Experiencing a Traditional Finnish Christmas

1. Visit Finland during the Christmas season:

Experience the magical atmosphere of Christmas in Finland by planning your visit between late November and early January. This period includes various festive events and traditions.

2. Explore Finnish Christmas markets:

Visit the numerous Christmas markets held across Finland, such as the Helsinki Christmas Market or the Old Porvoo Christmas Market. These markets offer traditional Finnish Christmas food, drinks, crafts, and gifts.

3. Enjoy traditional Finnish Christmas foods:

Taste the typical Finnish Christmas dishes, such as ham, salmon, different types of casseroles, and the iconic Christmas dessert, gingerbread cookies. Attend a Christmas buffet (joulupöytä) at a local restaurant to savor a variety of traditional delicacies.

4. Experience a Finnish sauna:

Take part in the Finnish tradition of sauna during Christmas. Many households have a sauna, and it is common to enjoy a relaxing sauna session during the holiday season.

5. Attend a Christmas concert or play:

Immerse yourself in Finnish Christmas spirit by attending a Christmas concert, choir performance, or a traditional Christmas play. The music and performances during this time highlight the festive mood and traditions.

6. Decorate a Christmas tree:

Participate in the Finnish tradition of decorating a Christmas tree. Choose a real fir or spruce tree, adorn it with lights, ornaments, and Finnish decorations like straw ornaments or tonttu figurines.

7. Exchange gifts on Christmas Eve:

In Finland, Christmas gifts are traditionally exchanged on the evening of December 24th. Join a Finnish family or group of friends to experience this heartwarming tradition of giving and receiving presents.

8. Engage in outdoor activities:

Enjoy the winter wonderland of Finland by participating in outdoor activities during the Christmas season. Go ice skating, sledding, skiing, or take a reindeer or husky sleigh ride in the snowy landscapes.

9. Attend a Christmas church service:

Experience the religious significance of Christmas by attending a Christmas Eve church service. The service often includes beautiful hymns, candlelight, and a peaceful atmosphere.

10. Embrace the darkness and Northern Lights:

In Finland, where the winter days are short, embrace the darkness and, if you're lucky, witness the Northern Lights. Head to a remote location away from city lights for a chance to see this mesmerizing natural phenomenon.