6 Things To Do In Finland This Winter

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Finland is the ultimate festive wonderland if you are looking for a place to get yourself ready for Christmas. During the winter months, Finland is covered in thick snow and has plenty of amazing places to visit, from national parks, to Santa’s home, to bustling cities filled with festive smells and sights.

So the question is, what to do in Finland in winter? Well, here are some great ideas for you…

1.Santa Claus Village

This village is underneath the Arctic Circle, and takes you away from the real world and into Santa’s. You’ll find yourself in the midst of everything festive as you bake with Mrs Claus, meet the man himself and even attend elf school. If you weren’t feeling festive before, you will be now.

2. Kemi

If you love the snow, then a visit to the village of Kemi will be just the thing for you. You’ll be able to make towering snowmen, have fun in the snow with your skis, or even go sledding with the kids. It’s like the ultimate snowy wonderland for you and your family.

3. Lapland

Santa lives in Lapland, and you will find no shortage of the festive spirit visiting the northernmost region of the country. Reindeer roam wild in the forests, and you will be able to ride and feed them too. At Santa’s grotto, you will be able to experience a magical sleigh ride and plenty of festive fun.

4. The Festival of St Lucia

For those of you who haven’t heard of this festival: it occurs every December 13th and celebrates the life of St Lucia. St Lucia was a Christian girl who became a martyr in 304. The festival celebrates her life with a girl wearing a crown of candles. Everyone parade through the streets and eats great food to celebrate the life of this young saint.

5. Christmas Markets, Helsinki

The Christmas markets are one of the most festive places to be in December. They happen all over Europe, but in Finland the most impressive is in the capital, Helsinki. In this city, an ice skating rink is open to the public throughout the winter, and snow covers the entire landscape. You’ll be able to walk around and smell various cheeses, meats and sweets cooking on the street; as well as warm your cockles with a mug of mulled wine. Walk around and do some Christmas shopping as you enjoy the full immersive festive experience.

6. Turku

If it is an old-fashioned, quirky village experience you are after, then Turku is the best place to visit at this time of the year. Turku is not only the former capital of Finland, but it is also the oldest city in the entire country. As you walk through the cobbled streets and thin alleyways, you’ll be able to visit tonnes of independent shop owners selling unique pieces and wears. The whole city becomes blanketed in snow during the colder months, so you’ll be able to fully experience walking through a winter wonderland.