Things You Need to Know Before Visiting the Santa Claus Village

You can meet Santa Claus and cross the magical Arctic Circle every day at the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi.

There are many souvenir shops as well as Santa’s Main Post Office, programme service companies and cafes and restaurants in the Santa Claus Village. And of course, Santa is there too, in his chamber every day of the year.

What is the Santa Claus Village?

Santa Claus Village is known as Father Christmas’ official residence in the Arctic Circle. It’s the place to visit to meet him, Mrs Claus, the elves and the reindeer. Expect plenty of fun activities and Christmas spirit!

Where is the Santa Claus Village?

You only have to travel to the north of Finland, to a region called Lapland. The village is located just inside the Arctic Circle, around 8 kilometres (5 miles) from Rovaniemi.

Rovaniemi is the capital of Finnish Lapland and considered to be the official hometown of Santa.

When is the best time to visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi?

The village is open all year round, so you could visit whenever suits you best. For the ultimate winter getaway, we recommend a Lapland trip in December, January, February or March. At this time, you can expect a blanket of snow over the stunning landscape.

What to do in Santa Claus Village?

First, meet the "big man in red" himself either at the Santa Claus Office or the Christmas House. Make sure to check the opening hours before your visit so you don’t miss him.

Outdoor Activities

As well as these Christmassy activities, there’s plenty of other things to dig your teeth into at the Santa Claus Holiday Village. Not just literally at the many restaurants, cafés and bars, but with fun Arctic rides.

Other fun things to do in Lapland

If you’re staying in Rovaniemi or the nearby town of Kemi, there is a range of other exciting activities to experience. Add one or more of the following to your itinerary to make the most of your Arctic adventure: