7 Ways To Experience A Magical Lapland Christmas 2023

Lapland, a vast and remote region in northern Europe, is a winter wonderland that offers a unique and magical Christmas experience. Located in the Arctic Circle, Lapland is a place where the snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and rolling hills create a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. In this article, we will explore 7 ways to experience a magical Lapland Christmas in 2023.

Lapland is a sparsely populated region, covering parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. It is home to the indigenous Sami people, who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. The region's unique culture, stunning natural beauty, and winter activities make it an ideal destination for a Christmas getaway.

1. Meet Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, located in Finnish Lapland, is known as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Here, you can meet Santa himself at the Santa Claus Village, a theme park that offers a range of Christmas activities and attractions. The village is open year-round, but it's especially magical during the Christmas season.

At the Santa Claus Village, you can:

Meet Santa Claus and take a photo with him
Explore the Arctic Circle and cross the line into the Arctic
Visit the Santa Claus Post Office and send a postcard from the Arctic Circle
Enjoy Christmas markets and shopping
Take part in Christmas activities, such as decorating cookies and making Christmas crafts

2. Experience a Traditional Sami Christmas

The Sami people have lived in Lapland for centuries, and their culture is an integral part of the region's heritage. A traditional Sami Christmas is a unique and authentic experience that allows you to learn about the Sami way of life and celebrate Christmas with a local family.

A traditional Sami Christmas typically includes:

Traditional Sami food, such as reindeer meat and cloudberry pie
Singing traditional Sami Christmas carols
Learning about Sami culture and traditions
Participating in Sami crafts and activities, such as making traditional clothing and jewelry

3. Go on a Northern Lights Safari

Lapland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. A Northern Lights safari is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows you to see this natural phenomenon in all its glory.

On a Northern Lights safari, you can:

Take a guided tour to the best viewing spots
Learn about the science behind the Northern Lights
Enjoy hot chocolate and snacks while waiting for the lights to appear
Take photos of the Northern Lights to capture the moment

4. Take a Dog Sledding Tour

Dog sledding is a popular winter activity in Lapland, and it's a great way to experience the region's winter landscape. On a dog sledding tour, you'll ride on a sled pulled by a team of happy huskies, taking in the breathtaking scenery and enjoying the fresh air.

On a dog sledding tour, you can:

Learn about the history and technique of dog sledding
Meet the friendly huskies and learn about their training
Take a scenic ride through the winter landscape
Enjoy hot chocolate and snacks after the ride

5. Stay in a Snow Hotel

Lapland is home to several snow hotels, which are built every winter using natural snow and ice. Staying in a snow hotel is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows you to sleep in a hotel made entirely of snow and ice.

In a snow hotel, you can:

Sleep in a room made entirely of snow and ice
Enjoy a warm breakfast and hot chocolate in the hotel's restaurant
Take part in snow activities, such as building snowmen and making snow angels
Explore the surrounding winter landscape

6. Go on a Snowmobile Safari

Snowmobiling is a popular winter activity in Lapland, and it's a great way to explore the region's winter landscape. On a snowmobile safari, you'll ride on a snowmobile through the snowy terrain, taking in the breathtaking scenery and enjoying the fresh air.

On a snowmobile safari, you can:

Learn about the basics of snowmobiling and safety
Take a scenic ride through the winter landscape
Visit remote areas and take in the stunning views
Enjoy hot chocolate and snacks after the ride

7. Take a Reindeer Safari

Reindeer are an integral part of Lapland's culture and heritage, and taking a reindeer safari is a great way to learn about these amazing animals. On a reindeer safari, you'll visit a reindeer farm and learn about the daily life of reindeer herders.

On a reindeer safari, you can:

Learn about the history and culture of reindeer herding
Visit a reindeer farm and meet the friendly reindeer
Take a scenic ride through the winter landscape
Enjoy traditional Sami food and drink

In conclusion, Lapland is a winter wonderland that offers a unique and magical Christmas experience. From meeting Santa Claus to taking a dog sledding tour, there are plenty of ways to experience the magic of Lapland at Christmas. Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, Lapland has something for everyone.

What is the best time to visit Lapland for Christmas?

The best time to visit Lapland for Christmas is in December, when the winter landscape is at its most magical and the Northern Lights are visible in the night sky.

How do I get to Lapland?

Lapland is accessible by air, with several airports in the region. You can also take a train or bus from Helsinki or other major cities in Finland.

What should I pack for a trip to Lapland?

Make sure to pack warm clothing, including a thermal base layer, insulating layer, and waterproof jacket and pants. You should also bring a hat, gloves, and scarf to keep warm in the cold winter weather.