Just 15 minutes from Ylläs, the Lapland Hotels SnowVillage will return for its 25th season this winter, opening on December 25, 2025 with the theme Pure Celebration. The anniversary edition promises a spectacular showcase of global festivities, from Rio’s Carnival to the vibrant spirit of St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland.
“The theme Pure Celebration will be reflected in circus scenes, festivals and cultural festivities from around the world. We’ll be building a funfair, a Rio Carnival area and an Irish-style Ice Bar bathed in green,” said Maria Astrén, Regional Manager at Lapland Hotels.
A Winter Wonderland Built from Snow and Ice
Construction of the SnowVillage begins in early November, requiring freezing temperatures to support its massive snow structures. Each year, a team of around 50 builders reshapes the attraction using 40,000 cubic meters of snow and 300,000 kilograms of clear ice harvested from the nearby Lainio river.
“About 15,000 cubic meters of snow are stored from the previous winter, with another 25,000 produced in the fall,” explained Tomi Kurtakko, Technical Director at Lapland Hotels SnowVillage.
Record-Breaking Season Expected
Last winter, the SnowVillage welcomed a record 86,000 visitors, roughly 70% of whom were international travelers. Following a major expansion of its permanent facilities — including a warm 100-seat Glass Restaurant, three eateries, and an Ice Bar — the site is bracing for even larger crowds this season.
“The renovations have served the increased number of visitors excellently. We are ready for the new winter season and expect numbers to grow further,” Astrén added.
Recognition in the Travel Industry
The SnowVillage’s growing profile has also earned it a nomination as Domestic Destination of the Year at the Finnish Travel Gala 2025, with winners to be announced on October 31.
The attraction will remain open daily from December 25, 2025, to April 6, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets cost €26 for adults and €14 for children (ages 4–14), with free admission for visitors accompanied by an assistant.
Easily reached from Levi, Ylläs, Olos and Pallas, the SnowVillage continues to be one of Finnish Lapland’s most dazzling seasonal draws — this year celebrating not just winter magic, but festive traditions from across the world.
