Looking for the perfect Christmas city break in 2025? Helsinki offers a unique blend of Nordic charm, timeless traditions, and a warm festive atmosphere. With its historic Christmas markets, seasonal street lighting, artisan crafts, and delicious local treats, Helsinki is a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
Helsinki Christmas Market, Senate Square
Dates: 28 November–22 December 2025
Location: Senate Square (Senaatintori)
Helsinki's most iconic Christmas market takes place in the historic Senate Square, surrounded by neoclassical architecture and the majestic Helsinki Cathedral. With over 100 stalls, this market offers Finnish design, handmade gifts, local delicacies, and mulled wine (glögi). The traditional carousel and daily performances add to the family-friendly holiday spirit.
Dates: 15–22 December 2025
Location: Old Student House
The Old Student House Christmas Market, held in a historic venue in the city center, features a wide selection of gifts, treats, and decorations crafted by skilled local artisans and small businesses. Spread over two floors, the market offers unique home décor, jewelry, graphics, ceramics, and design items — all carefully made to bring festive joy.
Aleksanterinkatu in Helsinki
Opening ceremony: 22 November 2025
Location: Aleksanterinkatu & city centre
The official Christmas season in Helsinki begins with the lighting of Aleksanterinkatu, known as the city’s "Christmas Street." Strolling under the festive lights, visitors can enjoy pop-up stalls, window displays, and nearby cafés offering seasonal treats like gingerbread and rice porridge.
Dates: 20–21 December 2025
Location: Teurastamo
The event gathers there both entrepreneurs and artisans selling Christmas delicacies and handicraft. Teurastamo is the former Helsinki abattoir from 1933, re-opened in 2012. It is a melting pot of food and urban culture.
Date: Sunday 14 December 2025
Location: Seurasaari Open-Air Museum
For one day only, families can walk the magical Christmas Path through the island of Seurasaari. This beloved event brings Finnish folklore, traditional Christmas customs, and nature together – with bonfires, fairy tale characters, and free holiday treats for children.