Explore Finland

A Visitors Guide to Finland's Weather, Events & Holidays

Planning a trip to Finland? Discover the best times to visit with our month-by-month guide to Finland's weather, events, and holidays. From the snowy magic of January to the busy festivals of July, make the most of your vacation in Finland with this visitor's guide to help plan your trip.

In this guide, you'll find everything you need to know about planning a trip to Finland. We’ll cover the best times to visit based on weather, key events, and national holidays. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly tips or want to experience Finland at its peak, this guide will help you plan your trip efficiently.

Peak Season in Finland

Finland's peak tourist season runs from June to August. During these summer months, the weather is warm, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (about 18-22°C).

The country has many visitors who are eager to enjoy the famous Midnight Sun, especially in the northern parts, where the sun doesn't set for weeks. The pleasant weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boating.

Since this is the most popular time to visit Finland, it's wise to book accommodations and activities well in advance. The prices for hotels, flights, and popular tourist attractions are at their highest during these months. Additionally, summer festivals like the Savonlinna Opera Festival and Pori Jazz Festival attract large crowds, making it an exciting but busy time to explore the country.

Shoulder Season In Finland

The shoulder seasons in Finland are May and September to October. During these months, the crowds thin out, and prices for accommodations and flights drop. The weather is still relatively mild, especially in May and early September, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10-20°C).

Visiting during these months has its perks. In May, you can witness the awakening of nature, with blooming flowers and the return of migratory birds. September and October are perfect for witnessing the breathtaking fall foliage, particularly in Lapland, where the landscapes are transformed into a palette of golds, oranges, and reds. It's also a good time for berry picking and mushroom foraging. The famous Ruska season, when the autumn colors peak, is particularly stunning.

Off-Season in Finland

Finland's off-season falls during the winter months from November to March, excluding the holiday period in December. This is when the country experiences its harshest weather, with temperatures plummeting to well below freezing, particularly in the north. In Helsinki, temperatures hover around the 20s Fahrenheit (-6 to -1°C), while in Lapland, they can drop to as low as -30°F (-34°C).

Despite the cold, there are several reasons to visit Finland during the off-season. The Northern Lights are at their most visible from September to March, with the best chances occurring in December through February.

Winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, and dog sledding are in full swing, and you can also experience the magical Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. The downside is that many attractions outside of winter sports may be closed, and the short daylight hours (especially in December) can limit sightseeing opportunities.

Finland in January

January in Finland is a true winter wonderland. This is one of the coldest months of the year, with temperatures ranging from 15°F to 25°F (-9°C to -4°C) in the south and dropping even lower in the north, sometimes reaching -22°F (-30°C) in Lapland. The country is blanketed in snow, making it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts.

Tourism in January is mainly focused on Lapland, where visitors flock to experience the unique Arctic activities. These include reindeer and husky sledding, snowmobiling, and visiting the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort with its famous glass igloos. The Northern Lights are also a major draw, with many travelers hoping to catch a glimpse of this natural phenomenon. The short days and long nights provide more opportunities for aurora spotting.

In Helsinki and other southern cities, the pace is slower, with many locals taking time to enjoy the coziness of winter. Cafés and saunas are popular hangouts, and the Lux Helsinki light festival, held in early January, brightens up the dark evenings with impressive light installations.

Average Rainfall: 1.2 inches
Temperature Range: 15°F to 25°F (-9°C to -4°C)

Events in January

Lux Helsinki: A vibrant light festival that takes place in early January, where various light installations are set up around Helsinki, turning the city into a glowing winter wonderland.

Holidays in January

New Year's Day: January 1st - A public holiday celebrated with fireworks and festivities across Finland. It’s a day off for most people, and many businesses are closed.

Finland in February

February continues the deep winter in Finland, with conditions similar to January. The temperatures remain low, averaging 12°F to 23°F (-11°C to -5°C), and snow covers most of the country. This is one of the best months for winter activities in Lapland, where the snow is thick, and the Northern Lights are frequent visitors to the night sky.

