The magical moment when your child first passes through the gate of Santa Claus Village is one you'll never forget. Here, at the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi, the Santa Claus has his official residence – an enchanting world where Christmas magic lives all year round. As experienced Lapland travelers, we’re happy to share some tips for an unforgettable family adventure in this winter wonderland.
Top Tips from Our Team
- Book your meeting with Santa in advance through the official booking system. This is especially important in December, when wait times can reach up to 2-3 hours.
- Wear warm, waterproof winter clothing in layers. Temperatures in Rovaniemi can drop to -30°C.
- Download the free Santa Claus Village app for an interactive map, current opening hours, and fun scavenger hunts for the kids.
Discovering the Magic of Santa Claus Village
Santa Claus Village is a charming Christmas village where every detail is just right. As soon as you walk under the iconic gate, with its big clock counting down to Christmas all year round, you feel like you've stepped into another world. The Arctic air is filled with the scent of freshly baked gingerbread, and everywhere you look, thousands of lights twinkle in the snow. Discover our complete Lapland trip to Santa Claus Village here and let yourself be swept away in this magical adventure.
Practical tips for your visit with children
The best time to go
The Christmas village is open all year round, but for the most magical experience, we recommend visiting between December and March. During this period, Rovaniemi is covered in a thick layer of snow, and you have the chance to see the Northern Lights. The days are short, creating an extra fairytale atmosphere with all the lights.
Meeting Santa Claus
The highlight for many children is, of course, meeting the real Santa Claus. He welcomes visitors in his office, deep in the caves of Santa Claus Village. What makes this experience so special is that Santa often has a brief chat in your children's native language.
Activities for the whole family
Santa’s Post Office
At the official post office of Santa Claus, kids can send their own Christmas cards with a special Arctic Circle stamp. It’s heartwarming to see your little ones focused as they write down their wishes. Tip: have them write down the addresses at home beforehand to save time.
Elf School
One of the best-kept secrets of Santa Claus Village is the elf school, where children can learn how to become a real Christmas helper. They learn to wrap gifts, care for reindeer, and even a bit of elf magic!
Crossing the Arctic Circle
Capture an unforgettable photo at the marker of the Arctic Circle, which runs right through Santa Claus Village. Kids receive a special certificate here proving they've crossed the magical line.
Food and drinks in Santa Claus Village
Restaurants and Cafés
From traditional Lapland dishes to international kid favorites, there's something for everyone. Be sure to try the warm berry juice (a local specialty) and the freshly baked korvapuusti (Finnish cinnamon rolls) in one of the cozy cafés.
Picnic Spots
There are several warmed indoor spaces where you can enjoy your own lunch. Handy if you're traveling with little ones who have specific preferences.
Accommodation Options
Right next to Santa Claus Village, you'll find several of our accommodations. Here you can find more info about our various chalets in Rovaniemi.
