If there's a place that fully captures the magic and spirit of Christmas, that is surely Lapland. Situated in the northern part of Finland, this location gives any visitor a reason to never forget they went there. Whether you're a fan of adventure, wildlife, or holiday traditions, Lapland during Christmas offers something for everyone. In case you were not convinced yet, here are some reasons why you should visit Lapland on Christmas once in a lifetime!
A visit to Santa Claus in His Hometown
How many of you have ever wished to see Santa Claus in real life as a child? Well, this time you could make your wish come true! Lapland is where you can find the Santa Claus Village, just outside Rovaniemi, the capital of this wonderland. You will finally be able to meet Santa, visit his post office where letters from all over the world arrive, and even cross the magical Arctic Circle. What else could you ask for?
The unforgettable activities!!
The snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and pristine wilderness invite you to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. If you left Lapland without doing a sleigh ride, then it's like you have never been there! You can ride with real reindeers or even experience the thrill of a huskies-powered sled ride. These traditional modes of transport are not only festive, but also an authentic way to explore the snowy landscapes of the Arctic. For those who were seeking a faster pace, husky safaris are an exciting way to race through the white landscapes and bond with these adorable, energetic, and friendly dogs. If you are looking for other things to do, then snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or taking a hike under the twilight skies could be great solutions for you.
The Mesmerizing Northern Lights
Lapland is not only famous for its activities or for Santa Claus. In fact, this snowy wonderland is the best location where you can witness one of the most breath-taking light shows gifted to us by Mother Nature: The Aurora Borealis, better known as Northern Lights. This natural phenomenon can be frequently seen in the night sky during winter, as it is filled with tints of green, purple, and pink. Whether you're standing outside in the snow with friends or watching from the warmth of a cabin, wrapped in a blanket, sipping hot chocolate by a fireplace, the Northern Lights create a magic atmosphere that will make your holiday unforgettable.
Discovering Lappish traditions & Cuisine
During your stay, if you were to visit locations like Siida and Sajos in Finnish Lapland, you would meet the indigenous Sàmi people and learn about their traditional way of life, including reindeer herding, storytelling, and crafts. In case you suddenly got hungry after your discoveries, there's nothing better than warming up with traditional Lappish cuisine. In fact, you would be able to try many different dishes, such as Sámi Leibbá, which is a type of flatbread, often made with barley or rye flour, cooked over an open fire, or the Arctic Char (Nieriä), a fish commonly found in the rivers and lakes of Lapland, prepared by smoking, or grilling and served with dill and a creamy sauce. If you were craving something sweeter, then you should go for the Joulutorttu, a traditional Finnish star-shaped pastry, made from puff pastry, and filled with plum jam or a prune; and don’t forget to indulge in Finnish glögi (spicy juice) or a hot cup of berry juice to stay toasty during your adventures!
A Christmas Like No Other? Obviously!!
Lapland is more than just a destination; it’s a gateway to experiencing the purest joy of Christmas. Whether it’s the allure of meeting Santa Claus, marveling at the Northern Lights, or immersing yourself in the Sami culture, Lapland has a unique ability to bring out the childlike wonder in every traveler. So, if you're dreaming of a white Christmas, filled with adventure, tradition, and a touch of magic, Lapland is calling your name and you should definitely check our trip out!
Picture by jakergb via Canvas