Providing a more responsible alternative to mass-produced gifts and decorations, Helsinki
Christmas Market brings to Senate Square a significant number of artisans and small
producers from all over Finland. The market’s atmospheric core consists of the Deliyard and
Restaurant Yard, which also serves alcoholic beverages, where one can enjoy seasonal treats
and festive holiday spirit.
Diverse programme inspires Christmas cheer
The market’s ample programme includes shows that bring joy to the end-of-the-year rush
and experiences that further boost the holiday spirit. These include visits by Santa and Mrs
Claus and plenty of varied live music performances, for example, an organ grinder, the
ZinZingen choir and Soiva Joulukortti duo. British Army Band Sandhurst performs traditional
Christmas carols on Sunday, 10 December, at noon and 2 p.m.
Vendor stalls organise workshops that introduce visitors to the world of glassblowing,
chestnut roasting and metalsmithing.
Responsible Christmas spirit
The vendors and restaurants at Helsinki Christmas Market have been selected with an emphasis on responsible production and operation. The market has plenty of primary producers and small artisans whose product selection is a sustainable alternative to mass-produced gifts and decorations.
Helsinki Christmas Market’s environmental impacts are assessed using the EcoCompass certificate. The market pays attention to sorting and minimising the amount of waste. Renewable energy is used to heat vendor stalls and power the carousel.
The Deli and Restaurant Yards emphasise organic and locally-produced ingredients and Fair Trade products. The selection includes vegetarian and vegan options, and the restaurants only use biodegradable dishware.
Senate Square will be the final destination for the students’ Independence Day procession on 6 December and initial meeting point for the Saint Lucy’s Day procession on 13 December.
Helsinki Christmas Market is open in Senate Square from 1 December to 22 December Sun–Thu at 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Fri–Sat at 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Admission to the Market is free.
