[1][2] The event is central to Norwegian society inasmuch as it is viewed as the most famous and trusted charity fundraiser in the country.

[4] The beneficiary of each year's event is decided by a fund-raising committee at NRK, which also receives detailed follow-up reports from the selected charity on the spending of the raised money.

Charities vary, with causes including combating poverty, providing healthcare, clearing minefields and munitions, protecting women, and the environment.

[4] Funds have also been earmarked to assist displaced persons in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Burundi, Angola, and Uganda (1998), and refugees from wars in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Somalia, the Palestinian territories, and Colombia (2010).

NRK also hosts a live auction of various items and experiences, with proceeds also going to that year's selected charity.