Imagine a place where clocks are meaningless, and you can mow your lawn at 4 a.m. without raising eyebrows. Welcome to Sommarøy, Norway’s ‘time-free’ island.
Nestled north of the Arctic Circle, Sommarøy experiences 69 days of continuous sunlight every summer. This unique phenomenon led its 350 residents to propose abolishing traditional timekeeping, allowing them to live by natural rhythms instead.
Local leader Kjell Ove Hveding spearheaded the movement, stating, “Our goal is to provide full flexibility, 24/7. If you want to cut the lawn at 4 a.m., then you do it.” The idea was to free the community from the constraints of conventional schedules, embracing the endless daylight.
However, the initiative faced skepticism. Critics questioned the practicality of a ‘time-free’ zone, especially concerning work, school, and transportation schedules. Moreover, it was later revealed that the campaign was a publicity stunt orchestrated by Visit Norway to boost tourism.
Despite the controversy, the concept sparked global conversations about our relationship with time. While the ‘time-free’ zone remains symbolic, Sommarøy’s residents continue to enjoy their unique lifestyle, reminding us that sometimes, it’s okay to let go of the clock.
