Local’s Guide to Visiting Rovaniemi in February (2026 Edition)

February is one of the best months to visit Rovaniemi. Many tourists have left by then and while there are still some here, it is usually couples and groups of adults as the kids are in school.

Visiting Rovaniemi in February has its pros and cons, just like any other month. However, if you manage your expectations, you will love a trip here then!

In this guide, I detail the best things to do during February in Rovaniemi, including tours and activities I recommend and a few events you should be on the lookout for!

I will also answer some FAQs and give my advice on what to pack/wear for a February trip to Rovaniemi. And, of course, I will also provide details about what to expect with the weather here.

This guide is only for Rovaniemi, but it can somewhat apply to most of Lapland (the packing and weather information). Let me know if you have any comments or questions. Thanks!

Weather in Rovaniemi in February

We have had some erratic weather this winter season, so I am excited for February to approach as it tends to be consistently snowy and cold (fingers crossed).

The average high is -5C and the low is -14C. Needless to say, the start of the month tends to be colder than the end of the month.

Snow in February in Rovaniemi

You will be pretty much guaranteed to find snow on the ground if visiting Rovaniemi in February. We have anywhere from 25 to 50 cm (10 to 20 in). Due to the longer days, this is a great time to take advantage of ski resorts, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

With that being said, the ski resorts in Lapland are usually packed on the weekends in February, so take note of that when you’re planning a trip and see higher prices!

February Daylight Hours

The days get longer and longer in February, and it finally feels like you can see a light at the end of the horizon and spring edging closer (even if the temperatures say otherwise).

On February 1, we have 6 hours and 25 minutes of daylight. By February 15, we have 8 hours and 12 minutes (it happens so quickly!). And by February 28, we will have 9 hours and 49 minutes of daylight.

Here are the sunrise/sunset times for February 2026:

• February 1: sunrise 9:18am, sunset 3:43pm
• February 15: sunrise 8:25am, sunset 4:37pm
• February 28: sunrise 7:35am, sunset 5:24pm

Keep in mind that this can vary a little by little each year.

Northern Lights in February

February is one of the months when you can see the northern lights in Rovaniemi. While you can see it then, everything depends on weather conditions (clear skies!), light pollution, and solar activity. But if the conditions line up, you should be able to see them on your trip.

To maximize your chance of seeing the aurora here, I recommend staying at least 4-5 days and planning your northern lights tour on the FIRST night of your trip. This will allow you to reschedule or book another later in the trip if you are not lucky that first night.

March is the best northern lights month in Rovaniemi, so if you’re flexible when organizing your trip to Rovaniemi, opt for the end of February or even try to plan your trip for March.

Best Things to Do in Rovaniemi in February

I get excited when discussing February in Rovaniemi because there is SO much to do for snow lovers. And plenty to do for those who don’t love the cold, as well!

Here are some of the top activities and things to do in the city:

• Take a northern lights tour: If you have never seen the aurora before, I suggest taking a tour at least one night when here (and at the beginning of your trip). This way, you can learn about how to see the aurora and some tips for photographing it.
• Day trip to Korouoma Canyon
• Kotatieva Winter Park: This amazing outdoor park opened last season and offers ice skating through a forest as well as a restaurant on-site. They have a pick-up included from the city center.
• Go ice floating (with the aurora): One of my favorite experiences here simply because I haven’t really seen it elsewhere (although I think Tromsø has recently started offering something similar).
• Visit Arktikum: I love this museum so much and go multiple times a year. It has exhibits on the Sámi, Arctic animals, and more. Great for kids.
• Snowmobiling
• Dog-sledding
• Arctic SnowHotel: The SnowHotel is up until March 31 and heading out there is a great idea for a unique experience! They also offer glass igloos if you want to stay overnight.
• Visit SnowGlow Winterpark: Closes in early to mid-March, and is a good option for something to do if you have kids.

Festivals and Events in Rovaniemi in February

• Arctic Lapland Rally (in January in 2026 – from the 29th to the 31st): It is the 61st anniversary of this exciting rally, also known as Tunturiralli. Tickets and information are available on their website.
• PoroCup 2026 (February 14-15): Reindeer racing cup in Rovaniemi. We are hosting the preliminary round. You can find out more on their official website (it is only in Finnish).
• Finnish ski holidays (usually weeks 8-10): Okay, so this is not an official holiday, but kids are out of school for a week during this time and the Finns love to flock to the ski resorts up here in Lapland. Just something to note if you are searching for accommodation and are surprised by the higher prices.

What to Wear & Bring

If you’re visiting in February, dress warmly! It is still very cold and snowy, so I advise packing the following:

• Parka or heavy winter coat
• Wool sweater (I like ones from Devold of Norway or Dale of Norway)
• Base layers (I use ones from Kari Traa… but they are only for females. Devold of Norway is also good for men and women both.)
• Mittens or gloves (I prefer mittens as they keep your hands warmer)
• Wool socks
• Snowboots (I would bring your warmest pair of boots for a February visit)
• Crampons (February can get icy toward the end of the month, so good to bring if you aren’t skilled at walking on ice)
• Hat
• Mobile power bank (phone batteries can drain in cold weather, especially on northern lights tours)

If you are going on a tour (besides a northern lights tour), look to see if a suit is included. If you want to rent clothing for your trip, you can do so at Wild Nordic (at SCV) or Winter Rent (in the city center).

FAQ about Lapland in February

Is snow guaranteed in Lapland in February?

Pretty much, yes. Or at least there will be some on the ground. Now, how much depends on the season we have had up until this point! This year has been pretty void of snow, to be honest.

I am hoping we get more by the time February rolls around. But, there should be enough on the ground for activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dog-sledding, skiing, etc.

Can you see the northern lights in Lapland in February?

If the skies are clear and aurora activity is up, yes! Activity and clear skies tend to pick up closer to March, so if you’re coming earlier in February, try to book as many nights as you can to maximize your chances.

Is Santa Claus Village open year-round?

Yes, you can visit Santa in February (and the lines are far shorter than in December).

Should you visit Rovaniemi in February?

I think February is a fantastic time to visit Rovaniemi and a great month to come if snow is a priority! March can get a bit icy and before the New Year, snow is never guaranteed. But February tends to be pretty reliable.

Prices are also lower than in December and crowds are smaller than in March (school holidays).

Please let me know if you have any questions about booking a trip to Rovaniemi in February. Thanks!

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