Visiting Finland Over Christmas And New Year’s: What To Expect
Thinking about spending the festive season in Finland? Whether it’s Christmas magic or starting the new year in a winter wonderland, Finland has so much to offer. But what’s it really like at this time of year? Let’s dive into everything you can expect for an unforgettable holiday season.
Frosty Temperatures
Let’s start with the obvious: Finland is freezing at this time of year. In northern regions like Lapland, temperatures can drop to -30°C (-22°F) or lower, with the chilly winds making it feel even colder. While this sets the scene for a true Arctic adventure, it’s important to pack the right gear. Thermal layers, a windproof jacket, and insulated boots are absolute musts if you want to enjoy the outdoors without turning into a popsicle!
Skiing Into The New Year
Skiing during the holiday season is a popular activity for visitors to Finland, and it’s a fantastic way to make your celebrations extra memorable. Resorts like Ylläs and Levi offer great slopes and magical surroundings, and some places even host special midnight ski events to welcome in the new year.
However, be prepared: the weather doesn’t always cooperate. When we spent Christmas and New Year’s in Äkäslompolo, we were so excited to join the midnight ski. But between the extreme cold and strong winds, we ended up calling it off and heading back to the warmth of our cabin instead. Sometimes, it’s best to enjoy Finland’s winter beauty from a cosy spot with hot chocolate in hand.
Magical Holiday Markets
One of the highlights of visiting Finland during the festive season is exploring its Christmas markets. In Helsinki, the market at Senate Square is packed with charming wooden stalls, festive lights, and the irresistible aroma of glögi (Finnish mulled wine). You’ll find everything from handmade crafts to traditional Finnish treats — perfect for picking up unique gifts or simply enjoying in the holiday cheer.
Unique Festive Traditions
The holiday season in Finland also brings a mix of cosy traditions and fun activities. Whether it’s indulging in Finnish Christmas meals, relaxing in a sauna (a national tradition), or even meeting Santa in Rovaniemi, there’s something magical about the way Finns celebrate.
For New Year’s, you can expect incredible fireworks in major cities and we’ve heard of a super interesting tradition they have in Finland called “tin casting”, where basically you melt tin or sugar and drop it into water to predict the year ahead. You can read more about this in this article by Vogue Scandinavia.
Activities For The Adventurous
Even in the coldest weather, Finland offers unforgettable experiences:
Husky sledding: Glide across snowy trails with a pack of energetic huskies.
Northern Lights safaris: December is a prime time for spotting this breathtaking experience.
Reindeer sleigh rides: A serene and magical way to explore the Arctic wilderness.
Just be sure to check the weather before heading out — it can make or break your plans. Book your activities in advance with Get Your Guide for the best rates and availability.
What To Know For Christmas & New Year’s
While the festive charm of Finland is undeniable, visiting during Christmas and New Year’s requires a bit of planning and flexibility. Here’s what you should know:
Short Days, Long Nights: In Lapland, daylight can last as little as 2–4 hours per day, with the sun barely skimming the horizon. This creates an enchanting twilight atmosphere, but it also means planning activities around limited daylight.
Peak Travel Season: Christmas and New Year’s are hugely popular times for tourists, so expect crowded ski resorts, fully booked accommodations, and higher prices. If you’re after a quieter experience, consider staying in a smaller village like Äkäslompolo instead of a big resort.
Extreme Cold: Even with the right gear, the cold can feel relentless, especially with the wind. If you’re planning outdoor adventures, be flexible — you might need to reschedule or even cancel plans if the weather turns harsh.
Festive Atmosphere: The towns and cities go all out for the season. Think fairy lights strung over snow-covered streets, markets filled with holiday cheer, and restaurants serving delicious Christmas dishes like joulupöytä (the Finnish Christmas buffet).
Laid-Back New Year’s Celebrations: If you’re looking for crazy parties, Finland’s smaller towns might not be your scene. Instead, it’s more about relaxed celebrations — saunas, cosy cabins, or maybe fireworks in a snowy town square. Some spots even offer unique experiences like snowshoeing or sleigh rides to welcome the new year.
Activities Beyond the Holidays: Finland is full of incredible winter adventures that extend past Christmas and New Year’s. From husky sledding to snowshoeing, there’s plenty to explore if you’re not tied to traditional celebrations.
Your End-Of-Year Arctic Adventure Awaits
Spending Christmas and New Year’s in Finland is an unforgettable experience. Sure, the cold might test your limits, but the magical landscapes, festive fun, and cosy vibes make it 100% worth it. If you’re still not convinced then make sure to watch the travel vlog of “How We Spent 7 Days in Finland During Winter (-30°C)”. Otherwise, just pack your warmest gear, prepare for the unexpected, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. ✈️🩵
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This is How We Spent 7 Days in Finland During Winter (-30°C)
Thinking about a winter escape? December in Finland is a dream come true. From snowy landscapes to holiday vibes, it’s the season where Finland truly shines. Discover why this month offers some of the most unforgettable experiences for travellers.