Helsinki’s Best Christmas Markets – six festive spots you don’t want to miss

The city’s most iconic Christmas market takes place in Helsinki’s most beautiful square, Senate Square, surrounded by the Cathedral and neoclassical buildings. With such a rich offering of food and gifts, CNN named Tuomaan Markkinat one of the best Christmas markets in the world in 2024. And of course, Santa makes an appearance.

For three weeks, you can expect food, sustainable design and an unhurried festive atmosphere. Nearly 30 food stalls serve everything from Finnish Christmas porridge to Georgian khachapuri and Korean corndogs. The gift lane showcases Finnish crafts and small brands, from marmalades flavoured with wild herbs to apple delicacies from Åland archipelago.

A free carousel is a family favourite. The programme includes everything from music to circus performances. Santa will visit Tuomaan Markkinat on Fri 28.11., Sat 29.11., Sat 6.12., Tue 9.12., Sun 14.12., Sun 21.12. and Mon 22.12.

Where? Senate Square, metro Helsingin yliopisto

When? 28.11.–22.12.2025, Mon–Thu and Sun 11–19, Fri–Sat 11–20.

Helsinki’s newest Christmas market challenges the traditional ones with a strong focus on food. Sample Pâtisserie Pihlström’s French-Finnish pastries, Yeastie Boi’s bagels, Rikiyaki’s takoyaki balls, Brera’s Italian treats and Puurobaari by N4KU’s inventive porridges.

At weekends, the Kukontori Christmas Market expands onto Yrjönkäytävä arcade, which transforms into an art-and-design Christmas walkway.

Don’t forget to admire Kukontori’s new, striking cockerel mural – the square’s name literally means Cockerel market.

Where? Kukontori, shopping mall Forum’s inner courtyard, metro Kamppi

When? 1–21.12.2025, weekdays 16–20, weekends 11–19.

A brand-new arrival beside Helsinki’s Market Square, the Manta Christmas Market promises to be the city’s most delicious festive fair. And it might just live up to the claim: the line-up is undeniably tempting.

Soupis ladles out forest-inspired soups served inside a loaf of bread. Poika & Pizza makes Neapolitan-style pizzas with a Finnish twist, while Seoul Fried Chicken – familiar from summer festivals – brings Korean fried chicken to brighten the winter gloom. Sweet treats come courtesy of Chéri Chou and Lauttasaari’s own Mutteri Café. Porridges are conjured up by D.A.R.E., whose name alone hints at bold flavours.

Also on hand is RikiYaki, known for its Japanese takoyaki octopus balls – you’ll find its stall at Kukontori’s market too.

Alongside all the food, there are gift ideas for under the tree. At the heart of the market sits a Christmas pavilion, doubling as a meeting point and a small event stage.

Where: Havis Amanda Square, beside the Market Square

When: 5 December 2025 – 6 January 2026, open daily 11:00–19:00

The Old Student House Christmas Market is Helsinki’s loveliest Christmas market – and the warmest. Held indoors in the beautiful Old Student House right next to department store Stockmann, this market focuses firmly on shopping rather than food. Dozens of artisans and makers are present, and you’re guaranteed to find wonderful Christmas gifts.

Be sure to climb the stairs to the upper floor. There you’ll find more stalls and the magnificent fresco Kullervon sotaanlähtö, painted by Finland’s national artist Akseli Gallen-Kallela. The tragic hero Kullervo sits on a white horse, blowing into a large birch-bark horn while the northern lights blaze behind him.

Where? Old Student House, metro Rautatieasema

When? 15.–22.12.2025, Mon–Thu 11–19, Fri–Sat 11–20, Sun 11–19.

Held at the Finlandia Hall, designed by Alvar Aalto – Finland’s most famous architect – this weekend-long Christmas market focuses on contemporary Finnish design. Expect art, ceramics, natural cosmetics, clothing, accessories and jewellery from local makers.

While you’re there, it’s worth visiting Finlandia Hall’s new exhibition on Alvar Aalto and his influence on Finnish design. For refreshments, head to Finlandia Cafe & Wine, decorated with original Aalto furniture and lighting, and enjoy wintery views over Töölönlahti through the hall’s expansive windows.

Where? Finlandia Hall, Mannerheimintie 13 E, metro Rautatieasema

When? Saturday 13.12. 12–18 and Sunday 14.12. 11–17.

The Teurastamo Christmas Market takes over the red-brick courtyards of Teurastamo – the city’s former abattoir – on the weekend before Christmas. The event has earned its place as a Helsinki favourite, having been held since 2014.

Details about the vendors are usually kept under wraps until the last moment, but one thing is guaranteed: excellent food. Teurastamo is home to several of exciting restaurants, so you can expect plenty of delicious surprises.

After the Christmas market, it’s well worth heading to The Helsinki Distilling Company’s bar in the same Teurastamo district – or joining the public distillery tour held on Saturdays.

Where? Teurastamo Kellohalli and Restaurant Palema, metro Kalasatama

When? 20–21.12.