Finnish Lapland Facts for Kids

Finnish Lapland is the northernmost region of Finland. It is a huge area known for its amazing nature. Before, it was the eastern half of Swedish Lapland. The region to the south is Northern Ostrobothnia. Lapland is famous for its beautiful landscapes. These include the large Inarijärvi, and the highest point in Finland, Halti hill.

Lapland's Amazing Nature
- The Midnight Sun and Polar Night
- Animals of Lapland
People and Culture
- The Sami People
- Reindeer Herding
Things to Do in Lapland
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Lapland's Amazing Nature

Lapland is a land of wild beauty. It has vast forests, fells (small mountains), and many lakes. The region is mostly covered by taiga forests. These are made up of pine and spruce trees. In the very north, the landscape changes to tundra. Here, only small plants can grow.

The Midnight Sun and Polar Night

Because Lapland is so far north, it has special seasons. In summer, the sun does not set for weeks. This is called the midnight sun. It means you can play outside even late at night! In winter, the sun does not rise for a long time. This is known as the polar night or "kaamos" in Finnish. During this time, the days are dark, but the snow makes everything bright.

Animals of Lapland

Lapland is home to many Arctic animals. The most famous is the reindeer. These animals are very important to the people living here. You can also find moose, brown bears, and wolfes. In the sky, you might see birds like the golden eagle or the bluethroat.

People and Culture

Lapland is home to different cultures. The majority of people are Finns. However, it is also the homeland of the Sami people.

The Sami People

The Sami are the only native people of Europe. They have lived in Lapland for thousands of years. Their culture is closely tied to nature and reindeer herding. They have their own language, traditional clothes, and music. Sami people often live in small villages. They keep their traditions alive.

Reindeer Herding

Reindeer herding is a very old way of life in Lapland. It is important for both Sami and Finnish cultures. Reindeer are semi-wild animals. They roam freely in the forests and fells. Herders follow them to make sure they are safe. Reindeer provide meat, hides, and antlers.

Things to Do in Lapland

Lapland is a popular place for tourists. Many people come here to see its unique nature and enjoy winter sports.

Winter Wonderland Activities

In winter, Lapland turns into a magical wonderland. You can go skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling. Many people enjoy husky or reindeer sled rides. You can also try ice fishing on frozen lakes.

The Northern Lights

One of the most amazing sights in Lapland is the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. These are colorful lights that dance in the night sky. They are best seen on clear, dark nights during winter. It's a truly unforgettable experience.

Santa Claus Village

Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, is known as the official home of Santa Claus. You can visit Santa Claus Village there. You can meet Santa, send postcards from his post office, and cross the Arctic Circle. It's a fun place for families.

Lapland

Images for kids

Aurora Borealis, the northern lights at the sky in Ruka, South of Lapland
The Luosto inselberg from air.
Wehrmacht soldiers with a local Sami reindeer herder in Lappland, Sodankylä, Finland 1942.
Sámi family in Lapland, 1936.
Traffic in Lapland