May Events Bergen 2025
Discovering upcoming events can feel overwhelming, so we’ve put together a curated list of some of the top happenings in Bergen this May. It’s a vibrant month filled with everything from lively festivals to the celebration of Norway’s Constitution Day. Enjoy!
Table Of Contents
Festivals & Conventions
Bergen Tattoo Convention
📅 09-11.05
📌 USF Verftet
💸 306/514 NOK
The Bergen Tattoo Convention 2025, now in its fourteenth year, takes place from May 9th to 11th at USF Verftet. Talented tattoo artists from around the world will showcase their skills. Enjoy live tattooing, music and merch. Experience the vibrant atmosphere, meet amazing artists, and maybe even get a new tattoo!
Pint of Science Festival
📅 19-21.05
📌 Litteraturhuset & Kulturhuset
⏰ 19:00
💸 Free
Pint of Science is a global festival that brings scientists out of the lab and into your local pub, café, or community space to share their research in a fun and accessible way—no background knowledge needed. They have a couple of events at Litteraturhuset and Kulturhuset this year.
Bergen International Festival
📅 21.05-04.06
📌 Different places around town
Get ready for an unforgettable cultural experience at the Bergen International Festival (Festspillene i Bergen), Scandinavia’s largest festival for music and performing arts. Now in its 73rd year, the festival offers a diverse program of music, theatre, opera, dance, literary events, and family-friendly activities.
The festival features a wide range of events, from free performances at iconic locations like Torgallmenningen to paid performances at some of Bergen’s most stunning venues. Whether you’re enjoying a concert in the historic Håkonshallen, a spectacular show at the Grieghallen, or one of the many other incredible spaces around the city, there’s something for everyone.
With an extensive program filled with world-class performances for both adults and children, we highly recommend checking out the full schedule on the festival’s website. There’s so much to choose from, you won’t want to miss it!
Bergen Street Food Festival 2025
📅 22-24.05
📌 Snekkerbrakken
💸 Free entrance. You pay for the food and drinks you buy.
🎟️ Info
The annual Bergen Street Food Festival is back at Snekkerbrakken, right next to the beautiful Bergenhus Fortress! Get ready for several days filled with mouthwatering food and tasty snacks from around the globe. Enjoy great drinks and soak up that unbeatable festival atmosphere. Have a blast!
Nattjazz
📅 23-31.05
📌 USF Verftet
Nattjazz is a thrilling jazz festival running from May 23rd to 31st at USF Verftet. With one venue and four unique stages, this is the perfect place for jazz lovers to experience incredible live music late into the night.
In the early 1970s, the Bergen International Festival ended too early for many, so the Bergen Jazzforum created Nattjazz—a festival that keeps the music going well into the night.
Prepare for fantastic performances by an incredible lineup of talented artists and bands. This year’s Nattjazz promises to be one of the best yet, with a variety of jazz styles that will captivate audiences throughout the week.
Don’t miss out—check out all the amazing artists performing this year and get ready for an unforgettable musical experience!
Concerts
Romeo og Julie
📅 02.05
📌 Grieghallen
⏰ 19:30
💸 100-625 NOK
Inspired by Shakespeare’s play in 1827, Hector Berlioz wrote one of his most important works—his third symphony, Romeo and Juliet. Through expressive orchestral music, he tells the story of the famous lovers. It’s believed that Berlioz dedicated the piece to his own “Juliet,” as well as to two major influences in his life: Shakespeare and Beethoven. Experience this powerful symphony live at Grieghallen, performed by the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra.
Nicolas Leirtrøs Action Now!
📅 02.05
📌 USF Verftet
⏰ 21:00
💸 150-250 NOK
Action Now! is the latest project from Nicolas Leirtrø — a bold new quartet uniting improvisers and musicians across genres and generations. This is not your average jazz concert. With explosive energy, groove-driven compositions, and strong roots in free jazz, the band breaks down musical boundaries at every turn. Together, they dive into a vibrant mix of written material, spontaneous improvisation, and visual art, creating a dynamic and unpredictable live experience.
