Santa Claus Main Post Office | Rovaniemi

The Santa Claus Main Post Office is a charming and magical attraction located in Santa Claus Village, near Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland. This unique post office operates year-round, serving as both a functional postal facility and a place where the Christmas spirit comes alive. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the enchantment of Santa’s official communications hub.

Overview

• Location: The Santa Claus Main Post Office is situated in Santa Claus Village, about 8 kilometers (5 miles) north of Rovaniemi city center, right on the Arctic Circle.
• Established: It officially became Santa’s post office in 1985.
• Operated By: Finland’s national postal service, Posti.

What Makes It Special?

1. Official Santa Claus Postmark

• All mail sent from the Santa Claus Main Post Office receives a special Arctic Circle postmark, making it a cherished keepsake for recipients worldwide.
• Visitors can write and send postcards, letters, or packages directly from the post office to friends and family, ensuring they carry this unique seal.

2. Santa’s Letter Program

• Each year, the post office receives hundreds of thousands of letters addressed to Santa Claus from children all over the world.
• Santa’s helpers, known as elves, respond to many of these letters, spreading joy and fulfilling holiday wishes.
• Visitors can also arrange to send a personalized letter from Santa to loved ones, delivered before Christmas.

3. Year-Round Christmas Spirit

• Despite its association with Christmas, the post office operates 365 days a year, maintaining a festive atmosphere even in the middle of summer.
• The interior is beautifully decorated with holiday-themed designs, Christmas trees, and cozy details that evoke the magic of the season.

Activities and Experiences

1. Writing and Sending Letters

• Visitors can sit at one of the writing desks provided, complete with pens and festive stationery, to craft their holiday greetings.

2. Browsing the Gift Shop

• The post office features a gift shop stocked with unique Christmas items, Lapland-themed souvenirs, and Santa Claus Village merchandise. Items range from ornaments to plush toys, perfect for taking a bit of Christmas home.

3. Exploring Santa’s Mail Archive

• A section of the post office displays letters to Santa from children around the world, showcasing the diversity of cultures and languages that come together in the Christmas tradition.
• Some heartwarming or amusing letters are showcased for visitors to read.

Statistics and Fun Facts

1. Volume of Mail:
   • Santa Claus receives over 500,000 letters annually from children in almost 200 countries. The highest volumes typically come from China, Poland, and Italy.
2. Popular Wishes:
   • Gifts like toys, games, and books dominate the wish lists, but many letters also express wishes for peace, health, and happiness.
3. Arctic Circle Postmark:
   • The postmark is an exclusive offering at this location, making it a sought-after collector’s item.

Accessibility

• The post office is easily accessible from Rovaniemi by car, public transport, or shuttle services that run to Santa Claus Village.
• Admission to the post office is free, though there are charges for sending mail or purchasing items.

Seasonal Highlights

Winter

• During the Christmas season, the post office is at its busiest, with festive lights, carols, and a truly magical atmosphere.
• Snow-covered surroundings enhance the Arctic charm of Santa Claus Village.

Summer

• While less crowded, the post office retains its festive spirit, offering a unique experience for visitors exploring Rovaniemi in the midnight sun.

Why Visit?

• The Santa Claus Main Post Office offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends holiday cheer with cultural insight into Lapland’s traditions.
• Whether you're mailing a special Christmas card, exploring Santa's letter archives, or simply soaking in the festive ambiance, it’s an enchanting stop for visitors of all ages.

Conclusion

The Santa Claus Main Post Office is more than a place to send mail—it’s a magical destination that brings the joy and warmth of Christmas to life year-round. Its unique offerings, such as the Arctic Circle postmark and the chance to connect with Santa Claus’s global mission, make it an unforgettable experience for both children and adults.