Meeting Santa Claus in Lapland
The Finnish province of Lapland is famously known as the home of Santa Claus, who is said to be found throughout the year in the Arctic Circle. Here’s how to meet St. Nick in his native North Pole and get into the Christmas spirit in Finland.
Situated right on the Arctic Circle, this amusement park is packed with festive shops and restaurants, and is even home to Santa’s Office and Main Post Office, where visitors can meet the man himself any time of year. Several tours include a visit as part of a wider Arctic itinerary or in combination with city sightseeing.
Deep beneath the Arctic Circle, a secret cavern known as SantaPark is always celebrating Christmas. Here, you can learn from Santa’s helpers at Elf School, take a ride on the Magic Train, or meet Santa and the Ice Princess in their underground home. Admission includes access to all onsite attractions and can be redeemed over two consecutive days.
Settle into your seat and dash through the snow on a ride through rural Rovaniemi. Snowmobile tours are ideal for large groups and thrill-seekers, as riders can enjoy enchanting views from otherwise inaccessible terrain. More traditional tours, led by Santa’s reindeer or huskies, are also available, often as part of comprehensive Arctic Circle tours.