Bergen Elvisfest
📅 08.05-10.05
📌 Ole Bull Scene
💸 655-725
Calling all Elvis fans! This May, get ready for Elvis Fest 2025 at Ole Bull Scene, right in the heart of Bergen. The Bergen Elvis Fest Band will take the stage alongside a lineup of incredible artists from both Norway and the U.S.—some returning favorites, others exciting new names. Join us for an unforgettable celebration of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll!
Mozart, Beethoven og Rossini
📅 09.05
📌 Håkonshallen
⏰ 19:30
💸 140-395
Experience an evening of unforgettable classical music in one of Bergen’s most iconic venues—Håkonshallen. This stunning medieval hall sets the stage for a unique chamber orchestra concert featuring two masterpieces of the classical repertoire.
Violinist Alexander Kagan takes the spotlight as soloist in Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 4, composed in Salzburg in 1775. Written when Mozart was just 19 years old, this concerto is one of at least five he created during a prolific period from 1773 to 1776—works that quickly captured the hearts of audiences.
The program also features Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, first performed in Vienna in 1813 to great acclaim. The symphony opens with a slow, ceremonial introduction and builds toward a final movement bursting with energy and joy.
Don’t miss this exceptional concert in a venue as grand as the music itself. A truly special evening for lovers of classical music!
EDEL
📅 09.05
📌 USF Verftet
⏰ 21:00
💸 240 NOK
EDEL is a rising soul-rock duo from Stavanger, known for powerful vocal harmonies and dynamic interplay. Made up of 21-year-olds Vera Ottesen and Malin Stokka, the duo is set to release their debut album Sambucus on March 28, followed by their first major Norwegian tour in April and May. At their Bergen concert at USF Verftet, they’ll be joined by a full band. Sambucus blends intimate melodies with energetic guitar riffs, exploring themes of personal growth and inner strength. Praised by critics and tipped as one of 2025’s breakthrough acts, EDEL has already built a strong following with standout live performances and acclaimed singles like “Full Bloom.”
Funk for Forest
📅 10.05
📌 USF Verftet
⏰ 22:00
💸 220-275 NOK
Get ready for an unforgettable night of high-energy, danceable grooves at USF Verftet! This explosive eight-piece band from Oslo brings a unique blend of jungle funk, disco, and afrobeat that has been lighting up dance floors for the past two years. With tight funk guitar, deep basslines, fiery percussion, and infectious horn riffs, their all-instrumental sound is guaranteed to get you moving. Expect pure, sweaty, feel-good dance music!
Misty Coast
📅 10.05
📌 Kulturhuset
⏰ 20:00
💸 250-280 NOK
Misty Coast has toured across Japan, the UK, and Europe since their 2017 debut, earning a Spellemann nomination and widespread critical acclaim. Their dreamy sound blends bold basslines, catchy guitar hooks, and ethereal vocals—drawing comparisons to Cocteau Twins and PJ Harvey. In 2023, they released their fourth album Nevereverending and a rare 10-inch EP. Live, the duo is joined by drummer Eirik Kirkemyr, delivering a captivating and immersive show.
Cascada
📅 15.05
📌 USF Verftet
⏰ 21:00
💸 599 NOK
Cascada is a German Eurodance group famous for their high-energy beats and infectious melodies. Led by vocalist Natalie Horler, the group rose to international stardom in the mid-2000s with hits like Everytime We Touch, Evacuate the Dancefloor, and Miracle. Get ready to dance!
Martin Hagfors (+support: August Selnes)
📅 15.05
📌 Kulturhuset
⏰ 20:00
💸 250 NOK
After nearly a decade away from clubs and festivals, acclaimed Norwegian songwriter Martin Hagfors returns for a solo tour. Known for his distinctive voice and rich catalogue, Hagfors will perform songs from London Dry—his acclaimed new album with Aslag Haugen—as well as material from his work with HGH, Home Groan, and past solo records. In 2025, he’ll also release Folk-A-Dots in collaboration with Valkyrien Allstars, reinterpreting highlights from his songwriting career.
Support: August Selnes
Armed with guitar and harmonica, Selnes blends timeless Norwegian song traditions with fresh energy, drawing inspiration from Ole Paus, Bob Dylan, and Alf Prøysen.
