Colors of Larvik - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Larvik is a very beautiful modern town, which does not prevent its inhabitants from preserving rich cultural and historical traditions. The townspeople are distinguished by a very restrained and sincere character, due to which they may seem rather rude to some foreigners. In fact, such personality features shouldn't be taken as aggression - it is just not customary to demonstrate emotions among local people, especially in public places. Flattery and lies are also considered to be among the worst features, so locals answer truthfully literally any question.

An important part of the regional culture is dozens of various traditional crafts. Walking around the city, one can notice that shops offering yarn and knitting accessories are quite widespread here. Beautiful knitted clothes necessarily made of natural wool is one of the main attributes of the townspeople.

Wood carving and various types of artistic craft also remain relevant in spite of the modern rhythm of life. The variety of traditional crafts can be appreciated not only in museums - even restaurants in Larvik can bring a lot of interesting discoveries. Some restaurants representing traditional regional cuisine are decorated with wonderful handicrafts. Utensils are equally special here, knives and forks are often adorned with elaborate carvings. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Skilled blacksmiths have been living in the region for many years, and their work is still in demand. In gift shops, you can choose forged candlesticks, decor items, and even jewelry. There was a time when local blacksmiths even made silver crowns and brooches for local noblemen, and forged buttons were considered to be the pinnacle of their skills. Despite the fact that high-quality jewelry workshops are widespread in Larvik as well, many still go for unique jewelry to local blacksmiths. In the 18th century, panel painting started spreading in the city. Today, beautiful wooden panels are among the most popular souvenirs.

Local people treat nature in all its manifestations with great reverence. Due to the harsh climate, it's not easy to keep city parks well-groomed, so ordinary people often take part in their improvement and cleaning. At any time of the year, outdoor recreation remains a favorite entertainment for Larvik residents. If in the summer they usually go picnicking or fishing, in winter there comes a period of skis and other winter sports.

It would be especially interesting to visit the town during the Christmas and New Year holidays when you can fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. On the last day of the outgoing year, it is customary for local residents to attend church in order to receive blessings for the coming year. On New Year's Eve, there is always a lot of people on city streets, the most significant event is a traditional fireworks show. Locals have a very interesting tradition: on New Year's Eve, they give boxes of matches to their relatives and friends. They have become a kind of symbol of warmth, happiness, and comfort for the townspeople. Today, very beautiful gift sets of matches are sold at local fairs and shops for the New Year.

The smallest residents of the city believe that a goat brings them gifts on the New Year. They put a few ears of wheat in the shoes to appease it, and in the morning they find the desired gifts instead. Goats are considered to be among the most revered animals, they are associated with a beautiful legend.

Hundreds of years ago, King Olaf II found a wounded goat in the rocks and saved it. He brought the animal to his palace where the goat was cured and soon released into the wild. For many years, the grateful animal brought to the palace rare healing herbs that grow high in the mountains.

Larvik is not deprived of modern cultural trends - today the city is the venue for famous music and art festivals. Local residents are big fans of jazz. Famous musical bands perform here not only during festivals but also on ordinary days. A contemporary music festival called The Stavern Festival is held here every year in July. It is regularly participated by musical bands of world renown. The festival is also open to talented novice performers. You can enjoy musical performances not only at concert venues but also in bars where jazz bands are often invited.