Most of the world divides seasons in four, but in Lapland the season changes are much softer so they often divide them in eight. This means that winter, spring, summer and autumn are complemented by four more seasons in between. They originate from the Sámi people, who are very deeply connected to nature. Here’s some information about each season!

When does the first snow fall in Lapland?

Usually towards the end of October, Lapland gets its first snow. The ground is in frost and rivers start to freeze, which makes the landscape sparkle in white. Even nature falls into its winter hibernation! It's the perfect time to visit Lapland, before the busy tourist season until November.

First snow is also the perfect time to gather your skis and head to skiing tracks! It is even possible to spot some northern lights during the night. Northern lights and frost are a perfect opportunity for photographers to take some pictures of the start of the season in Lapland.

Midwinter is the time of polar nights and northern lights!

Midwinter is in December and that’s when the polar nights start. Polar night means that the sun does not rise at all and the atmosphere is a total blue twilight most of the time. The absence of sun especially during winter means freezing temperatures. Midwinter does have a certain mystical feeling with the snow covered landscape in blue light.

Midwinter is also Christmas time! If you want to know more about Christmas in Lapland, check out our other blog about that.

How to experience the frosty winter in Lapland?

The time of the true winter wonderland! From December to February the snow is packed and soft, which makes all the outdoor winter activities possible. The days are also getting longer and temperatures are not freezing anymore.

You can go husky sledding through snowy forests, watch the northern lights dance across the sky, or warm up in a traditional Finnish sauna after a day outdoors. The extreme cold makes every sound sharper and every light more vivid which creates an experience you’ll never forget!

Is there still snow in Lapland in spring?

Snowy spring is when the sun is coming back to shine on Lapland’s snow! Spring is the perfect time to spend most of the time on outdoor activities, since the days now last longer. Take up on some hiking, skiing or snowmobiling during the day, and still enjoy the northern lights during the nights!

The snow usually stays in Lapland even in April, sometimes all the way to May. Late spring brings out the best sides of Lapland: winter landscapes with a hint of spring warmth!

When does spring fully arrive in Lapland?

It comes in May with rising temperatures and flowing waters. The snow and ice start to melt and all the rivers begin to flow peacefully through Lapland. It’s also a great time for some birdwatching, since they start to return to the North! The landscape bursts into color and becomes brighter matching the people’s rising smiles after the long period of darkness.

Summer and midnight sun in Lapland

The start of midnight sun! It means that the sun does not set below the horizon at all. Lapland is starting to bloom and the days are never ending. It is also the time of Midsummer, which is a national Finnish holiday! Midsummer is at the end of June, when people gather around to celebrate the “nightless night” by the bonfire.

What is harvest season like in Lapland?

The perfect time to forage some arctic berries and mushrooms! Locals and visitors head to forests and hiking trails, spotting the first signs of autumn colors. Even mosquitos seem to disappear when the nights get cold during this time, which makes the forest trips more peaceful.

A perfect way to spend a day during harvest season is to go gather some ripe berries and mushrooms, heat up your sauna, dip in a lake and enjoy some homemade soup!

For some more food tips in Lapland, check out this blog by Visit Finland!

When is the best time to see autumn colors in Lapland?

“Ruska” is the perfect mix of orange, red and yellow! Outdoor activities are extra refreshing with the crisp air in early to mid-September. It’s one of the best times to visit Lapland if you love hiking, photography, or simply being surrounded by nature’s beauty. Crisp air, quiet trails, and the low autumn light create a magical atmosphere that feels both peaceful and powerful. Many travellers come to Lapland in autumn to see this colourful transformation before the first snow arrives.

From us you can rent your clothing for Lapland’s peak seasons especially from September to April!

The 8 seasons of Lapland