Cultural Calendar: November
Tips and tricks to make Norwegian winter feel less scary
Are you the type of person who, as soon as the -ber months approach, just wishes to crawl up in bed and never leave the house? Or are you someone who cannot get enough of yellow leaves, foggy mornings, and early sunsets? Either way, you should try at least one of these activities before the holiday season sneaks up on all of us.
So buckle up, remember to take your daily fish oil, and get ready for the ultimate list of things to do in Oslo on chilly November days.
Queer & Trans Football
There is nothing better than a hot shower after a workout in the crispy, cold weather. If you are queer, trans, or an ally (!), check out QSSC and Sappho’s friends queer & trans football. Open to all levels, genders, and sexualities, and full of breaks to socialize, whether in the sun or in the rain (so dress appropriately).
When: 18th November, 18.00-20.00
Where: Hallénparken, Christies gate 40
Price: free
Read more: here
Chamber Music Week
If you love to spend cold, rainy days indoors but not necessarily in your bed, this is the event for you. The Chamber Orchestra of the Norwegian Academy of Music welcomes you to listen to music from the 18th century, so you can finally impress your classical music-obsessed friends. It is a free event for students, but make sure to reserve a ticket!
When: 7th November, 19.30
Where: The Norwegian Academy of Music, The Lindeman Hall
Price: Free for students
Read more: Academy Chamber Orchestra's concert here, find all Chamber Music Week concerts here
Late Night at Munch
November darkness calls for sparkly dresses and great music, both of which you can find at MUNCH on a night when the museum transforms into a club while also inaugurating a new exhibition. In case dancing is not your thing, there will also be a reserved space for those who prefer crafting to dance moves. But it doesn´t end here, later in the night, you´ll get the chance to join the afterparty at the scenic bar on the 13th floor of the museum.
When: 14th November, 20.00-3.00
Where: Munch Museum
Price: Free
Read more: here
Ut på tur, aldri sur
The advice Norwegians share the most on how to survive the days getting darker and colder is to spend some time outside, no matter the weather. A short walk around Sognsvann or along the Akerselva, a scenic hike in the beautiful marka, or, why not, cross-country skiing if early snow comes, could really go a long way in making winter more exciting and feeling closer to Nordmenn.
When: Any day weather and temperature work, but make sure to dress appropriately
Where: Everywhere in the country
Price: nature is free, but remember to always take care of it!
Read more: rent free outdoor equipment here, plan your hike here, and learn about outdoor safety here
Jul i Vinterland
It’s beginning to look a lot like…Christmas market season! In Norway, the holiday spirit starts spreading in early November already, with cozy lights appearing on every building and the Christmas Market taking over Karl Johan.
When: Every day from 8th November until 4th January
Where: Spikersuppa, Karl Johan
Price: Free to walk around, but you can buy slightly pricey drinks or homemade gifts
Read more: here
If none of these activities manages to drag you out of the little cocoon you created in your bed, I respect that. Put on that autumn-y show, light up a couple of candles, and make sure to get your daily vitamin intake while fully integrating in the Norwegian hyggelig culture.
