Going to Finnish Lapland this winter? If you are, then you should probably consider a trip to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. Santa Claus Village has delighted young and old since it opened in 1985 and is an absolute must for Christmas fans who want to meet the real Santa Claus in his natural habitat. In this article, we will focus on 10 things you can do in this winter wonderland in the winter (it is open all-year round but the activities differ slightly).
#1 Visit Santa Claus (and the Elves)
Have you ever dreamed of meeting the real Santa Claus? At Santa Claus Village, this dream becomes a reality. Step into Santa’s office, a magical place where the spirit of Christmas lives year-round. It’s an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages, filled with joy for both children and adults alike.
#2 Send Christmas Cards from Santa Claus’ Main Post Office
All cards sent from the Santa Claus’ Main Post Office are stamped with a unique Arctic Circle postmark. Their selection of postcards and beautiful Finnish stamps is truly impressive – your friends and family at home will love receiving cards from here!
You might also be interested to learn how to get a real letter from Santa Claus without visiting Finland.
#3 Cross the Arctic Circle
Speaking of Arctic Circle postmarks…there is a reason for that. Namely, the Arctic Circle runs right through the Santa Claus Holiday Village! The line is clearly marked so you can snap excellent shots of you jumping across it, should you want that. Even better, you can actually get a certificate verifying that this event took place. Because…how else would your friends believe you? 😉
#4 Meet Mrs Santa Claus
Yes, of course there is a Mrs Santa Claus! She even has her own Christmas cottage where she entertains guests with stories about Lapland. You’ll find here in the Santa Claus Reindeer Resort.
#5 Go on a Spontaneous Reindeer Ride
Often reindeer sleigh rides have to be booked in advance, sometimes even well in advance. But in Santa Claus Village you can go on either a shorter 400 meter ride, or a longer 1000 meter reindeer sleigh ride without booking in advance! It’s the perfect choice when looking for some spontaneous fun.
#6 Visit the Arctic Circle Husky Park
Discover a true Husky paradise at Husky Park, where over 100 genuine Siberian Huskies await to share their world with you. The park is open every day throughout the year and offers an array of unique experiences from thrilling Husky safaris and adventurous Husky Hiking to heartwarming Husky Hugging.
Located next to Santa Claus Village, Husky Park is a glimpse into the daily lives of these beautiful dogs. Here, you can observe everything from feeding routines to how the huskies are harnessed for their runs. As a family-owned operation, Husky Park prides itself on prioritizing the well-being and natural needs of their huskies, ensuring a happy and healthy environment.
This experience is perfect for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal family activity. Children and adults alike will cherish the opportunity to interact with these friendly and energetic dogs.
#7 Enjoy the Unforgettable Northern Lights Excursions
Many operators in the area offer Northern Lights Excursions of different types. If you stay at the nearby Apukka Resort (a shuttle bus goes from Santa Claus Village to there and back), you can choose from many unforgettable Northern Lights excursions. Seriously, who could resist a Husky Carriage Ride Under the Northern Lights?
#8 Eat and Drink Well
At Santa Claus Village, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to dining options. The area is bustling with a variety of restaurants and cafes, each offering a unique culinary experience. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Lappish cuisine or international flavors, there’s something for everyone.
For a taste of local tradition, don’t miss the opportunity to try salmon cooked on an open fire, a method that brings out the rich, smoky flavors of this Arctic delicacy. The village also features restaurants specializing in Lappish cuisine, where you can savor dishes filled with authentic flavors unique to the region.
If you’re craving something more familiar, the village caters to international tastes as well. You can find Asian cuisine, along with classic favorites like pizza and burgers, ensuring that every palate is satisfied.
And for a truly unforgettable dining experience, be sure to visit the Ice Bar & Snow Restaurant in Snowman World. This extraordinary venue is reconstructed every winter, offering a magical setting made entirely of ice and snow that melts away during the summer. Dining or enjoying a drink in this icy wonderland is a one-of-a-kind experience, adding an extra touch of magic to your visit to Santa Claus Village.
#9 Have Fun at Snowman World
Snowman World, nestled within Santa Claus Village, is a winter wonderland where a day full of fun and excitement awaits. For just 29 € per person (with kids under 2 years free of charge), you can access an array of snowy adventures that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Your ticket grants you all-day access to this enchanting snowy playground.
In Snowman World, you’ll find spectacular snow and ice slides that promise thrilling rides for both the young and the young at heart. Navigate through a fun snow labyrinth, an exciting challenge that’s perfect for families. And if you’re up for some classic winter fun, there’s a real ice-skating rink waiting for you.
Remember, Snowman World is an outdoor destination, so it’s crucial to dress warmly to make the most of your experience.
#10 Experience Ice Driving at Santa’s Motorpark
And last but not least is Santa’s Motorpark. It’s located just a 7-minute walk from the center of Santa Claus Village and offers a unique and thrilling ice driving experience on a 750-meter track. Featuring high-quality Italian-made CRG karts, the park ensures both fun and safety for all drivers. These karts are specially designed to provide an exhilarating ride while maintaining the highest safety standards.
This activity isn’t limited to just the youngsters; anyone taller than 150 cm, regardless of age, is welcome to join in the fun.
Santa’s Motor Park has a special track designed just for children. Kids under 140 cm tall can have their own adventure riding a mini-skidoo and a children’s ATV. This children’s track ensures a safe and enjoyable driving experience, allowing kids to feel the excitement of driving in a controlled and secure environment.
Have you been to Santa Claus Village? What did you do there? Leave us a comment!