Visit to Santa Claus Village in Finnish Lapland

The magic of Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi: An unforgettable experience in Finnish Lapland

Imagine a place where Christmas magic reigns all year round, where children's dreams come to life, and where the festive spirit knows no season. Welcome to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland!

This iconic attraction draws thousands of visitors from around the world each year, young and old alike, eager to experience a unique adventure in the heart of the Arctic Circle. In this article, we'll take you on a journey to discover this enchanting place and explain how to integrate this magical visit into an authentic Lapland stay with Lapland Real.

Santa Claus Village: A dream come true

Located just 8 kilometers north of Rovaniemi, Santa Claus Village is much more than a simple tourist attraction. It's a true wonderland where the boundary between reality and imagination blurs. From the moment you arrive, you'll be transported into a fairy-tale atmosphere with its glittering decorations, mischievous elves, and of course, the presence of Santa Claus himself.

Village highlights:
1. Santa's Official Post Office: Send a postcard stamped from the Arctic Circle to your loved ones.
2. Meeting Santa Claus: A magical moment for young and old.
3. Elf workshops: Discover the behind-the-scenes of toy making.
4. Crossing the Arctic Circle line: A symbolic moment to immortalize.

The history of Santa Claus Village

The village's history dates back to 1950, when Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady of the United States, visited Rovaniemi to witness the reconstruction efforts after World War II. A cabin was specially built to welcome her, marking the beginning of what would become Santa Claus Village.

Over the years, the site has developed to become a major attraction, a symbol of Lapland and the Christmas spirit. Today, the village welcomes over 500,000 visitors annually, making Rovaniemi the official Christmas capital of Finland.

What to do in Santa Claus Village?

1. Meet Santa Claus This is undoubtedly the village's main attraction. In his office, Santa Claus welcomes visitors all year round. It's an opportunity to chat with him, share your wishes, and take a souvenir photo. Children will be amazed, and adults will rediscover their inner child for a magical moment.

2. Visit the post office Santa's Post Office is a must-see. You can send postcards with the official Arctic Circle stamp. It's also here that thousands of letters addressed to Santa Claus are processed each year.

3. Participate in workshops and activities. The village offers numerous activities for the whole family: toy-making workshops, elf school, or even an introduction to Nordic pastry-making. These animations allow visitors to immerse themselves further in Santa's magical universe.

4. Discover local crafts. Many shops offer souvenirs and Lappish handicrafts. It's an opportunity to bring a bit of magic home or find original gifts.

5. Enjoy seasonal attractions. In winter, the village is covered in a white blanket and offers typical activities such as reindeer or dog sled rides. In summer, you can enjoy the midnight sun and the lush landscapes of Lapland.

When to visit Santa Claus Village?

The village is open all year round, offering a different experience depending on the season:

• In winter (November to March): This is the most popular period, with snow, northern lights, and the Christmas atmosphere at its peak. Winter activities like snowmobiling or sledding are available.

• In spring (April to May): Nature awakens, offering a spectacle of rebirth. The days get longer, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities.

• In summer (June to August): Enjoy the midnight sun and mild temperatures. It's an ideal period for hiking and outdoor activities.

• In autumn (September to October): The flamboyant colors of Lappish nature offer a spectacular setting. It's also the beginning of the northern lights season.

Combining the village visit with an authentic stay in Lapland

While visiting Santa Claus Village is a magical experience, it represents only one facet of what Lapland has to offer. To fully experience the authenticity of this region, we recommend combining this visit with a stay at Lapland Real.

Located near Kemijärvi, Lapland Real offers a total immersion in Lappish culture and nature, away from mass tourism circuits. Here are some reasons to choose Lapland Real to complete your experience:
1. Authentic accommodation: Stay in a Finnish lodging, a well-renovated former school, comfortable and warm, in the heart of nature.
2. Varied activities: Enjoy a wide range of typical activities such as ice fishing, snowshoe hiking, northern lights observation, or discovering Sami culture.
3. Local gastronomy: Taste traditional Lappish dishes, prepared with fresh and local products.
4. Contact with nature: Immerse yourself in the wild landscapes of Lapland, far from tourist hustle and bustle.
5. Personalized experience: Benefit from a warm welcome and tailor-made service, adapted to your desires and pace.

By combining the visit to Santa Claus Village with a stay at Lapland Real, you'll experience a complete and balanced adventure: the wonder of Rovaniemi's village and the authenticity of life in Lapland.

Visiting Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi is a magical experience that will delight both young and old. It's an opportunity to live a timeless moment, filled with enchantment and traditions. However, to truly grasp the essence of Lapland, we encourage you to extend your stay beyond Rovaniemi.

With Lapland Real, you'll discover the true soul of this fascinating region: its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and ancestral traditions. Whether you come in winter to experience the magic of Christmas or in summer to enjoy the midnight sun, Lapland will offer you unforgettable memories.