How to Be Ready for Christmas in Finland

Vol 28, Issue 13, 12 December 2025

Christmas is one of the biggest celebrations all over the world, but in Finland, Christmas is a big deal. It’s cozy, peaceful, and full of small traditions that make winter feel warmer, even in the middle of cold weather.

Celebrating Christmas is not complicated or expensive, but it makes you more connected to the community, especially if you are living alone for the first time or are new in Finland. Finnish Christmas is all about simple joys, good food, and spending time with people you care about. Here’s an easy guide to help you prepare like a local.

The first step is getting into the atmosphere. In Finland, the Christmas spirit starts in late November, and people start to put up lights on their balconies, windows, gardens, and trees outside. Because the days are so dark, these lights make the city feel brighter and more alive. You just need a small and simple string of warm lights to make your home feel more Finnish.

Probably you see the Christmas market in your hometown, but if not, there is one in almost every city, even in small ones. If you never visit one of these markets, I suggest doing this, maybe you could see Santa there. The markets are full of handmade crafts, traditional and warm drinks, and foods. You’ll see things like wool socks, candles, wooden decorations, and traditional pastries. Even if you don’t buy anything, just walking around with a cup of hot glögi (Finnish mulled wine).

Gingerbread houses are one of the most fun Christmas activities in Finland. You can buy ready-made kits from stores and build and decorate your own gingerbread house alone or with friends. Food is also a big part of Finnish Christmas. The traditional dinner usually includes ham, casseroles like carrot, potato, and swede, salmon, and plenty of bread that you can either bake yourself or easily find in supermarkets.

If you’re looking for a simple and popular Finnish dessert, joulutorttu is the perfect choice, a little star-shaped pastry filled with jam. They’re super easy to bake at home and will make your whole place smell amazing. The important thing to note is that in Finland, holidays are all about relaxation. Take it easy, treat yourself to a sauna, and enjoy this classic Finnish tradition before the Christmas season.

When it comes to gifts, Finns prefer practical and meaningful things. It doesn’t need to be expensive. Warm socks, candles, books, or handmade items are very appreciated.

Finally, don’t forget about the Christmas Eve traditions. In Finland, Christmas Eve is more important than Christmas Day. People decorate the tree, eat dinner, exchange gifts, and watch old movies like “Snowman” or “Joulurauhan julistus”.

So, to be ready for Christmas in Finland, keep it simple: lights, good food, a little glögi, maybe some sauna, and a peaceful mood. Finnish Christmas isn’t about rushing. It’s about slowing down, enjoying the dark winter days, and finding small moments of warmth. That’s what makes Christmas in Finland so special.