Kings of Convenience
📅 20.05
📌 USF Verftet
⏰ 20:00
💸 594 NOK
Don’t miss the chance to experience the soothing sounds of Kings of Convenience, the beloved indie duo from Bergen. Known for their beautiful, laid-back melodies and gentle harmonies, Erlend Øye and Eirik Glambek Bøe have been crafting timeless indie folk music since 1999.
After a brief hiatus between 2018 and 2021, the duo returned with their acclaimed fourth album, Peace or Love, released in 2021. With a discography that spans over two decades, Kings of Convenience have become known for their ability to create intimate, emotional soundscapes that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide.
This concert is a great opportunity to hear their music live. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, this evening promises a truly special atmosphere.
Kryptograf + Special guests: Magmakammer
📅 24.05
📌 Kulturhuset
⏰ 21:00
💸 320 NOK
On Saturday, May 24, Kryptograf takes over Kulturhuset in Bergen to celebrate the release of their third album, Kryptonomicon. Since forming in 2019, the band has become one of Norway’s most exciting acts in heavy, psychedelic hard rock—blending the spirit of the ’60s and ’70s with a modern edge. With rave reviews at home and abroad, tours alongside Spidergawd and Hällas, and appearances at major festivals, Kryptograf has built a solid reputation as a powerful live band.
Stress Angel + Inculter + supp: Wrath
📅 28.05
📌 Hulen
⏰ 20:00
💸 300-350 NOK
Get ready for a night of raw energy at Hulen, Bergen’s legendary underground venue.
Stress Angel (NYC) brings their brutal blend of death and thrash metal, with dark, relentless riffs and eerie melodies. Don’t miss this rare chance to catch the explosive trio live in Norway!
Inculter, from Fusa, are one of Norway’s top thrash acts. With three albums and a global following, their latest release Morbid Origin adds a melodic twist to their signature black-thrash sound.
Wrath fuses the intensity of prog-metal with the grit of grunge, delivering hypnotic, heavy, and emotionally charged performances rooted in myth, nature, and the human psyche.
The show takes place at Hulen—an iconic venue built into a mountainside bunker, now a beloved student-run concert space since 1969.
Undertakers Circus
📅 30.05
📌 Kulturhuset
⏰ 20:00
💸 450 NOK
Legendary 12-piece band Undertakers Circus from Lillestrøm is coming to Bergen on May 30! Formed in the late ’60s and known for their politically charged lyrics, the band blends prog, soul, and rock—always driven by their signature horn section. Fifty years after their cult classic album Ragnarock, they’re still going strong with several original members, led by longtime frontman Thor Greni. Don’t miss this rare chance to experience a unique piece of Norwegian music history live on stage.
Shows & Plays
Jimmy Carr: Laughs Funny
📅 01.05
📌 Grieghallen
⏰ 19:00 & 22:00
💸 555-760 NOK
Jimmy Carr, the brilliant master of dark humor and razor-sharp punchlines, is coming to Grieghallen for three unforgettable shows. Known for his quick wit and fearless style, Carr always delivers a night of laughter you won’t forget.
There are only a few tickets left for the two shows in May, so act fast if you’re hoping to catch him then! And if you miss out, don’t worry—he’ll also be back for a show in June. Keep an eye out for potential resale tickets for the May dates as well.
Get ready for an evening of unfiltered, unapologetic comedy with one of the best in the business!
Russell Peters – RELAX World Tour
📅 03.05
📌 Grieghallen
⏰ 20:00
💸 549-661 NOK
Russell Peters began his stand-up career at the age of 19 in his hometown of Toronto. He rose to international fame in 2004 with his breakthrough performance on the CTV show Comedy Now!. Since then, he has continued to break audience records at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden and the Sydney Opera House. In addition to his success on stage, Peters has earned accolades as a host, producer, and actor. Now based in both Las Vegas and Los Angeles, he uses comedy to explore racial, ethnic, class, and cultural stereotypes—shining a light on cultural differences while tapping into universal human experiences.
