Visit Santa’s Hometown in Finnish Lapland

In the northernmost region of Finland, Lapland is the place to be to see a real winter wonderland. Known as the home of Santa Claus, visitors flock to Lapland to soak up the snow, check out the Northern Lights, and to see wild reindeer. There is really something for everyone year-round in this beautiful European Landscape.

Santa Claus is Here

Ho, Ho, Ho! Perfect for a holiday adventure, visit Santa Claus Village in the capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi. This locale is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus. When you arrive to this picturesque town, you are greeted with the holiday spirit all year round. The delineation of the arctic circle runs right through the village, and you can even receive a certificate to commemorate this once in a lifetime experience. And of course, you can’t go all this way and not meet Santa and his reindeer friends! Check out his office hours so you can meet the big guy yourself and tell him whether you have been naughty or nice.

WAY more than Eight…

There are more reindeer than people in Lapland, so it is no wonder that these arctic caribou are a big draw to this winter wonderland. All semi-domesticated, reindeer are an important part of Lappish life, especially for the indigenous people of Lapland, the Sámi. Visiting a Sámi village allows you to absorb the importance of these regal creatures both currently and historically. Reindeer drawn sleigh rides are available through the forest, but always remember to keep a safe distance from reindeer in the wild!

Aurora Borealis Lights

Take a relaxing moment out of the excitement of Santa’s village beneath the Northern Lights. Scientifically know as Aurora Borealis, this epic light show is visible two thirds of the year in Finnish Lapland—from August through April. Science explains that this phenomenon is caused by solar winds in our atmosphere, and in Lapland you can spend admiring the beauty from some epic accommodations.

EPIC Snow Sports

Lapland is an outdoor adventurer’s dreamscape. All year round, find a plethora of wilderness activities to partake in, but the winter months create the perfect landscape for some epic snow sports. Whether you ski, snowboard, ice climb, or snowshoe, there are activities of varying difficulties available.

It’s Not All About the Winter…

While the winter promises truly picturesque landscapes in Lapland, during the summer months this land comes alive with the Midnight Sun. Summer is short and sweet in Finland, but the sun makes itself known all day and all night long. Winter can be harsh, and this marvel is a beautiful escape from the chilly darkness. Try out a night-time swim or boat for a truly singular experience.