Where Does Santa Live?

Is Santa Claus From Lapland?

The legend of Santa Claus has evolved over centuries, taking many twists and turns. From his origins as St. Nicholas in the Mediterranean, to the North Pole of cartoons and theme parks, to places like Lake Placid and Alaska, Santa’s story has traveled far and wide. So why is it that so many children around the world now believe Santa Claus comes from Lapland?

It all started in 1927, when a Finnish radio broadcast revealed a closely guarded secret: Santa’s true home was in Korvatunturi, a fell (mountain) in Lapland shaped like a giant ear. This ear-like feature, the story claimed, allowed Santa to listen in and keep track of who’s been naughty or nice.

But Korvatunturi is a challenging place to visit. Enter Rovaniemi—also located in Lapland, but much more accessible. This is how Rovaniemi earned the title of The Official Hometown of Santa Claus. Imagine it as a kind of global headquarters, or ‘Santa’s Embassy to the World.’ In Rovaniemi, Santa is more than just an expert gift-giver; he is also an ambassador of kindness and goodwill. In today’s turbulent world, this message has never been more important!

A fun bit of Apukka trivia: the reindeer you meet at Apukka Resort actually come from the Korvatunturi region! After the busy season ends, they return to the wilderness there.

Rovaniemi & Santa Claus: A Perfect Match

For over thirty years, the jolly man in red has spread joy at the Santa Claus Village—365 days a year! Every year, more than half a million people visit the Santa Claus Village, coming from all around the world. In addition to activities like husky and reindeer sleigh rides, you can also find plenty of free attractions there, such as crossing the Arctic Circle and visiting the historic Roosevelt Cottage. The Roosevelt Cottage was built in honor of Eleanor Roosevelt, the former First Lady of the United States and a renowned humanitarian, to celebrate her visit to Lapland in 1950. It was from this building that the rest of the Santa Claus Village eventually sprang.

Did you know that by the 1820s, even though Santa’s exact location was still a mystery, he was already closely associated with reindeer?

But in Rovaniemi, Christmas magic doesn’t stop there. On the grounds of Apukka Resort, deep within an enchanting forest, lies a hidden world of wonder: the secret realm of Santa’s elves. Here, far from the hustle and bustle, Santa Claus finds his retreat, welcoming visitors who follow their hearts—and the elves of Apukka—to this special corner of Lapland. Guests journey to Santa’s secret hideaway in a sleigh pulled by reindeer, making the adventure even more magical.

The Reindeer Ride to Santa through the Magic Forest is available at Apukka Resort from early winter through the winter season. This immersive experience invites visitors to learn from Santa’s elves about love, peace, and the importance of spreading goodwill around the world. Through enchanting music, heartfelt storytelling, and festive activities, the elves create a magical journey that captivates hearts and minds. It’s a perfect experience for those who believe—and for those who never want to stop believing—in the magic of Santa Claus.

Year-Round Christmas Charm Awaits

The spirit of Christmas shines brightly in Lapland during winter, but you don’t have to wait for snow to feel the festive magic! In August, when Apukka Resort opens its doors, you can discover what Santa, his elves, and the reindeer are up to during their quieter season. Meet Santa Claus and His Friends is our summer-autumn version of the popular winter tour.

But that’s not all—Apukka offers a variety of reindeer tours year-round, each revealing a unique side of these gentle, iconic creatures. These tours celebrate the deep cultural and historical connection between reindeer and Lapland, making them a must for anyone seeking an authentic Arctic experience.