Tourism is still strong in Lapland, with visitors partaking in activities like ice fishing, skiing, and staying in ice hotels. The Rovaniemi Snow Festival is a highlight, featuring snow sculpting competitions, ice slides, and other snowy fun. Meanwhile, Helsinki hosts the Helsinki Winter Cycling Congress, promoting cycling even in winter conditions.

February is a great time to experience Finnish culture indoors as well, with numerous cultural events and performances taking place in the warmth of theaters and concert halls. The country also celebrates Laskiainen, a traditional Finnish holiday where people enjoy sledding and feasting on pea soup and sweet buns.

Average Rainfall: 1.0 inch
Temperature Range: 12°F to 23°F (-11°C to -5°C)

Events in February

Rovaniemi Snow Festival: A celebration of snow in the Arctic Circle, where artists and locals create stunning snow sculptures. There are also snow slides and other fun activities.
Helsinki Winter Cycling Congress: An event that brings together cycling enthusiasts from around the world to discuss and promote winter cycling.

Holidays in February

Laskiainen: A movable feast celebrated in February, typically the day before Ash Wednesday. It’s a day of sledding and traditional Finnish foods like pea soup and laskiaispulla (sweet buns).

Finland in March

March marks the beginning of the transition from winter to spring, though winter activities are still in full swing, especially in the north. Temperatures start to rise slightly, ranging from 20°F to 32°F (-7°C to 0°C), but snow remains a dominant feature of the landscape.

Tourism remains high in Lapland, where the Northern Lights can still be seen, though they start to taper off towards the end of the month. March is also a prime time for skiing, with the added benefit of longer daylight hours. The Levi Ski Resort hosts several events, including snowboarding competitions and après-ski parties.

In the southern parts of Finland, like Helsinki, the snow begins to melt, and the city starts to prepare for the upcoming spring. While the weather is still cold, there’s a sense of anticipation as locals enjoy the last of the winter sports and begin to look forward to the warmer months ahead.

Average Rainfall: 1.3 inches
Temperature Range: 20°F to 32°F (-7°C to 0°C)

Events in March

Levi Ski Resort Events: Various snowboarding competitions and winter sports events are held at Levi Ski Resort, one of Finland's top winter destinations.

Holidays in March

St. Urho's Day: March 16th - A quirky, unofficial holiday celebrated in some Finnish communities, especially among Finnish-Americans, honoring the mythical saint who chased grasshoppers out of Finland.

Finland in April

April is a true transitional month in Finland, as the country shifts from winter to spring. The snow in the south begins to melt, and temperatures climb to a more comfortable range of 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C). However, in the north, especially in Lapland, winter activities continue, though the snow starts to become slushier.

Tourism begins to decrease, particularly in Lapland, as the ski season winds down and the Northern Lights become less frequent. However, it's still possible to enjoy late-season skiing and other winter sports in higher altitudes. In the southern regions, like Helsinki, the focus shifts to springtime activities. As the ice melts, the waterways open up, and boat tours around the archipelago begin to resume.

April is also a month of celebration as Finns prepare for Vappu, the Finnish May Day, at the end of the month. Although the main celebrations take place on May 1st, preparations and smaller events start in late April, adding a festive atmosphere to cities like Helsinki and Turku.

Average Rainfall: 1.3 inches
Temperature Range: 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C)

Events in April

Vappu (Preparations): Late April marks the beginning of Vappu preparations, with small events and gatherings as Finns gear up for the big celebration on May 1st.

Holidays in April

Easter: The date varies, but it often falls in April. Easter in Finland is celebrated with traditional church services, egg hunts, and festive meals.

Finland in May

May is when Finland truly comes alive with spring. The snow is gone, even in the northern parts of the country, and temperatures rise to a pleasant 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C). This is a shoulder season, making it a fantastic time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying good weather.

