At Helsinki Airport passengers get to see and hear Christmas in the Finnish style this year. After all, the airport is an official partner of the Finnish Santa Claus Foundation.
'Santa walks around the airport greeting and chatting with passengers. Along with the vivid green of fir branches, the characteristic colours of decorations and ornaments highlight the Finnish feeling of Christmas at Helsinki Airport', says Noora Westerberg, Marketing Coordinator for Finavia.
Impressive displays
Christmas decorations are at their most abundant in the departure hall of Terminal 2. Bunches of lights and giant gift-wrapped presents hang from the ceiling.
'We gathered together lights and ornaments to create gorgeous displays. In various areas of the airport – both inside and outside – some 60 Christmas trees contribute to the jolly seasonal feeling', continues Westerberg, who started planning the airport Christmas already in June.
'Figuring out the themes and selecting decorations is the most fun part of the preparations, and at the same time the most challenging one. Luckily manufacturers gave us plenty of suggestions early on'.
Guidance, tips, and gift-wrapping
Passengers are served by Santa´s Helpers, a cheery sight in their pointy red hats. They speak many languages and actively help passengers find their way around the airport, answer questions, and even give tips for presents when asked.
In fact, the airport is a good place to buy gifts for your near and dear ones. Check out the offers and gift ideas on Finavia's website.
You can also easily have your presents beautifully wrapped. Near Gate 28 is a huge gift box that is actually a gift-wrapping desk. In the non-Schengen area a mobile gift-wrapping service takes care of passengers' presents.
While waiting for your flight and shopping, why not sit down for a minute to enjoy delicious savoury and sweet Christmas goodies at the airport's restaurants and cafés?
Helsinki Airport's Christmas events
You can meet Santa at the airport between 23 November and 25 December from 2 pm to 6 pm, Monday to Saturday.
Gift-wrapping services are open between 1 December and 15 January from 1 pm to 8 pm, Monday to Saturday.
Santa´s Helpers assist passengers at the airport between 1 December and 25 December from 1 pm to 8 pm, Monday to Saturday.