Jake Lambert: The Sunshine Kid
📅 30.05
📌 Ole Bull Scene
⏰ 20:30
💸 474 NOK
Comedian Jake Lambert is bringing his first international stand-up tour to town! Known as “a joke machine” (The Telegraph), Jake’s show dives into everyday life, the fear of being normal, and our obsession with asking dog owners about breeds. With over 150 million views online, a spot on Michael McIntyre’s world tour, and an upcoming appearance on Live at the Apollo, this is a show you don’t want to miss.
Other
Mountain Yoga at Ulriken
📅 4/10/18.05
📌 Ulriken
⏰ 11:00-12:00 / 12:00-13:00
💸 140-160 NOK
Experience mountain yoga at the top of Ulriken, in collaboration with Bergen Fjell Yoga—an unforgettable session in the city’s most scenic outdoor setting.
Classes are weather-dependent and open to all levels, with exercises adapted to suit all bodies and conditions. Dress for the weather and bring your own yoga mat. A fleece blanket, hat, and gloves are also recommended if it’s chilly.
Welcome to one of Bergen’s most unique yoga experiences—on the rooftop of the city!
A Night at the Aquarium
📅 09.05-10.05
📌 Akvariet i Bergen
⏰ 17:00-07:30
💸 910-980 NOK
This May, enjoy a one-of-a-kind night at the Bergen Aquarium! Pack your sleeping bags and get ready for an unforgettable sleepover adventure with your kids. The evening includes a tasty dinner and a special behind-the-scenes tour led by the aquarium’s knowledgeable staff. It’s a magical experience your family will talk about for a long time.
Yoga
📅 10.05
📌 Kulturhuset
⏰ 12:00
💸 236 NOK
Feeling worn out from all the sightseeing? Need a peaceful pause between the excitement of your Bergen adventure? Take a well-deserved break with a soothing yoga and meditation session at Kulturhuset. This gentle practice blends yin and yang yoga—restorative poses to calm the nervous system and light movement to awaken the body. It’s all about slowing down, finding your breath, and recharging both body and mind.
Bergen Vinmesse
📅 10.05
📌 Grieghallen
⏰ 13:00
💸 495 NOK
Don’t miss the Wine Fair at Grieghallen on Saturday, May 10th!
As part of Bergen Vinfest, this grand tasting event is a must for wine enthusiasts. Sample a wide variety of delicious wines from around the world, meet passionate producers, and maybe even discover your new favorite bottle. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just curious, the Grieghallen Wine Fair offers a welcoming and flavorful experience for all.
17th of May-Celebrations in Bergen
📅 17.05
May 17th is Norway’s Constitution Day. It’s a major celebration for all Norwegians, and cities like Bergen truly come alive on this day. Events take place throughout the day all across the city.
For families with children, it’s common to stay near their child’s school, as there are often special events for kids. However, many also head to the city center, where you’ll find lively parades, delicious food, and a fair. On this day, you’ll see many Norwegians dressed in the beautiful national attire, the “Bunad.”
You’ll also hear brass band music and the unique Buekorpset of Bergen. Students and young adults often celebrate with champagne breakfasts, and high school seniors celebrate the end of their 13 years of school with the Norwegian russetid festivities.
May 17th is a fantastic day for people of all ages, even though it’s often called “Children’s Day,” with a major focus on fun activities for the little ones. Many people enjoy eating sausages and ice cream, and you’ll see plenty of Norwegian flags with people shouting “hurrah!”
There are numerous parades across the city, in every neighborhood, but the main procession by Bryggen is a highlight if you’re in the city center.
If you plan to dine out, it’s a good idea to do some research beforehand. It’s common for Norwegians to book tables at restaurants and bars in advance for meals and drinks during the festivities. Walk-ins can be difficult as people often make reservations well ahead of time.
May 17th offers a truly special experience for tourists in Bergen. The city comes alive with a wide variety of events throughout the day, so we recommend checking out this link for detailed information and a full schedule of all the exciting celebrations happening around town!
And if there’s one phrase you should learn for the day, it’s how to say “happy birthday” in Norwegian—because that’s what everyone says to each other! In Norwegian, it’s: “Gratulerer med dagen”!
