When people think of Rovaniemi, they often imagine snow-covered forests, Santa Claus, and the magical glow of the Northern Lights. But there’s a whole other side to Lapland’s capital—Rovaniemi in summer. The land of the Midnight Sun transforms into a vibrant, green haven bursting with life, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities.
In this post, we explore the top things to do in Rovaniemi in summer, offering you a perfect guide for making the most of your Arctic holiday—without a snowflake in sight.
1. Visit Santa Claus Village – Yes, Even in Summer!
Santa Claus doesn’t take a summer vacation! His village is open year-round, and summer is a great time to visit with fewer crowds and longer days.
Things to do at Santa Claus Village in summer:
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Cross the magical Arctic Circle line (in 3 different ways)
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Meet Santa Claus in person
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Send postcards with the special Arctic Circle postmark
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Explore souvenir shops, cafés, and the Santa Claus Main Post Office
With green meadows replacing snowdrifts, you’ll get to see a new, unique side of the village.
2. Meet the Santa Claus Reindeer Herd
Your summer trip to Rovaniemi wouldn’t be complete without visiting us at Santa Claus Reindeer. While our reindeer rest from sleigh-pulling duties, they love meeting visitors during the warmer months.
Summer experiences with reindeer:
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Feed and pet our friendly reindeer
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Learn about culture and reindeer herding
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Capture unforgettable family photos in the summer sun
Reindeer are a central part of Lapland’s identity, and summer provides the perfect chance for up-close, relaxed encounters.
3. Midnight Sun Magic at Santa Claus Village
From late May to mid-July, the Midnight Sun bathes Santa Claus Village in golden light around the clock—day becomes a dreamlike experience where night never falls. It’s the perfect setting to soak in the enchanting summer atmosphere of the Arctic Circle.
Ways to enjoy the Midnight Sun at Santa Claus Village:
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Cross the Arctic Circle line under the midnight light—an unforgettable moment!
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Meet Santa Claus in a glow that feels truly magical
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Enjoy an evening stroll through the forest paths around the village, glowing in soft amber hues
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Dine or sip coffee outdoors, basking in the never-ending daylight
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Take golden-hour photos with reindeer, log cabins, and iconic Arctic landmarks as your backdrop
The peaceful energy and surreal beauty of Santa Claus Village under the Midnight Sun is unlike anywhere else on Earth. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends natural wonder with timeless Christmas spirit.
4. Go Wild Berry and Mushroom Picking
Nature is abundant in Lapland, and foraging is a beloved Finnish pastime.
Best times:
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Wild blueberries: mid-July to August
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Lingonberries and cloudberries: late summer
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Mushrooms: August through early autumn
You can join a guided tour or simply wander into the forest with a basket. Many locals will tell you this is the most relaxing way to connect with Rovaniemi’s nature.
5. Take a River Cruise or Fishing Trip
Rovaniemi sits at the confluence of two major rivers—the Kemijoki and Ounasjoki—making it ideal for water-based exploration.
Activities to enjoy:
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Sunset river cruises with local guides
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Fishing excursions for trout, grayling, and pike
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Canoeing or boating for a slow-paced nature escape
You’ll get a unique perspective of the landscape and maybe spot local birds and beavers.
6. Relax in a Finnish Sauna by the Lake
No matter the season, saunas are part of Finnish life. In summer, combine your sauna experience with a refreshing dip in a lake.
Summer sauna highlights:
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Traditional smoke saunas by the water
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Floating saunas on the river
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Sauna packages with lakeside BBQs or drinks
After a day of adventures, it’s the perfect way to unwind and soak in the Lapland atmosphere.
Plan Your Summer Visit to Rovaniemi
Whether you’re coming for the reindeer, the nature, or the cultural experiences, there are countless things to do in Rovaniemi in summer. It’s the perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking peace, natural beauty, and a touch of Arctic magic.
Ready to meet our reindeer or plan a custom summer experience in Lapland? Contact Santa Claus Reindeer and let us help you create a warm-weather adventure you’ll never forget.