Polar Night

Rovaniemi in February

Light returns fast. Still deep winter, still excellent aurora hunting, but now with pink-blue sunrises over the frozen landscape.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Avg temperature: -13°C
Daylight: 8 hours
08:45 – 15:40
Northern Lights: Very high
Season: Polar Night

February is still deep winter in Rovaniemi, but the days start to lengthen, giving you more daylight to explore the snowy wilderness. The Northern Lights remain a common sight, and the snow-covered landscape continues to offer a serene, magical atmosphere.

8 hours of daylight

Sun rises around 08:45 and sets around 15:40.

At 66.5° north, Rovaniemi sits right on the Arctic Circle, so daylight swings dramatically across the year. The arc on the left shows how much of a 24-hour day the sun is up during February.

Book your February activities

Handpicked for this month, available dates, real prices, instant booking.

4-8 hours

February events & traditions

14–15 Feb

Reindeer Racing (Poro Cup)

Watch jockeys ski behind galloping reindeer at the Mäntyvaara track, a fast and authentic Lappish winter sport with nearly 200 reindeer competing across the season.

All month

Music concerts and art exhibitions in Korundi

Rovaniemi's cultural house hosts classical, jazz, and contemporary art programs throughout the winter season.

All month

Local Volleyball Games – Arctic Volley

Catch a home game at Lappi Areena, fast-paced action and a local crowd.

1–3× weekly

Local hockey games – ROKI

Finnish Mestis-league hockey at Lappi Areena. Tickets are affordable and the atmosphere is authentic.

What to pack for February

The absolute essentials for this month, rent what you don't want to bring.

Layering is Key: A thermal base layer, a warm middle layer like a wool sweater, and a windproof and insulated outer jacket are necessary.
Stay Warm: Wear thermal pants under your snow trousers, and don't forget insulated gloves, a warm hat, and thermal boots.
Tip: Bring goggles or sunglasses for protection against the bright snow and wind.

Need full Arctic gear? Rent a complete set (jacket, pants, boots, gloves) and skip the packing.

February, questions we hear

Yes, February is one of the statistically strongest aurora months in Rovaniemi. Long dark nights, stable high-pressure systems, and an active auroral oval combine for excellent odds. Plan 3+ nights and chase with a guide to maximise your chance.

Average temperatures hover around -13°C, but cold snaps down to -25°C are common. Full Arctic gear can be rented locally if you don't want to travel with it.

Yes. By mid-February you have about 8 hours of usable light, plenty for a full husky safari, snowshoe trek, or reindeer ride. The low sun also creates beautiful pink-blue light throughout the day.

Slightly. Christmas and New Year crowds have left, so tours are more available and accommodation is a touch cheaper, but it's still peak winter season. Book aurora tours and huskies at least a week ahead.