Day 4: Finland – Home of the Real Santa

In Finland, Christmas is a serene and snow-covered celebration deeply rooted in both Christian faith and Nordic folklore. Known as Joulupukki (the home of Santa Claus), Finland embraces the holiday with warmth, simplicity, and reverence for nature. Many Finns say the true spirit of Christmas begins in Lapland, where Santa is believed to reside in Korvatunturi, a fell located deep within the Arctic Circle.

The season begins with Advent, as candles and stars light up homes against the long polar nights. On December 24, the air fills with anticipation as families visit cemeteries to place candles on the graves of loved ones, turning snowy landscapes into glowing fields of light. Later, families gather for a Christmas sauna, a traditional Finnish ritual that symbolizes purification before the holiday feast.

Dinner includes ham, salmon, rosolli salad, and rice porridge, which hides an almond that grants luck to whoever finds it. Afterward, children eagerly await Joulupukki's arrival—he often knocks at the door in person to deliver gifts. The evening ends with songs, laughter, and quiet moments by the fire.

Christmas in Finland captures the harmony between tradition, reflection, and wonder—a celebration where warmth of heart outshines the Arctic cold and Santa's legend feels beautifully, magically real.

Fun Facts: Christmas in Finland

🎄 Forest Trees for the birds: Many families decorate a "Christmas tree for the birds" outdoors with seeds, apples, and suet as a gift to wildlife.

🎄 Lumilyhdyt (Snow Lanterns): Children pack snow into hollow mounds and place candles inside to make glowing snow lanterns along walkways and yards.

🎄 Santa's Mail: Finland has a post office in Santa Claus Village, where volunteers respond to letters sent from around the world, marked "Santa, Finland."

🎄 Polar Peace: Every year at noon on December 24, Finland broadcasts the Declaration of Christmas Peace from Turku—a tradition that dates back over 700 years.