All You Need to Know About Christmas in Helsinki
Lights, Flavours and Nordic Magic
Helsinki transforms into a city of light, flavour and festive joy as winter arrives. The Finnish capital celebrates Christmas with a uniquely Nordic balance of calm and cheer – where candlelight, sea breeze and joyful encounters create a season full of warmth and wonder.
The festive season begins on 22 November with the Opening of the Christmas Street on Aleksanterinkatu, when the city’s iconic Christmas lights are switched on, filling the main shopping street with a warm seasonal glow all the way to Senate Square. The nearby Esplanade Park is also beautifully illuminated, its trees and walkways adorned with elegant winter lights that invite visitors to stroll and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
A highlight of the season is Lucia Day on 13 December, when Helsinki crowns its own Lucia to bring light into the darkest time of the year. Dressed in white with a crown of candles, Lucia leads a procession from Helsinki Cathedral through the city centre, spreading warmth, light and a sense of togetherness. The Finnish Lucia tradition dates back to the 1950s and remains one of the most cherished symbols of hope and brightness in the Nordic winter.
The celebration of light continues into the new year with Lux Helsinki (4–8 January 2026), a spectacular light art festival that illuminates landmarks, parks and hidden corners across the city. Showcasing both Finnish and international artists, Lux Helsinki brings creative brilliance to the darkest time of year and offers a stunning finale to the festive season.
Lucia, the bringer of light, brightens the darkness of winter on December 13. Photo: Jussi Hellsten, City of Helsinki
Christmas Markets and Festive Highlights
Helsinki’s Christmas season is a feast for all senses – from the scent of glögi (mulled wine) and gingerbread cookies to traditional Finnish Christmas dishes and modern seasonal menus. Visitors can enjoy festive lunches, sweet pastries and spiced coffees, or discover local delicacies at the city’s atmospheric markets and food halls. Many of Helsinki’s acclaimed restaurants also serve special Christmas lunches, making the festive season a perfect time to experience the city’s warm and atmospheric dining scene.
The most beloved events bring together tradition, design and local spirit throughout the season:
- Helsinki Christmas Market (28 Nov – 22 Dec, Senate Square) – The city’s oldest and most charming outdoor market, offering crafts, design, food and a nostalgic carousel. Featured this year on Condé Nast Traveller’s list of the Best Christmas Markets in Europe.
- Manta’s Christmas Market (5 Dec – 6 Jan, closed 24–25 Dec) – A vibrant new addition around the Havis Amanda statue with sweet treats, live events and a festive pavilion.
- Teurastamo Christmas Market (20–21 Dec) – Urban and creative, featuring artisanal food, design and live music in the Kalasatama district.
- Traditional Sunday Market at Hakaniemi Square (7 Dec) – The square comes alive with traditional stalls offering local produce, handmade gifts and Christmas treats. Visitors can continue exploring festive flavours and seasonal products inside the Hakaniemi Market Hall.
- Korttelit Art Festival (28 Nov – 7 Jan) – A new open-air art experience in the historic Torikorttelit district, blending contemporary art and festive light.
Beyond the festivities, Christmas in Helsinki is also a time for peaceful reflection and local traditions. Public saunas across the city remain open throughout the holidays, inviting visitors to relax and experience the Finnish way of finding warmth in winter. From candlelight concerts to tranquil walks by the sea, the city offers countless ways to embrace the calm and beauty of the season.
Find all Christmas events and seasonal tips at MyHelsinki.fi