Information about Northern Lights
The northern lights, also known as aurora borealis, is a natural phenomenon occurring in the polar region of the northern hemisphere. The southern equivalent is called southern lights or aurora australis.
This magical phenomenon is created when the charged particles released from the sun’s atmosphere reach the earth. This solar wind first hits the earth’s magnetic field and is then directed towards the poles, where the magnetic field is weaker. Through the poles some particles of the solar wind reach earth’s atmosphere and react with the oxygen and nitrogen molecules, causing a chemical reaction we see as a magnificent light show.
Due to the northern lights being a natural phenomenon, their activity is very hard to predict accurately. However, by following the weather and northern light forecasts one can partly predict their occurrence. An ideal time and place for the northern lights hunt is a dark, starry night at a remote location without any light pollution, and with an open view towards the north.
Northern Lights in Finland: Magic in the Arctic Sky
What Are the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are nature’s most dazzling cosmic show. When charged particles from the sun collide with Earth’s magnetic field, they ignite in the atmosphere—painting the sky with emerald, violet, and sometimes even red curtains of light.
Why Finland & Lapland?
Finland, especially Lapland, sits at the very edge of the auroral oval—making it one of the best inhabited places on Earth to witness this spectacle. Rovaniemi, located at the Arctic Circle, is an ideal base with frequent sightings and minimal light pollution.
When to Watch the Skies
Auroras dance in Finland from late August through April, with the longest and darkest nights—October to March—offering prime viewing opportunities. Generally, the best time to catch the lights is between 9 pm and 2 am under clear skies.
A chance to see northern lights riding in reindeer sleigh
Step into the magic of a snowy Arctic evening, where reindeer lead the way through a peaceful forest trail. As the stars twinkle above—and with luck, the Northern Lights dance across the sky—we’ll make our way to a hilltop hideaway. There, a cozy Lappish tepee and a crackling fire invite you to relax, enjoy the view, and share moments together. Along the way, we’ll meet the reindeer up close and treat them to their favourite snack. A memorable night under the northern sky awaits in the heart of Rovaniemi.
Best Viewing Tips
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Go Away from Lights: The further north and darker the surroundings, the clearer the auroras will be.
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Check Forecasts: Use both weather and space weather (solar activity) forecasts. Finland’s Meteorological Institute and aurora apps can guide you
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Bundle with Cozy Tours: Cloudy nights happen—so it’s wise to join guided tours that include reindeer sleigh rides, warm shelters, and local storytelling.
Why Join Santa Claus Reindeer’s Northern Lights Safari?
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Reindeer Sleigh Magic: Glide into the Arctic wilderness under the aurora on a traditional reindeer sleigh and capture the moment in all its wonder.
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Expert Guidance: Our guides know when and where to go—so you don’t just chase lights; you experience their story.
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Comfort & Character: Stay warm as you wait, surrounded by the stillness of Lapland’s winter forest—made even more magical by the dancing lights above.
Explore more tips
Explore Rovaniemi autumn activities >>
About reindeer >>
Practical information >>
Santa Claus Village >>
Stories about the Northern Lights >>
Stories from Lapland >>
