NOBEL DAY

Today is December 6, which means that 'Nobel Day' is just around the corner (December 10). This day is also significant for two other reasons. The Peace Prize is awarded in the Norwegian capital of Oslo AND it marks the name day of Malin. FYI: The Peace Prize is awarded in Oslo in accordance with the wishes of Alfred Nobel. When he wrote his will concerning the distribution of the prizes, Norway and Sweden were linked in a Union which was dissolved in 1905.

Back to 'Nobel Day'... This is the high point of a week of speeches, conferences and receptions. Years of hard work are rewarded with a medal from the Swedish king, followed by a gala banquet — for 1,300 people.

The Nobel Prize Award Ceremony takes place at the Concert Hall in Stockholm. The ceremony is a ritual where every minutes is planned by the Nobel Foundation, the host of the event. Every prize winner receives a generous amount. Each prize totals SEK 10 million (USD 1.47 million).

The day ends with the large Nobel Banquet at the Stockholm City Hall, which is festively decorated with torches, candles and flower arrangements. The flowers are an annual gift from the city of San Remo, Italy, where Alfred Nobel died in 1896. Who knew?

It is always so fun to look in the paper the morning after the big event. The women are being judged on their formal attire. 'Formal attire' usually means a floor-length gown. The men wear white tie and a black tailcoat. Just thought you should know...