Christmas season opens in Helsinki

The traditional Christmas opening event was held in Helsinki amidst festivity and joy on Saturday, although the increasing number coronavirus infections in the country raised concerns among the people.

Several hundred of people took part in the opening procession and paraded the city centre and adjoining important crossings and vantage in a festive manner.

Performers were seen to sing and dance with music to welcome the season.

Helsinki Christmas Market also opened on Saturday at city’s Market Square, which will continue until 22 December where about 100 small and independent artisans, crafters and food vendors participated.

The Christmas market temporarily re-located to Market Square due to the works currently underway to refurbish the lighting at Senate Square.

Families will love the traditional carousel at the heart of the Christmas market, and younger visitors will also enjoy the new Christmas Mystery mobile game, aimed at children aged 5 to 10.

Available through the Helsinki Christmas Market website, it offers players a fun and exciting introduction to Helsinki’s historic centre and the history and traditions of the Christmas market.

Based around the Market Square, the mobile game has been developed in collaboration with Helsinki City Museum. Both the carousel and the Christmas Mystery game are free for children to enjoy.

The market will remain open Monday to Thursday from 11:00–19:00 and Friday to Sunday, 11:00–20:00.

On the Independence Day it will remain open from 11:00–16:00.