Winter in Lapland is magical, but sometimes the temperatures drop so low that outdoor activities like husky rides or skiing become too cold—especially when it hits -30°C or colder.
And it’s not just the visitors who are affected; animals, too, need a break from the harsh conditions, which means many activities close down on these extreme cold days.
So, what can you do if that happens? Don’t worry! Here are some great activities your family can enjoy, even on the coldest days.
1. Frozen Bubble Blowing
One of the simple yet magical things about arctic weather is that you can blow bubbles that freeze in mid-air! It’s an easy and quick activity, perfect for short bursts of outdoor fun before the cold becomes too much. Plus, they look amazing in pictures!
All you need is a bottle of bubble solution, and in the frigid air, the bubbles will transform into delicate frozen spheres that often won’t even pop when they land. These icy orbs offer a mesmerizing, quick science lesson right in the snow!
2. Ice Lantern Crafting
On bitterly cold days, making ice lanterns is a simple yet beautiful craft that doesn’t require much time outside. Finns often use buckets, but balloons, milk cartons or other containers work just as well.
Step 1: Fill your container with water.
Step 2: Place it outside in freezing temperatures.
Step 3: Let the water partially freeze—just enough to form a thick outer layer, but keep the center liquid.
Step 4: Flip the container upside down and pour hot water over it to loosen the ice.
Step 5: Carefully lift the container off and pour out the remaining water inside.
Step 6: Place a candle inside your ice lantern and enjoy the magical glow!
You can also get creative by adding leaves, flowers, or even napkins inside the water before freezing, making each lantern unique! It’s a perfect way to create a stunning, frosty display that lasts throughout your stay.
3. Indoor Playgrounds, Swimming hall and Museums
When it’s too cold to stay outside for long, Rovaniemi has plenty of indoor options to keep the whole family entertained.
For active kids, RolloHalli is a popular indoor playground and trampoline park, perfect for burning off energy. (They are on a christmas holiday from 26th December till 6th of January.)
If you’re looking for something educational, visit the Arktikum and Pilke museums, where kids can learn about Arctic nature, culture, and sustainability through interactive exhibits.
For some fun in the water, head to Uimahalli Vesihiisi, Rovaniemi’s swimming hall, offering warm pools, water slides, and a spa area.
And don’t forget Santa Park, an underground wonderland where kids can meet Santa and his elves, explore ice sculptures, and participate in festive activities year-round! For a guided tour, check GetYourGuide*.
4. Bake Finnish Treats Together
If you’re staying in accommodation with a kitchen, why not bake some traditional Finnish treats like cinnamon buns (korvapuusti) or gingerbread cookies (piparkakut)? It’s a cozy way to pass the time, and you’ll have something delicious to enjoy with a hot chocolate afterward!
You can also find ready-made gingerbread dough in stores, which is super tasty! All you need to do is roll it out and start cutting fun shapes to bake in the oven. There are also ready-made icing kits available for decorating your cookies.
And if you’re feeling ambitious, why not try building an entire gingerbread house?
5. Perfect picture moments
Freezing cold days are often when Lapland shows off its best scenery.
The trees are coated in a thick layer of frost, turning the forests into a stunning winter wonderland. The soft, pale sunlight that filters through the frozen landscape gives everything a magical, icy glow, and the world feels perfectly still and quiet. These are the moments that make for breathtaking photos, capturing the unique beauty of the arctic.
6. Finnish Indoor Saunas & Heated Pools
Many accommodations in Lapland come with saunas, which are the perfect way to warm up after spending time outside in the cold. On those extremely chilly days, it’s totally fine to enjoy the sauna more than once—Finns often do!
It’s common to sip a cold beer or soda while relaxing in the sauna, and between steam sessions, some will cool off on the terrace. The bravest might even take a leap into the snow for a true Finnish experience!
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