Learn more here.