Lakeland Finland offers an enchanting array of Christmas experiences perfect for visitors seeking a magical winter escape. This picturesque region known for its pristine lakes and snow-covered forests, comes alive during the holiday season with festive markets, unique cultural traditions and serene winter activities. Let us guide you through the best Christmas experiences in Lakeland.
Lakeland, Finland, provides an unparalleled Christmas experience, blending festive traditions, natural beauty, and cozy winter activities. Embrace the joy of the season with a visit to this magical region, and create holiday memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Discover Christmas Markets
Nestled in the heart of Joensuu, the Taitokortteli Christmas Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the magic of a traditional Finnish Christmas. This charming craft quarter transforms into a festive wonderland, brimming with local artisans, seasonal treats, and cozy holiday cheer.
Christmas markets in Lakeland, such as those in Mikkeli Market Square and Kuopio, offer delightful opportunities to shop for gifts while enjoying the festive atmosphere. These markets feature stalls filled with local products, holiday decorations, and mouthwatering seasonal foods.
Kuopio Chrismas Market is voted as the most beautiful christmas market in Finland, offering stunning christmas lights and festive atmosphere to it´s visitors. Kuopio Christmas Market is held in Kuopio market square annually in December. The event focuses on it´s visual appearance and lighting, but also offers a free carousel for small children, a variety of offerings from Christmas cafes and restaurants to high-quality gift items and food products from interesting companies and artisans. On the weekends you can also find Santa Claus and Mrs. Santa from the Christmas Market. Every year the event presents interesting light art and also christmassy photo spots to capture lovely memories.
Visitors can sip on glögi as they wander through rows of stalls, picking up handmade crafts and sampling local delicacies. The markets often feature live music, children’s activities, and other festive events, making them a perfect outing for families and couples alike.
2. Enjoy the Snowy Outdoors
No Finnish Christmas is complete without enjoying the snowy outdoors, and the sledding hill is the perfect place for winter fun. Families can glide down the snowy slopes, build snowmen, or simply revel in the crisp winter air. The sledding hill offers activities for all ages and provides an authentic Finnish winter experience. After a day of play, visitors can warm up with hot chocolate or snacks at nearby cafes.
Other great options are cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You will find plenty of options from different regions – just choose what is best for you!
Authentic Reindeer farm
Step into the heart of Finnish Lapland with a visit to an authentic reindeer farm in Suomussalmi. Get up close to these gentle Arctic animals, feed them by hand, and learn about traditional reindeer herding from local herders. The highlight of the experience is a magical reindeer sleigh ride through snowy forests, offering a glimpse into the centuries-old way of life in the north. This unforgettable Arctic adventure is perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the peaceful beauty of Finland’s winter wonderland.
Read more: Reindeer Farm in Suomussalmi
3. Attend a Christmas Morning service
For a truly unique Christmas experience, attend the atmospheric Christmas morning service.
On Christmas morning, the churches are filled with the soft glow of candlelight and the sound of traditional hymns, creating an unforgettable ambiance. The service offers visitors a chance to connect with Finnish culture and embrace the peaceful essence of Christmas in an extraordinary setting.
4. Rent a cozy Villa by the lake
For a tranquil Christmas getaway, consider renting a lakeside cottage or villa in the Lakeland region. With countless options ranging from rustic cabins to luxurious villas, you can experience the beauty of Finnish nature in complete comfort.
Picture yourself sitting by a roaring fire, sipping warm drinks, and watching snowflakes fall over the frozen lake. Many cottages come with saunas, offering the quintessential Finnish way to relax after a day spent exploring the outdoors.
Whether you prefer a quiet retreat or a family celebration, staying in a lakeside cottage is the perfect way to create cherished holiday memories.
Key Details:
- Location: Throughout the Lakeland Finland region
- Booking Options: Explore rental choices.
5. Experience the magic of Finnish Christmas Traditions
The warmth of the Christmas Sauna
In Finland, Christmas isn’t just about festive decorations and delicious food—it’s also about relaxation and tradition. One of the most cherished customs is the Christmas sauna, a moment of peace before the holiday celebrations begin. On Christmas Eve, families gather to enjoy a warm, candlelit sauna, symbolizing purification and leaving behind the worries of the past year. For visitors, it’s a unique way to experience the Finnish way of embracing both nature and well-being.
The mystery of the Christmas Porridge
No Finnish Christmas morning is complete without a steaming bowl of rice porridge (riisipuuro), served with cinnamon, sugar, and a pat of butter. But there’s a special twist—hidden inside the porridge is a single blanched almond. Whoever finds it is said to have good luck in the coming year! This fun and heartwarming tradition adds a little excitement to the Christmas feast, making it a memorable experience for families and guests alike.
Meet Santa Claus
Experience the magic of Christmas in Kuhmo at the charming Hotel Kalevala, where Finnish traditions and the enchanting winter landscape create a holiday to remember. This cozy retreat offers an authentic Christmas adventure, complete with festive dinners, relaxing saunas, and thrilling outdoor activities. Enjoy husky safaris, snowshoeing, and the peaceful beauty of snow-covered forests. Meet Santa Claus himself and take part in beloved Finnish traditions like the Christmas sauna and festive feasts. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this Christmas getaway in Kuhmo is a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season.
Read more: Christmas at Hotel Kalevala
The comfort of Finnish Glögi
On a cold winter’s night, there’s nothing better than a cup of steaming glögi, Finland’s take on mulled wine. This spiced drink, made with red wine or berry juice, is infused with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, and often served with almonds and raisins. Whether enjoyed at a Christmas market or by a crackling fire, glögi brings warmth and holiday spirit to any winter evening. Why don´t you make your own glögi mix this Christmas!
