The taster session soon drew to a close and the Elves took us to our next destination, the Arctic Circle.  

Rovaniemi is around 5km South of the Arctic Circle and I felt very lucky to have not only gone, but to have been part of a crossing ceremony.  We entered a dark traditional house with a wood burning fire in the middle.  The ceremony was performed and the story was told about why Rudolph has a red nose.  Our noses were then coated in black soot from the fire, which will glow on Christmas to help Santa find his way.

Activity 1 - Husky Rides

There can be only one word to describe this and that is Wow.  The main ride took place at night, and was a little too dark for my camera to capture, but it was simply magical.  The dogs work together pulling the sleigh through the snow.  There is a real sense of speed as the cold wind rushes past your face, and a real thrill as the speed mounts.  The smell from the Husky is one that will stay with you forever, the thrill and enjoyment from the ride will leave you forever with a smile.  A truly magical experience.

As might be expected there are some wonderful Christmas decorations and a great market.  I picked up some lovely decorations and some Christmas presents from here.  There are a great selection of shops, activity/excursion shops and restaurants.

Santa took off his coat and hung it with the Boys and Girls coats

Before taking it in turns to speak to each of the Boys and Girls.  As the only couple present without children we decided that we wanted the children to see Santa and we were not going to go up.  However Santa had other ideas and his Elf came to get us.  He spoke to us and asked what we wanted for Christmas and I told him.  It was the same as what I had wished for on the reindeer rides.