Tourism is moderate, with visitors enjoying the awakening nature, particularly in the national parks where hiking trails become accessible again. The Nuuksio National Park near Helsinki is a popular destination for day

hikes and picnics. The waterways are fully open, making it a great time for boating and exploring the archipelagos.

One of the most significant events in May is Vappu, celebrated on May 1st. This nationwide festival marks the arrival of spring with parades, picnics, and parties. In Helsinki, the streets are filled with people wearing their white student caps, enjoying the lively atmosphere with music, food, and drink.

Average Rainfall: 1.4 inches
Temperature Range: 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C)

Events in May

Vappu: Celebrated on May 1st, this is one of the biggest festivals in Finland. The day is marked with parades, street parties, and picnics, particularly in Helsinki and other major cities.

Holidays in May

Vappu (May Day): May 1st - A public holiday in Finland that celebrates spring and the labor movement. It’s a festive day with parades, speeches, and large gatherings across the country.

Finland in June

June marks the beginning of the peak tourist season in Finland, as the summer solstice approaches and the days stretch nearly to 24 hours of daylight in the northern parts of the country. Temperatures are warm, ranging from 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C), making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Tourism is at its peak, particularly around the Midsummer (Juhannus) celebrations in late June, when Finns flock to the countryside to celebrate with bonfires, sauna sessions, and festivities that last through the night. Cities like Helsinki host various events, but many locals head to their summer cottages, leaving the city quieter than usual.

The long days are ideal for exploring Finland’s natural beauty. Whether it’s hiking in the national parks, kayaking in the lakes, or enjoying the Midnight Sun in Lapland, June offers endless possibilities for outdoor adventures. Popular festivals such as the Savonlinna Opera Festival also begin in June, attracting

Average Rainfall: 2.1 inches
Temperature Range: 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C)

Events in June

Midsummer (Juhannus): Celebrated on the weekend closest to June 24th, this is one of the most important holidays in Finland. It involves spending time in the countryside, lighting bonfires, and enjoying the endless daylight.
Savonlinna Opera Festival: Although it begins in late June, this renowned festival brings world-class opera performances to the historic Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna.

Holidays in June

Midsummer (Juhannus): Closest weekend to June 24th - A national holiday that celebrates the summer solstice. Finns often retreat to their summer cottages to celebrate with family and friends.

Finland in July

July is the height of summer in Finland and one of the warmest months of the year, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C). This is a prime time for both domestic and international tourists to explore the country, especially its natural landscapes.

Tourism is at its peak, particularly in popular regions like the Lakeland district, Lapland, and the archipelagos. The long, sunny days are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and cycling. Many Finns are on vacation during this time, and you’ll find a lively atmosphere at summer cottages, beaches, and national parks.

In Helsinki, the city is alive with events and festivals. July is also the month for the Pori Jazz Festival, one of the oldest and most renowned jazz festivals in Europe, attracting world-class musicians and fans from around the globe.

Average Rainfall: 2.6 inches
Temperature Range: 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C)

Events in July

Pori Jazz Festival: Held in mid-July, this internationally acclaimed festival features a wide range of jazz performances in the coastal city of Pori.
Savonlinna Opera Festival: Continuing from June, this festival brings opera lovers to the historic Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna, offering stunning performances in a medieval setting.

Holidays in July

No national holidays: July does not have any major national holidays, but many Finns take their annual vacations during this time, making it a busy travel period.

Finland in August

August signals the end of summer in Finland, with temperatures beginning to cool slightly, ranging from 55°F to 68°F (13°C to 20°C). This is still a peak travel time, though the tourist crowds start to thin as the month progresses.

The weather remains warm enough for outdoor activities, and it’s a great time to experience Finland’s natural beauty before autumn sets in. Many cultural and music festivals take place in August, including the Helsinki Festival, which is the largest multi-arts festival in Finland.

The end of August also marks the beginning of the harvest season, and you might find local food festivals or markets celebrating Finnish produce.

