Experience Sami culture in Finnmark
The entire population of Sami in Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia is believed to be around 80,000, with Norway housing almost half of them. Northern Norway, particularly the county of Finnmark, is home to the great majority of settlements. However, there are Sami communities as far south as Trndelag. Many people believe that Sami customs solely consist of colorful clothes, traditional handcraft goods, and lassoing reindeer. But the Sami legacy may also be seen in rap music, modern architecture, contemporary art, and cutting-edge design. The contemporary Sami may be both an award-winning filmmaker and a snowmobile reindeer herder. They may, nevertheless, have a strong connection with nature.
When visiting Northern Norway, you may also learn about the Sami way of life. Camp beneath the northern lights in a traditional lavvo (Sami tent), get up up and personal with reindeer, or visit a Sami art show. If you want to understand more about Sami culture and traditions, attending a Sami festival is a fantastic (and enjoyable!) way to start. The worldwide indigenous festival Riddu Riu Festivàla in Manndalen, Troms, attracts artists and festivalgoers from all over the world every July. Riddu Riu is a festival unlike any other, with music beneath the midnight sun and a diverse range of activities.
In Troms, Sami Week celebrates everything Sami in connection with their national day on February 6. Try reindeer racing, joik, or enjoy music, discussions, and ample amounts of the traditional food bidos. Also, don't miss the national lasso tossing championship! The Sami Easter Festival in Kautokeino has become a major element of their culture, attracting families and people of all ages. The schedule includes concerts and exhibitions, as well as entertaining events such as scooter cross and reindeer racing. Other events to attend include Alta's Sami Music Week, Tana's Winter Festival, Karasjok's Sami Easter Festival, Gállogieddi's Márkomeannu, and Lebesby's Festival Skábma.
