easy
3 hours
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; requires only short periods of walking in snow and sitting during sleigh rides.
Step into a Finnish winter wonderland with Northern Lights Village Saariselkä’s "Searching for Santa". Bake gingerbread, ride a reindeer-drawn sleigh, and visit Santa’s secret cabin for a truly unique family holiday experience.
Meet Santa and Santa's Little Helper Elf | Unforgettable Christmas Experience
Embark on a magical adventure in Northern Lights Village, where families can bake gingerbread with an Elf, ride a reindeer-drawn sleigh, and search for Santa’s secret cabin. Enjoy a personalized meeting with Santa and receive a special gift, creating unforgettable memories in a winter wonderland.
3 Hours
Searching for Santa is a set of playful, unforgettable Christmas experiences for the young and the young at heart, set in Northern Lights Village.
Santa’s little helper Elf will meet you and other participating families and be your guide for the day. The day starts with gingerbread baking at the elves' turf house kitchen.
After the cookie moment, the Elf will take you to meet Santa’s flying reindeer. Unfortunately, the reindeer only fly on Christmas night, but you get to take a (short) ride on the reindeer-drawn sleigh through the snowy forest instead.
Then, it is time to go searching for Santa’s secret cabin. The Snowmobile-Elf will take your family on a heated sleigh ride into the forest. If you can find the cabin, Santa will most likely welcome your family in for a private chat and offer a symbolical gift.
Please note that upon arrival, the reception team will hand over an invitation letter from the Elves, to join them in their quest to find Santa!
Thermal overalls and mittens are provided, but wear moisture-wicking base layers to stay warm and dry during outdoor sleigh rides.
Slots fill quickly during December; reserve your family’s spot well in advance to secure the best times.
The sleigh ride into the forest traverses snowy terrain, so attentive supervision is necessary for young kids' safety and enjoyment.
Even with thermal gear, temperatures can dip sharply; bring extra socks and hand warmers for comfort.
Lapland’s rich folklore includes elves (known locally as 'tonttu') who were once believed to guard farms and homes. These legends inform the holiday lore embraced by the Northern Lights Village.
Northern Lights Village places strong emphasis on minimizing environmental impact, promoting sustainable travel practices and respecting the fragile Arctic ecosystem.
Keep your core warm throughout the snowy forest excursions.
winter specific
Stay dry and stable on snow-covered terrain during sleigh rides and walks.
winter specific
Protect extremities from frostbite in the Arctic chill.
winter specific
Cold reduces battery life; capture moments with backups on hand.
winter specific