Rovaniemi is the Official Hometown of Santa Claus. The Christmas season is a month-long celebration filled with markets, concerts, parades, and meet-and-greets with Santa. The festive lights and snowy landscapes create a magical winter atmosphere.
Major festivals in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi Arctic design week
Arctic Design Week is the world’s northernmost design festival. It focuses on sustainable creativity, Nordic craftsmanship, and innovative thinking. The city comes alive with exhibitions, workshops, fashion shows, and public art. Families, travelers, and design professionals all find something inspiring.
Jutajaiset folklore festival
This festival celebrates Sami stories, songs, and Arctic folklore. Expect traditional music, dance, handicrafts, and cultural performances. The event highlights the heritage of Lapland and welcomes visitors to experience Indigenous art in an authentic way.
Midnight sun events
During summer, Rovaniemi celebrates the Midnight Sun with outdoor concerts, hiking festivals, river activities, and late-night cultural gatherings. Locals enjoy the energizing light, and visitors get a rare chance to experience summer without darkness.
Rovaniemi Week
Held annually to celebrate the city itself, Rovaniemi Week features concerts, open-air theater, food stalls, and family activities. The event highlights community spirit, and many venues across the city participate with special programs and exhibitions. It is a lively celebration of everyday Lapland life.
New year’s eve in Santa Claus Village
New Year’s Eve in Rovaniemi combines fireworks, live music, winter activities, and a festive countdown. Families can celebrate twice, once at an early evening Arctic Circle show and again at midnight in the city center. The snowy landscape adds charm to the celebrations.
