Finland’s oldest and third-largest city, Turku, sits on the southwest coast, just a two-hour train ride from Helsinki. Situated at the mouth of the scenic Aura River, the original town was settled in the 13th century and has been kicking off the Christmas season with a traditional Declaration of Christmas Peace since its inception. In essence, the message calls for harmony and grace, and the people of Turku truly take its spirit to heart. Aside from the declaration, there’s also a giant spruce tree lit up at Turku Cathedral, and the city’s official Christmas street, Yliopistonkatu, is adorned with garlands and light. The main Christmas Market is open on weekends the month before Christmas and has two locations: one in Old Great Square and another in Market Square. While the Old Great Square location is a family-oriented affair with food, concerts, Christmas characters and a boisterous feel, the one at Market Square is a smaller, more intimate event featuring high-quality products. Both markets offer a hefty dose of the Christmas cheer and goodwill that Turku is known for.
The Old Great Square Christmas brings the scents and atmosphere of Christmas to the Old Great Square on four pre-Christmas weekends:
23.–24.11.
30.11.–1.12.
7.–8.12.
14.–15.12.2024
The event takes place every day from 11.00 to 17.00.
The New Design Christmas Market is held on December 8, 2024, from 11.00 to 17.00 at Logomo, and provides an inclusive overview of the latest Finnish design. The event features over 70 design brands from all over Finland! DJ provides the music, and Teatron restaurant offers delicious food all day. There are also fun activities for the little ones in the family.
