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5 Best things to do with kids during Christmas time

Looking for some fun Christmas activities for the whole family? The Jyväskylä Region has you covered! Hit the slopes at award-winning ski resorts like Himos and Laajis, or splash around at Peurunka Spa with its thrilling water slides and warm pools. Animal lovers will enjoy meeting elk at Jämsä’s Moose Manor or taking a husky safari. Get creative at the Finnish Craft Museum’s workshops, and don’t miss the magical lights of Jyväskylä’s Christmas Park and the festive vibes at Toivola Old Courtyard. Fun for all ages awaits!

Photo: Himos Yhtiöt

Head for awarded ski centers

Experience the thrill of downhill skiing with the family in the Jyväskylä Region, where winter fun knows no bounds. From cozy lodges to winter wonderlands, the Jyväskylä Region invites to embrace the joy of downhill skiing and other winter activities with the kids.  

Himos in Jämsä, chosen as the Ski Resort of the Year 2022, offers a perfect winter playground for families. The resort provides a range of slopes suitable for all skill levels and Himos’s Snow fun family area, ensuring that even the youngest members of the family can enjoy the excitement. 

To combine city adventures with winter activities, Laajis in Jyväskylä is the top choice. This Local Ski Center of the Year in 2019 features 12 slopes and a dedicated family Snowland, with slopes and activities designed for families and beginners in mind. 

For a more picturesque skiing experience, head to Häkärinteet in Hankasalmi or to Riihivuori in Muurame. These hidden gems offer a serene environment for families seeking a more intimate skiing adventure. Enjoy the gentle slopes, perfect for beginners and relish the magic of winter surrounded by pristine snow-covered landscapes. At Häkärinteet, one can enjoy the traditional winter merry-go-round on ice called ‘napakelkka’. 

Photo: Hotelli Keurusselkä

Have a splash in the spa

In Peurunka Spa & Resort, the whole family can enjoy themselves. Slide down the longest water slide in the Nordic countries (dizzying 130 metres) and showcase your skills on the water climbing course. The youngest members of the family can enjoy the soothing warmth of the baby bungee pool. In addition to the versatile spa, Peurunka Spa & Resort offers several activities suitable for the whole family. Various indoor and outdoor activities, such as glow bowling and frisbee golf, keep the energy levels of the little ones high throughout the year. The lake and stunning outdoor trails entice outdoor activities. 

In Laajis’ range of slopes and Lumimaa, along with the snow parks, offer a diverse skiing experience for the whole family. Additionally, the courses and private lessons from the award-winning ski school, as well as a well-equipped rental shop and restaurant, cater to skiers. Winter days can also be spent sledding, skiing, snowshoeing, and cycling. Laajis is located just 4 km from the center of Jyväskylä with easy transportation connections. In Laajavuori Spa, the family can relax in the comfortably warm swimming pools with hot tubs and try out which sauna offers the best steam. 

Meet local animals

Jämsä Moose Manor, also known as Hirvikartano, is a unique destination in the Jyväskylä region. Nestled in a picturesque rural setting, Moose Manor offers visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with majestic elk and deers. Guests can experience the authentic atmosphere of a Finnish farm, marvel at forest inhabitants and enjoy the delicious food of the restaurant. Guided tours provide insights into the lifestyle and habitat of these magnificent animals, allowing visitors to connect with nature in a meaningful way. 

Embark on an exhilarating adventure with Husky Safaris in the Jyväskylä Region. Immerse yourself in the stunning winter landscapes as you glide through the snow-covered forests and frozen lakes with a team of energetic huskies leading the way. 

Photo: Craft Museum of Finland / Hanne Manelius

Have fun in the museums

Dive into the Craft Museum of Finland, where the whole family can have a great time! Once you have explored the museum’s exhibitions, you can head to the open workshop where you’ll find ideas, instructions, materials, and tools for various DIY projects. 

Aalto2 museum center offers an experiential learning environment for people of all ages. You can learn new things, participate in workshops, listen to guided tours, or just enjoy a nice day out. On the second floor of the Museum of Central Finland is Nappula, the children’s activity corner, you can play with old toys, try on old-time clothing or make, say, a button spinning toy to take home. Nappula has fun activities on offer throughout the year! 

Photo: Maris Grunskis

Feel the enchantment of the Christmas Park

Explore the magical lights in Jyväskylä’s beautifully illuminated Christmas Park. The lights illuminate the Church Park, creating a warm and enchanting atmosphere perfect for wintery adventures. Hop into Santa’s sleigh pulled by 5-meter-tall reindeer or marvel at the fountain made of light. The giant Christmas tree in the Church Park is a focal point of the decorations, standing tall and casting a festive glow over the park.  

Afterwards one can head to Toivola Old Courtyard to further immerse into the Christmas vibes. See the beloved Snowman animation shown every Saturday in December at 4 pm, munch on yummy Christmas delicacies and explore the forest of decorated Christmas trees. One might even run into Santa Claus! 

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