Over 650,000 people visited the Helsinki Christmas Market this year, setting a new attendance record. The market, held at Senate Square from 28 November to 23 December, attracted both residents and international tourists despite consistently rainy weather.
The 2025 turnout surpassed last year’s figure, confirming the Helsinki Christmas Market as one of Finland’s most visited public events. Heated seating areas in the café and restaurant courtyards were in high demand throughout the season.
Visitors consumed more than 60,000 servings of rice porridge and drank over 85,000 cups of hot mulled drinks from the restaurant yard. Popular items included traditional glögi and glühwein.
New food favourites also emerged this year. Korean-style reindeer corndogs and sweet crumbles made from apples and berries proved especially popular among attendees.
Jenni Pajunen, chair of the board at Helsinki Events Foundation, said rising visitor numbers reflect both local interest and the continuing growth of tourism in the capital.
“The Helsinki Christmas Market is likely the largest public event in Finland. Beyond the lights and atmosphere, its focus on Finnish products and responsibility make it unique. We are pleased that the market has gained recognition in international media as well,” Pajunen said.
“We thank all visitors, sellers and partners for creating a shared Christmas experience.”
The curated Christmas market featured over 100 Finnish artisans and small producers, offering a wide range of locally made goods and foods. Gift items included handcrafted candles, traditional decorations, small-batch coffees and edible gifts.
The market programme included live Christmas music, radio broadcasts by Aito Iskelmä and visits from Santa Claus. Evening jazz sessions by We Jazz and circus shows for children added new elements to the atmosphere.
A free horse carousel, which attracted over 50,000 riders, remained a favourite among younger visitors. Nearly 1,000 children from local kindergartens and daycare groups took part in a special event hosted by the mayor and deputy mayors.
Visitors can still enjoy the Christmas season in Helsinki at the Manta Christmas Market, organised by City Spaces, which continues until Epiphany.
The Helsinki Christmas Market will return to Senate Square in 2026.
HT
