December is peak festive season. The city sparkles with Christmas lights, and Santa Claus Village is in full swing. Snow is deep, days are shortest, and crowds are at their highest. It’s magical for families and first-timers, but book everything well in advance.

Rovaniemi in December at a glance

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Weather

Maximum temperature: -6°C

Minimum temperature: -13°C

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Daylight

Around 2 hours 30 minutes of daylight

Sunrise: 11am

Sunset: 1:30pm

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Crowds

Tourist-heavy, with long queues at attractions, crowded streets, and seasonal events adding to the buzz.

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What to pack

Heavy parka, thermal layers, insulated boots, festive attire for holiday events.

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Seasonal treats

Joulupöytä (Christmas buffet) at hotels, rosolli salad at Nili, gingerbread and glögi at Santa Village

What to eat in Rovaniemi in December: Seasonal delicacies

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Poronkäristys (Sautéed Reindeer)

Thinly sliced reindeer, slow-cooked with butter and onions, served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam. This classic Lapland dish is lean, savory, and a staple of winter menus. It’s deeply rooted in Sámi herding culture and available year-round, especially at traditional restaurants like Nili. Nili Restaurant: Valtakatu 20, 96200 Rovaniemi (66.4982, 25.7267).

Where to get: Restaurante Nili

Lohikeitto (Salmon Soup)

A creamy soup of fresh salmon, potatoes, carrots, and dill in a buttery broth. Lohikeitto is a Finnish comfort food, perfect for cold days and widely served at lunch spots and cafés. Try it at Frans & Chérie Brasserie: Koskikatu 23, 96200 Rovaniemi (66.4983, 25.7291).

Where to get: Frans y Chérie