Where is the Arctic Circle?

Your Guide to the Arctic Circle

The Arctic Circle is an imaginary line of latitude located roughly at 66.5° north of the Equator. The tilt of our planet has fascinating implications, giving rise to unique natural phenomena in the far north:

• The Midnight Sun (Summer): North of the Arctic Circle, for at least one day each year around the Summer Solstice (June 21), the sun never sets. The farther north you travel, the longer the sun stays above the horizon—sometimes for weeks at a time.
• The Polar Night (Winter): Around the Winter Solstice (December 21), the sun doesn’t rise at all for at least one day. In Finnish, this period is called Kaamos—a time of soft, ethereal twilight that creates an atmosphere of serene beauty.

In Lapland, the location at the Arctic Circle shows itself in many ways. One of the clearest examples is the distinct seasons—numbering not the traditional four but eight! Another is the dramatic change in daylight, from endless summer sunshine to the long, dark winter nights. And of course, who could forget the Northern Lights, which dance across the skies from early fall into spring, painting the horizon in shimmering greens, pinks, and purples.

Lapland’s Arctic location also shapes its flora and fauna. Hardy plants like Arctic moss, cloudberries, and dwarf birches thrive in the short growing season. Reindeer roam the tundra, Arctic foxes blend into snowy landscapes, and birds such as snowy owls and Siberian jays endure long, dark winters. Beneath icy waters, salmon and trout swim, while the dense forests provide shelter for lynx, wolverines, and the elusive brown bear.

The Midnight Sun in Rovaniemi

So, how does the Midnight Sun shine in Rovaniemi? It transforms the short but unforgettable summer into a period of nearly continuous daylight. From late May to July, the sun barely dips below the horizon, bathing the landscape in bright, golden evenings that stretch into the “night.” Even into August, the days remain long and bright. Summer is the perfect time to explore Lapland’s nature under a glowing sky.

Great activities to enjoy the sunny summer:

The Polar Night in Rovaniemi

Just as with the Midnight Sun, the Polar Night in Rovaniemi is often considered longer than its technical definition. Why? Because even though daylight begins to increase steadily after mid-January, the period from late November onward is marked by deep, lingering darkness. Even then, it’s rarely completely dark: the low sun, twilight, and the reflection from snow create soft, magical light for people to enjoy.

Memorable activities for the nighttime:

How to Cross the Arctic Circle

There are many reasons to visit Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, but did you know that the Arctic Circle line approximately runs through Santa Claus Village? The line is marked so visitors can take a moment during their holiday to physically step over this fascinating boundary—what a great story to share back home! Stepping over the line is free of charge, but certificates to commemorate the moment are available for purchase.

Hint: At Apukka Resort, we offer a special Snowmobile Safari to Santa Claus Village tour—the most exciting way to travel to meet Santa, with a total of three hours of snowmobile driving time included.

Hint number 2: Another convenient way to reach Santa Claus Village is by Apukka Resort’s shuttle bus service. The shuttle operates daily from September to early April between Apukka Resort, Santa Claus Village, and Rovaniemi city center. You can find prices and timetables by clicking here.