Fun Facts About Rovaniemi – Discover the Quirky Side of the Arctic

Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is a place full of magic, mystery, and unique stories. While it's best known as the official hometown of Santa Claus and a prime spot to witness the Northern Lights, this city has plenty of quirky and fascinating facts that make it even more enchanting. Here are some fun facts about Rovaniemi that will add a little extra sparkle to your Arctic adventure!
1. Rovaniemi is Shaped Like a Reindeer’s Head!
Did you know that Rovaniemi’s city plan resembles a reindeer’s head? After World War II, most of Rovaniemi was destroyed, and the city needed to be rebuilt. The famous Finnish architect Alvar Aalto was tasked with designing the new layout, and he drew inspiration from Lapland’s most iconic animal – the reindeer. The main roads and streets form an outline that looks like the head of a reindeer, with the highways resembling antlers. It’s a fitting tribute to the region’s wildlife and a fun way to explore the city!
2. The Arctic Circle Runs Right Through the City
Rovaniemi is one of the few cities in the world that lies directly on the Arctic Circle. In fact, you can visit the Santa Claus Village, just 8 kilometers north of the city center, where the Arctic Circle is marked by a white line that you can cross on foot. Every year, thousands of visitors come to step over this invisible boundary into the realm of the Arctic. Don’t forget to take a photo while crossing the line – you’ll have proof that you’ve officially entered the land of the midnight sun and polar nights!
3. The Midnight Sun and Polar Night Magic
Speaking of the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi experiences the natural wonders of both the Midnight Sun and the Polar Night. In the summer, the sun doesn’t set for several weeks, creating a magical period known as the Midnight Sun. During this time, you can enjoy endless daylight – perfect for late-night hikes or a round of golf at midnight! On the other hand, winter brings the Polar Night, when the sun barely rises above the horizon. But don’t worry, the snow and the Northern Lights create a soft glow that makes the dark season just as beautiful.
4. Home of the World’s Most Famous Resident: Santa Claus!
Yes, Santa Claus officially calls Rovaniemi his home. The Santa Claus Village, located on the Arctic Circle, is a year-round holiday wonderland where you can meet Santa and his elves. Santa’s Main Post Office, part of the village, receives hundreds of thousands of letters from children around the world every year. When you visit, you can even send a postcard with an official Arctic Circle postmark – a truly unique souvenir!
5. Rovaniemi Is a Real Life “Christmas Town”
Rovaniemi takes Christmas seriously. So seriously, in fact, that it’s Christmas here every day! In addition to the Santa Claus Village, the city’s streets are adorned with festive lights, and you can enjoy Christmas-themed events throughout the year. It’s like stepping into a snow globe – no matter when you visit, the spirit of Christmas is always in the air.
6. You Can Swim in the Arctic Waters – Year-Round!
Feeling brave? In Rovaniemi, it’s possible to swim in the icy waters of the Arctic Circle. The locals call it "avantouinti" or ice swimming. During winter, holes are cut into the frozen lakes and rivers, creating natural "ice pools." After a steamy sauna session, Finns jump into the freezing water for a quick dip, which is said to boost circulation and leave you feeling revitalized. If that sounds a bit extreme, summer brings more leisurely swimming opportunities in the lakes and rivers, though the water is still refreshingly cool!
9. Reindeer Outnumber People
In Lapland, reindeer are everywhere – quite literally! It’s estimated that there are more reindeer than people in the region. In Rovaniemi, you might spot these gentle creatures roaming freely or resting in snowy fields as you drive or explore the countryside. You can even visit a reindeer farm to learn more about their role in Sámi culture and try your hand at reindeer sledding.
10. Rovaniemi Has Its Own “Lumberjack’s Candle”
Crossing the Kemijoki River, the Jätkänkynttilä (Lumberjack’s Candle) Bridge is one of Rovaniemi’s iconic landmarks. The bridge gets its name from the two tall pillars that resemble a traditional "lumberjack’s candle," a type of log cut to burn brightly. Illuminated at night, the bridge serves as a tribute to Rovaniemi’s history as a logging and timber trade center, connecting the past to the present.
11. Birthplace of Arktikum's Famous Glass Tunnel
Arktikum, the Arctic science museum and cultural center in Rovaniemi, features a stunning glass tunnel that extends toward the Ounasjoki River. This design marvel was inspired by the idea of a crack in the ice, providing a window to the Arctic world. In summer, sunlight streams through the glass, while in winter, it offers a cozy spot to admire the snowy landscape outside.
12. It’s Not Always Cold – Summers Can Get Warm!
Although Rovaniemi is known for its snowy winters, the summers can surprise you with warm weather. From June to August, temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F) – perfect for hiking, canoeing, and enjoying the midnight sun. It’s a wonderful time to explore Rovaniemi's lush forests, tranquil lakes, and rolling hills under the endless daylight.
