Rovaniemi in January
The darkest month, but also the most magical. Blue twilight, crisp snow, and the best Northern Lights conditions of the year.
- Avg temperature
- -15°C
- Daylight
- 3 hours10:35 – 13:40
- Northern Lights
- Very high
- Season
- Polar Night
January in Rovaniemi is deep winter, with snow-covered landscapes as far as the eye can see. The crisp, cold air and thick blanket of snow create a magical atmosphere perfect for those seeking an authentic Arctic experience. Days are short, but the long nights are lit up by the Northern Lights, making it one of the best months to witness this natural phenomenon.
3 hours of daylight
Polar night territory. Most daytime comes as blue twilight, which is brighter than you'd expect and perfect for photography.
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 January.
Book your January activities
Handpicked for this month, available dates, real prices, instant booking.
Aurora probability: very high
January offers Rovaniemi's best aurora statistics: ~200+ clear nights per year in the region translate to roughly every second or third night being viable. Head 15–30 minutes outside the city to escape light pollution, common spots are Arctic Circle area north of the city, or the forest trails near Ounasvaara. A guided tour is the highest-probability option because guides chase clear skies across a wide radius.
January events & traditions
Arctic Lapland Rally
WRC-level rally racing on icy forest roads, free to spectate from designated viewing points.
Music concerts and art exhibitions in Korundi
Rovaniemi's cultural house hosts classical, jazz, and contemporary art programs throughout the winter season.
Local Volleyball Games – Arctic Volley
Catch a home game at Lappi Areena, fast-paced action and a local crowd.
Local hockey games – ROKI
Finnish Mestis-league hockey at Lappi Areena. Tickets are affordable and the atmosphere is authentic.
What to pack for January
The absolute essentials for this month, rent what you don't want to bring.
- Layer Up: Start with a thermal base layer, add a thick fleece or woolen mid-layer, and top it with a waterproof and windproof outer layer.
- Essential Accessories: Wear a warm hat, insulated gloves, a scarf, and thick wool socks. Don't forget thermal boots to keep your feet warm and dry.
- Tip: Bring hand and foot warmers for extra warmth during long outdoor activities.
Need full Arctic gear? Rent a complete set (jacket, pants, boots, gloves) and skip the packing.
January, questions we hear
Average temperatures are around -15°C, but -25°C to -30°C cold snaps happen a few times each January. Rentals of full Arctic gear are widely available if you don't want to pack for extremes.
No. Civil twilight gives you 4–6 hours of usable blue light each day, bright enough for husky safaris, snowshoeing, and sightseeing. Many tours run during twilight and use headlamps for the short full-dark period.
Nothing is guaranteed, but January has some of the highest aurora probability of any month. Stay at least 3 nights and chase with a guide, historical odds are roughly 60–70% that you'll see them at least once.
Yes, especially for husky safaris and Northern Lights tours. January is high season, popular tours sell out 1–2 weeks ahead.
Consider instead
Not sure if this is the right month? The adjacent months often scratch the same itch.
Polar night and Christmas magic. Santa Claus Village is at its peak. Blue snow, candlelit streets, and the heart of Lapland's winter season.
Light returns fast. Still deep winter, still excellent aurora hunting, but now with pink-blue sunrises over the frozen landscape.
Plan your January trip
Browse the activities available this month and lock in dates before they sell out.