Christmas is a magical time for families with young children, and nothing could be more thrilling for kids than an adventure-packed family winter break in Lapland, land of thick snow, cozy cabins and even Father Christmas himself. But while a Santa-themed holiday may seem like it would appeal only to very young children, there are plenty of thrills in store for teens and adults as well. Here, Best Served Santa specialist Steff Sargeant checks out the options.
Meeting Santa
Santa at Inari
While the idea of visiting Santa appeals to very young children, the reality of Arctic conditions can be challenging. Temperatures drop well below freezing, and much of the experience takes place outdoors. For this reason, Santa holidays are best suited to children aged five and above, when they’re better able to enjoy the activities and cope with the cold. That said, these trips are brilliant for multi‑generational families and groups of friends. There’s something about being surrounded by deep snow that gives everyone permission to release their inner child – whether that’s racing down a toboggan run or getting caught up in a spontaneous snowball fight.
There's no doubt that the highlight of your youngsters’ trip will be an encounter with the man himself. Therefore, if your meeting with Santa is private – as it is at many of our featured resorts – you can often share personal details in advance to make the encounter feel wonderfully tailored. Santa might mention a favourite hobby, a beloved pet or something from the child’s wish list. In some destinations, it’s even possible to smuggle in a small gift for Santa to hand over, replacing the generic present with something meaningful from home. It’s a simple touch that makes the moment unforgettable.
And remember: part of the joy is embracing the fantasy. Santa is old, his memory occasionally wobbles, and children are often struck speechless when they finally meet him. Having a funny story or question ready – “How do you keep your beard so white?” – can help break the ice.
Winter sports to get everyone moving
Snowmobiling in Harriniva
Lapland’s winter adventures are designed with families in mind, blending gentle thrills with moments of pure, snow‑covered joy. Snowmobiling is tightly regulated, with strict laws ensuring everyone’s safety: adults travel two per machine, swapping driving duties halfway, while children are wrapped up warmly in a sled pulled behind the guide. It’s an exhilarating way to explore the wilderness, yet still accessible for all ages. Husky sledding offers the same sense of adventure, whether you choose to sit back as a musher leads the team or take the reins yourself; younger children can again be pulled behind the guide, making it a wonderfully inclusive experience.
For a cultural adventure, you can also arrange a cultural encounter with the indigenous Sámi people, whose history goes back ten thousand years before Christmas. Historically semi-nomadic, the Sámi long migrated with the reindeer, and developed incredible techniques to survive the long, cold winters - getting to know these people is the key to getting to know Lapland.
Northern Lights excursions
Northern Lights in Finland
Northern Lights “hunts” often take place late in the evening and can run for several hours – not ideal for younger children. Instead, consider staying at a resort away from light pollution, where you can watch the aurora from your doorstep, your cabin window or even your bed. It’s a calmer, more comfortable way for families to experience the magic.
Where to stay on your holiday
Arctic Treehouse Hotel, Rovaniemi
Contrary to popular myth, Father Christmas does not live at the North Pole, but just inside the Arctic Circle in Finnish Lapland – where there is ample grazing for Rudolph and his chums over the summer months. Our sweet-talking specialists have persuaded Santa to be on hand at specific wilderness resorts, even on the busy run-up to the festive period.
For a classic, snow‑dusted escape, Harriniva in Muonio remains one of Lapland’s most wonderfully family-friendly settings. Surrounded by pristine forest and close to the frozen River Muonio, it’s the base for our Harriniva Santa Break, an exclusive departure that pairs cosy accommodation with private Santa visits and a full programme of winter activities. Further north, the Inari Santa Break offers a more intimate take on the season. Set on the shores of Lake Inari, a region steeped in Sámi culture, these traditional cabins provide a peaceful retreat with crackling fires, snowy woodland trails and some of Lapland’s clearest skies for Northern Lights viewing.
If you prefer to stay near Rovaniemi, two standout options bring a touch of contemporary style to the Arctic. Apukka Resort combines playful design with an eclectic mix of accommodation, from glass‑roofed Aurora cabins to lakeside suites, forming the base for our Santa at Apukka Resort itinerary. It’s ideal for families wanting comfort, variety and easy access to Santa’s village. Meanwhile, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel offers a more luxurious take on the season, with Scandinavian‑chic suites featuring floor‑to‑ceiling glass that frames snowy treetops and, with luck, the Northern Lights.