13. Rovaniemi Hosts an Annual “Reindeer Cup” Race
Rovaniemi is home to an annual event that’s truly unique to Lapland – the Reindeer Cup! During the winter season, reindeer and their Sámi herders compete in races where reindeer pull skiers through a track at breakneck speeds. This thrilling spectacle not only showcases the strong bond between the herders and their reindeer but also gives visitors a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the region. If you're lucky enough to be in Rovaniemi during one of these events, it's an experience you won't want to miss!
14. The Northern Lights Shine on Average 200 Nights a Year
Rovaniemi is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights. Thanks to its location within the Aurora Zone, Rovaniemi experiences the Aurora Borealis on around 200 nights a year! While there’s never a guaranteed sighting, the odds are definitely in your favor if you stay for a few nights and head away from city lights.
15. Rovaniemi Has a “Christmas Radio Station”
The Christmas spirit is strong in Rovaniemi – so strong that they even have their very own Christmas radio station, Radio Christmas. It broadcasts festive tunes, holiday greetings, and news from Santa’s Village, especially during the holiday season. Tune in while you explore the city to keep the festive mood alive!
16. Rovaniemi is a UNESCO City of Design
Rovaniemi may be in the Arctic wilderness, but it’s also a hub of creativity and innovation. In 2019, Rovaniemi was recognized as a UNESCO City of Design for its dedication to design education, sustainable development, and Arctic expertise. The University of Lapland's Faculty of Art and Design plays a key role in this, promoting design thinking that reflects the city’s unique northern environment.
17. Arctic Swimming Championships Take Place Here
Yes, you read that right! Every year, Rovaniemi hosts the Arctic Swimming Championships, where participants brave the freezing temperatures to swim in the icy waters of the Kemijoki River. The event is a combination of athleticism and Arctic madness, attracting daring swimmers from around the world. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even give it a try yourself!
18. Rovaniemi Has an Arctic Spa Tradition
Rovaniemi isn’t just about saunas; it’s also a destination for Arctic spa experiences. You’ll find outdoor hot tubs and spa retreats nestled in the snowy forests, where you can soak in warm water while gazing at the stars (or even the Northern Lights). The combination of hot steam, cold air, and serene surroundings creates a unique way to unwind and connect with nature.
19. The City Hosts a Winter Cycling Event
Cycling in winter? Yes, it’s a thing in Rovaniemi! Each February, the city hosts the Rovaniemi150 Arctic Winter Race, where cyclists, runners, and skiers compete on a grueling 150-kilometer track through snowy forests and frozen rivers. Participants can choose from different distances, including 66 km, 150 km, or the ultimate challenge of 300 km. It's an incredible event for extreme sports enthusiasts and a testament to the adventurous spirit of the north.
20. You Can Visit Santa’s Secret Forest – Joulukka
Hidden in the forests around Rovaniemi is Joulukka, a magical place where Santa’s elves prepare for Christmas year-round. This secret forest offers visitors an exclusive and immersive experience where you can bake gingerbread cookies with elves, visit Santa’s Command Center, and learn about the secrets of Christmas magic. It’s a magical adventure that brings out the child in everyone!
21. Rovaniemi Has a “Gold Rush” History
In the 19th century, Lapland experienced its own gold rush! Prospectors flocked to the area around Rovaniemi, particularly to the nearby Lemmenjoki River, in search of the precious metal. To this day, you can try your luck at gold panning in Rovaniemi and its surroundings. Some operators even offer gold panning experiences during summer, where you can learn the techniques used by prospectors and see if you can strike it rich.
22. Home to the World’s Northernmost McDonald's
For a fun little fact: Rovaniemi is home to the world’s northernmost McDonald’s! If you’re craving a taste of something familiar while exploring the Arctic, you can grab a burger and fries at this famous fast-food joint located in the heart of the city.
23. Rovaniemi is Santa Claus’s Official “Airport”
Rovaniemi’s airport, located just 10 minutes from Santa Claus Village, is known as Santa’s official airport. During the holiday season, it becomes one of the busiest airports in Finland, as visitors from all over the world fly in to experience the magic of Christmas. The airport itself embraces the festive spirit, with Santa-themed decorations and even special Santa’s Flight services!
24. The World’s Only “Arctic Circle Husky Park”
Rovaniemi is home to the Arctic Circle Husky Park, where you can meet and go sledding with a pack of friendly huskies. The park is located right in Santa Claus Village, and you can take a short husky ride around the Arctic Circle or a longer adventure into the surrounding forests. These hardworking dogs are an essential part of Arctic life and an absolute joy to meet!
Embrace the Uniqueness of Rovaniemi!
Rovaniemi is full of surprises, with quirky attractions, fun traditions, and unique experiences around every corner. From its festive spirit and reindeer-inspired city layout to its daring winter sports and secret Christmas forests, this Arctic city is bursting with character and charm. So, as you explore Rovaniemi, keep an eye out for these fun facts – they’ll add an extra layer of magic to your Arctic adventure!