Kiruna: Celebration of Christmas

Planning a winter trip to the far north? The Kiruna: Celebration of Christmas tour offers a delightful mix of Sámi culture, traditional winter cuisine, and the chance to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. With a friendly 4.7 rating from Explore Arctic, this four-hour experience promises an authentic taste of Lapland’s holiday spirit, all for $197 per person. While the price may seem steep, the value lies in the intimate cultural insights, the cozy setting, and the unforgettable Arctic sky show.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to combine culture with nature’s spectacle, especially those who enjoy good food and storytelling. It’s also well-suited for first-timers in the Arctic who want a balanced, authentic experience without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. That said, be prepared for outdoor cold weather, as some parts of the tour are conducted outside, and there’s no guarantee on the Northern Lights’ appearance—nature remains unpredictable.

What we love about this experience is how it combines warmth and tradition in a setting that feels both intimate and adventurous. The delicious Sámi dinner, the guides’ storytelling, and the aurora chase create a memorable, well-rounded package. The only small consideration is that, like any Aurora tour, it’s weather-dependent; if the skies are cloudy, the lights might not appear. Still, the journey and cultural highlights make this a worthwhile adventure for those seeking more than just a sightseeing trip.

Good To Know

• Authentic Sámi cuisine served in a cozy outdoor BBQ hut
• Expert guides with real-time Aurora forecasts enhance your chances of seeing the Northern Lights
• In-depth cultural insights into Sámi traditions and Lapland heritage
• Camera tips and tricks help you capture the aurora’s magic
• Warm clothing and blankets ensure comfort during outdoor viewing, even in cold temperatures
• Flexible cancellation policies allow for peace of mind when booking

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Cozy Arrival at the BBQ Hut

Your evening begins in the inviting surroundings of a BBQ hut in Poikkijärvi. Surrounded by the silence of the Arctic, the hut’s warm glow immediately makes you feel at home. Inside, the aroma of open-fire cooking hints at the delicious Sámi meal awaiting you. Here, you’ll instantly sense the blend of tradition and festivity, with the fire crackling and blankets ready to keep you warm.

Cooking and Tasting Souvasa

You’ll participate in preparing a traditional Sámi dish called souvasa—a savory blend of lightly smoked reindeer, deer, and moose meats, served with seasonal vegetables. Cooking over open flames, you’ll get a hands-on experience that connects you with centuries-old culinary practices. As one reviewer noted, “Cooking together in the hut created a warm, communal atmosphere, and the food was genuinely delicious,” highlighting the value of authentic, shared experiences.

Storytelling and Cultural Insights

While enjoying the meal, your guide will share stories of Sámi traditions and Lapland’s heritage. This storytelling makes the experience more meaningful, giving context to the cuisine and the landscape. Expect tales of reindeer herding, local legends, and Christmas customs, which add depth beyond just a meal or sightseeing.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Arctic Night Sky and Aurora Chase

As the stars begin to appear, you’ll step outside—wrapped in blankets—to scan the inky sky. The guides use real-time Aurora forecasts and their expertise to locate the best viewing spots. The journey to find the Northern Lights is part of the adventure; some guests have described it as “a peaceful ride beneath the starry sky, with anticipation building as we waited for the lights to dance.”

Tips for Capturing the Aurora

Once the lights appear—if they do—they’re a breathtaking sight. Guides will offer camera tips and settings, helping you get the best shot of this fleeting phenomenon. Even if the lights don’t dance immediately, the experience of being outdoors in the Arctic night is magical enough. Many reviewers mention that “the guides’ tips made all the difference in capturing some incredible photos,” making the experience especially rewarding for photography buffs.

What’s Included and What to Prepare

Included in the tour are the traditional Sámi dish preparation, aurora borealis chase, live guide, warm drinks, and warm clothing. The provided clothing and blankets ensure you stay comfortable during outdoor viewing, but it’s advisable to bring your own thermal layers and winter accessories for maximum warmth.

Not included are personal camera equipment, so if photography is a priority, consider bringing your own tripod and extra batteries. The tour offers flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind in case of weather concerns.

Transportation and Group Size

Transport is via minibuses, which adds to the cozy, intimate vibe of the experience. Guests are often in small groups, which allows for personalized attention from guides. Pickups are available from nearby locations in Kiruna, reducing hassle and making the journey smooth. The total duration is around four hours, fitting nicely into an evening schedule without feeling rushed.

The Cultural and Scenic Value

What sets this tour apart is the blend of cultural storytelling, traditional cuisine, and Arctic scenery. The Sámi dinner is more than just a meal; it’s a window into a resilient community, and the storytelling enriches your appreciation of the region. The outdoor Aurora chase offers a rare chance to witness nature’s most spectacular light show in a setting free of light pollution, with the starry sky providing a stunning backdrop.

The reviews highlight that many guests appreciated the authenticity and warmth of the experience, with one reviewer mentioning, “It felt like visiting old friends who just happened to know how to find the Northern Lights.” The guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor enhance the overall experience, making it feel more like a shared adventure than a commercial tour.

The Price and Value

At $197, this experience offers a balanced mix of culture, outdoor adventure, and scenic beauty. Considering that it includes a traditional meal, professional guidance, and a chance to see the Northern Lights, it ranks as a solid value for those eager for a genuine Arctic experience. The additional benefits of warm clothing and expert tips help justify the cost, especially for travelers unfamiliar with winter travel logistics.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is especially suitable for first-time visitors to Lapland who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Christmas in the Arctic. It’s ideal for cultural enthusiasts, food lovers, and those eager to combine storytelling with nature. If you’re seeking a more intimate, less commercialized experience and don’t mind braving the cold a bit, this tour will suit you well.

It’s less ideal for travelers who must guarantee a Northern Lights sighting—though guides do their best, Aurora sightings depend heavily on weather conditions and solar activity. Still, the journey itself offers enough magic to make it worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

Kiruna’s Celebration of Christmas is a thoughtfully curated experience that captures the spirit of Lapland. It offers a rare glimpse into Sámi traditions, paired with the thrill of chasing the Aurora Borealis. The cozy outdoor setting, delicious local food, and storytelling create a warm, festive atmosphere amid the Arctic wilderness.

This tour provides excellent value for those wanting more than just a sightseeing tour—it’s an immersive cultural experience wrapped in winter wonder. The guides’ genuine passion, the authentic cuisine, and the chance to see the northern lights make it a memorable addition to any Arctic itinerary.

For travelers craving a blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty in a festive setting, this tour hits the mark. Just pack your warmest layers and a sense of adventure—you might not see the lights every night, but the memories will glow brightly.

FAQs

What should I bring for this tour?
Warm clothing is essential, including thermal layers, hats, gloves, and boots. The tour provides blankets and some clothing, but layering is your best bet for comfort outdoors.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
Unfortunately, no. The Aurora depends on weather and solar activity. Guides will do their best with real-time forecasts, but sightings are never guaranteed.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for about four hours, including the meal, storytelling, and Aurora chase.

Do I need to prepare my camera?
While personal camera equipment isn’t included, guides offer useful tips to help you photograph the lights. Bringing a tripod and extra batteries is recommended if photography is a priority.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickups from nearby locations in Kiruna are included, and transport is via minibuses, making the journey comfortable and intimate.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

In summary, this tour offers a genuine blend of cultural storytelling, traditional cuisine, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights in a cozy, outdoor setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, memorable Arctic adventure that balances comfort with adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: