Experience the Vibrant Helsinki Christmas Market

The Helsinki Christmas Market, known as Tuomaa Markkinat in Finnish and Tomasmarknaden in Swedish, has been an annual event since 1994. Initially held at Esplanadi Park, it later moved to the city's largest square, Senate Square. Attracting over 300,000 visitors each year, the market is open from November 29 to December 22, with hours from 11 AM to 7 PM Sunday through Thursday, and until 8 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Entry is free, and children can enjoy a complimentary carousel ride. During the market, a giant Christmas tree is erected in front of Helsinki Cathedral. Stalls offer rice porridge, mulled wine, winter cocktails, coffee, cinnamon rolls, sausages, flowers, knitted crafts like beanies and scarves, and Finnish souvenirs. There's even a sauna and pony rides for children. In 2023 and 2024, CNN Travel named it the "Best Christmas Market." Having visited in 2023, I found the atmosphere lively and bustling, contrary to the stereotype of Finns being socially distant. Families come together to enjoy the festivities, making it feel like a grand party. The carousel is a particularly joyful spot for children. Senate Square is akin to Beijing's Tiananmen Square, albeit smaller. It hosts formal events like the International Military Music Festival and political gatherings, which are peaceful and often end with participants enjoying coffee or drinks, resembling a carnival. Most of the time, Senate Square feels like a rural market in northern China, with people sunbathing, feeding seagulls, or playing music. It's relaxed, with few police and no "urban management" officials. Many squares in Helsinki allow for casual stalls where people of all ages can sell items without needing a license or facing regulation. #Helsinki #ChristmasMarket #TravelTips