Special activities are scheduled at Helsinki Airport from December 1st until Christmas Eve. Expect Santa Claus and his elves, for example, to meet and greet passengers around the check-in and gate areas every day between 1 pm and 5 pm. Santa’s entourage can be found among well-behaving children and adults alike, so when you catch a glimpse of a red robe, don’t be shy to come and say hi!
During Advent, memorable events are also set to take place at the airport. With these, Helsinki Airport wants to help passengers waiting for their flights get into the holiday spirit and offer international travellers uniquely Finnish Christmas experiences.
See what’s happening at the airport before you board your flight:
Wednesday, December 4, 1–4 pm
Pianist Pia Katarina plays an entertaining mix of soul, jazz and other genres at Aukio.
Friday, December 6, 2–4 pm
On Finnish Independence Day, the entertainment choir Essut sings Finnish and international classics in the Terminal 2 departures hall loft, Schengen gate area and Aukio.
Tuesday, December 10, 2-4 pm
The dance group Finnish Pulses performs modern dance at central square Aukio in the non-Schengen area.
Friday, December 13, 4:30–5 pm
The traditional St. Lucia Day procession featuring singers from Vantaa Music Institute moves around the airport area, starting from Terminal 1 and proceeding through the walkway to Terminal 2 departures hall.
Monday, December 16, 3–4 pm
The Finnair choir sings Christmas songs around the departures halls. The mixed choir consists of former and current Finnair employees.
Wednesday, December 18, 3–5 pm
The Tikkurila Church choir sings a selection of beautiful Christmas songs. The choir moves around the Terminal 2 departures hall, Schengen gate area, non-Schengen gate area and Aukio.
Friday, December 19, 3:30–5:30 pm
Finnair Singers performs international Christmas classics in the departure halls and gate areas. The choir, consisting of Finnair staff members, has charmed passengers since 1949.
Friday, December 20, 3–6 pm
The Tikkurila Church choir sings a selection of beautiful Christmas songs. The choir moves around the Terminal 2 departures hall, Schengen gate area, non-Schengen gate area and Aukio.
Helsinki Airport is Santa’s Official Gateway:
Finavia is an official partner of the Santa Claus Foundation. As a result of the cooperation that began in 2015, Helsinki Airport has been given a valuable title: Santa’s Official Gateway.
Helsinki Airport is a perfect place for last-minute gift shopping. There are over 50 shops, offering a broad selection of Christmas presents for everyone, and the airport’s cafes and restaurants serve dishes inspired by delicious holiday flavours.
Explore the shop and restaurant selection at Helsinki Airport
