Finland Christmas Markets 2024

The holiday season goes hand-in-hand with Christmas markets and festive light displays in pretty much every city throughout Europe. But in northern countries like Finland, such events are essential. Locals and tourists alike adore gift shopping and feasting on seasonal treats at local Christmas fairs, which typically run from late November through late December. You can explore the possibilities below to choose your next destination.

Helsinki Christmas Market (November 29–December 22, 2024)

Most Christmas lovers head to Helsinki Christmas Market. Tuomaan Markkinat, or St. Thomas Christmas Market, turns Senate Square into a true winter wonderland. The visitors can shop at 140 stalls, and kids ride on the old-fashioned merry-go-round, set in the center of the square. After Christmas shopping, the jolly people can immerse themselves in holiday lights along Aleksanterinkatu, the capital's official Christmas street. For more wintertime fun, market-goers can go ice skating at the rink next to the railway station. The market is open Sunday–Thursday from 11 am to 7 pm and Friday–Saturday from 11 am to 8 pm. Admission is free.

Turku Christmas Market (November 23–December 15, 2024, weekends only)

Turku is the oldest town in the country. Dating back to the 13th century, Turku is often called Christmas City. In late November, visitors can see the Declaration of Christmas Peace ceremony and visit the official Christmas street, Yliopistonkatu. Turku Christmas Market boasts two locations: the Market Square and the Old Great Square. The latter location features plenty of delicious food, family-friendly entertainment, and concerts. The market at the Old Great Square is open from 11 am to 5 pm.

Tampere Christmas Market (November 30–December 22, 2024)

Tampere is Finland’s second-largest city, boasting a bustling Christmas market in Keskustori with a distinctly artistic vibe. Dozens of stalls offer all kinds of arts, crafts, and specialty foods. In addition, the market features plenty of concerts, shows, theatre performances, various demonstrations, workshops, and visits from Santa Claus throughout December. The market is open from 11 am to 7 pm.

Rovaniemi Christmas Village (all year round)

Southern Finland can't always guarantee a white Christmas. If you prefer snow-blanketed landscapes, reach deeper north and visit Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, the famous capital of Lapland. Rovaniemi is famous for handmade crafts, Christmas decor, Finnish designs, delicious cuisine, and fun activities like reindeer rides and winter hikes.

Tiernatori Christmas Market (December 7-22, 2024)

Thanks to its northern location Oulu also has a solid chance of a white Christmas. Nordic holiday cheer awaits visitors at the Tiernatori Christmas Market, taking place in central Rotuaari Square every December. This cozy Christmas Market is filled with handmade decor and traditional Finnish gifts and fare. The market hosts a stage with concerts and carol singing. The city also boasts many Ule goats, traditional Finnish Christmas decorations.

Jyväskyla Christmas Markets (November 23–December 1, 2024, select dates)

Jyväskyla is famous for its Christmas illuminations and outdoor festivities at Jyväskylä Christmas Village in Church Park. The city hosts several Christmas markets during the season. The weekend-long Artisan’s Christmas Market, located inside the Craft Museum, boasts stalls by local craftsmen with apparel, jewelry, woodwork, decorations, and more. Christmas concerts, Christmas dinners, and a special holiday sauna complete the experience.

You can find more information on each of the events on the list in the External Resources below. Also, take a look at the map, suggesting the best accommodations nearby. Book your stay in advance to make sure everything is settled for your perfect Christmas getaway in Finland.