Average Rainfall: 2.8 inches
Temperature Range: 55°F to 68°F (13°C to 20°C)

Events in August

Helsinki Festival: Running throughout August, this is Finland’s largest arts festival, featuring a mix of music, theater, dance, visual arts, and more across the city.
Flow Festival: A popular urban music and arts festival held in mid-August in Helsinki, known for its eclectic lineup and unique venue.

Holidays in August

No national holidays: August does not have any major national holidays, but it is still a popular month for vacations and festivals.

Finland in September

September marks the beginning of autumn in Finland. The temperatures drop to a cooler range of 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C), and the first hints of fall colors start to appear, especially in Lapland.

This is a shoulder season, so there are fewer tourists, making it an excellent time to visit if you prefer quieter surroundings. The forests are abundant with berries and mushrooms, and many locals head out foraging. September is also the start of the Ruska season in Lapland, when the fall foliage is at its most vibrant.

Average Rainfall: 2.6 inches
Temperature Range: 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 15°C)

Events in September

Ruska Season: This is not a single event but a period where the autumn colors in Lapland reach their peak, drawing nature lovers and photographers to the region.
Helsinki Design Week: Held in early September, this event is the largest design festival in the Nordic countries, showcasing Finnish and international design.

Holidays in September

No national holidays: September does not have any national holidays, but the start of the Ruska season and the many design events give it a festive feel.

Finland in October

October is a true autumn month in Finland, with temperatures dropping further to 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C). The fall colors are still visible in early October, particularly in the south, but by the end of the month, the leaves have mostly fallen, and the country begins to prepare for winter.

Tourism slows down significantly, making October a quiet time to visit. However, this is an excellent time to enjoy Finnish saunas and cozy up in a cabin, particularly as the daylight hours begin to shorten.

Average Rainfall: 2.5 inches
Temperature Range: 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C)

Events in October

Helsinki International Film Festival: Held in early October, this festival showcases a wide variety of films from around the world, attracting cinephiles to the Finnish capital.

Holidays in October

No national holidays: October does not have any major national holidays, but the arrival of cooler weather brings a focus on indoor activities and cultural events.

Finland in November

November is the beginning of winter in Finland. Temperatures drop to 25°F to 35°F (-4°C to 2°C), and the first snowfalls are common, particularly in the north. The days are short, with limited daylight, especially as the month progresses.

Tourism is very low during November, as the weather is not ideal for outdoor activities, and the country starts to hunker down for the long winter ahead. However, for those interested in experiencing Finland’s winter preparations, this is a unique time to visit. In Lapland, the Northern Lights start to become more visible again, providing a magical experience for those who venture north.

Average Rainfall: 2.4 inches
Temperature Range: 25°F to 35°F (-4°C to 2°C)

Events in November

Slush: A major startup and tech event held in Helsinki in mid-November, drawing entrepreneurs and investors from around the world.

Holidays in November

All Saints' Day: First Saturday of November - A day to remember the departed, celebrated with candlelight ceremonies in cemeteries across Finland.

Finland in December

December is a magical time in Finland, particularly in Lapland, where the Christmas spirit is in full swing. Temperatures range from 15°F to 25°F (-9°C to -4°C), and snow is almost guaranteed across the country.

Tourism picks up again, especially in Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus. Visitors from all over the world come to meet Santa, visit his workshop, and experience the Christmas markets. The Northern Lights are also a big draw in December, as are winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

Average Rainfall: 2.0 inches
Temperature Range: 15°F to 25°F (-9°C to -4°C)

Events in December

Santa Claus Village: Located in Rovaniemi, this is the ultimate Christmas destination where visitors can meet Santa Claus, cross the Arctic Circle, and enjoy a variety of holiday-themed activities.
Helsinki Christmas Market: The oldest and most traditional Christmas market in Helsinki, offering handicrafts, food, and festive atmosphere.

Holidays in December

Independence Day: December 6th - Finland’s national holiday, marked by official ceremonies, a presidential reception, and candle-lit windows in homes across the country.
Christmas Eve & Day: December 24th-25th - Christmas is celebrated with family gatherings, festive meals, and traditional church services.

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