Bunadsboogie
📅 17.05
📌 USF Verftet
⏰ 11:00-19:00
💸 849++
Age limit: 20 years.
Get ready for an unforgettable 17th May celebration at this year’s Bunadsboogie at USF Verftet! The event will be held in both Hallen and Bakgården, where you can enjoy great vibes, delicious food stalls, bars, and plenty of outdoor seating. And don’t worry about the weather—if it rains, both areas are covered!
Get ready for a fantastic mix of tradition, fun, and a lively atmosphere. With live DJ sets, fun activities and shows, this is the perfect way to celebrate Norway’s National Day in style. To guarantee a spot, make sure to book a table in advance. Explore the various ticket options available, based on the size of your group.
With outdoor seating, plenty of activities, and entertainment all around, Bunadsboogie is the place to be for a day of celebration and joy!
17th of May-Celebrations at Ulriken
📅 17.05
📌 Ulriken
⏰ 10:00-23:00
💸 From 799 NOK
Celebrate Norway’s Constitution Day with a unique and memorable dining experience atop Bergen! It’s a special way to enjoy the 17th of May festivities—good food, great views, and a festive atmosphere await.
Start the day with a delicious 17th of May breakfast buffet from 10:00 to 12:00, followed by three seatings of a festive 3-course menu:
– 13:00–15:00
– 16:00–18:00
– 19:00–21:00 (guests can stay until the gondola closes)
Each seating lasts 2 hours.
Poetry Night
📅 20.05
📌 Litteraturhuset
⏰ 20:00-21:30
💸 Free
🎟️ Info
Check out this open mic poetry night—open to all who love words! Share a poem of your own or one by a favorite writer, in any language. Or simply come to enjoy the performances. The evening is hosted by slam poet Henrikke Meidell and multidisciplinary artist and poet A Frances Kormpala.
Book launch! In Cod We Trust: Living the Norwegian Dream
📅 23.05
📌 Boksalongen
⏰ 19:00-20:30
💸 Free
Join this book launch with American author Eric Dregni, presenting his humorous and heartfelt memoir In Cod We Trust. Raised in Minnesota’s Norwegian-American community, Dregni returned to Norway on a Fulbright Fellowship, where he explored his roots, navigated culture shocks, and welcomed the birth of his son. His stories—ranging from rakfisk dinners to unexpected family discoveries—paint a vivid picture of life in Norway. Dregni is a freelance writer and English professor at Concordia University in St. Paul.
Pub Choir
📅 24.05
📌 Ole Bull Scene
⏰ 14:00-16:00
💸 225 NOK
Pub choir is a fresh concept where anyone can join in and sing as part of a one-day, large choir. Participants usually learn a popular song and sing together for a couple of hours. Singing with new people? It’s a fantastic way to create a fun and memorable experience! It offers all the excitement of being in a choir, but without the long-term commitment. Feel free to bring a friend—or come on your own!
3/4/7 Mountain Hike in Bergen
📅 25.05
💸 150-400 NOK
Join Bergen og Hordaland Turlag for the 3/4/7 Mountain Hike—an unforgettable trek across Bergen’s scenic city mountains!
Choose between the full 7-mountain route (35 km with 2400 meters of elevation), the 4-mountain option, or the shorter 3-mountain hike. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of the city and coastline, lively atmosphere, and great company—this is the day the whole city hits the trails!
The hike includes a mix of paved roads, gravel paths, and rugged mountain trails, offering both challenge and reward in equal measure.
Be sure to do your own research in advance to stay safe and well-prepared for your trip.
Live jazz at Fløyen
📅 31.05
📌 Fløirestauranten
⏰ 12:00-15:00
💸 Free
Head to the top of the city and enjoy Bergen’s best view with live jazz at Fløirestauranten’s spacious outdoor terrace!
Grab a drink from Lykkeboden or order food and beverages from Brasseriet while you relax on the 600 m² terrace that surrounds the restaurant building. No reservations—just stop by. From 12:00 to 15:00, enjoy atmospheric live jazz led by Mads Berven, with sets starting every hour.
For more information and tips on Bergen, check out our archive.