Northern Lights

Northern Lights Alert!

The wilderness, open and wide lakes and hillsides of Kemijärvi, located near the Arctic Circle, provide ideal conditions for peaceful aurora viewing, far enough away from artificial light. The town of Kemijärvi has such low light pollution that the Northern Lights can even be seen from the town center or its immediate surroundings. Easily accessible spots, such as the shores of Lake Pöyliöjärvi or the Uitonniementie embankment, which offers a clear view of the northern sky, are perfect for admiring the dancing lights from early September to April.

Book a guided aurora adventure!

Find your local quide for Northern Lights adventure in Kemijärvi:

• Jauri Resort – Winter activities
• Santa´s Little Village
• Nature Stay

What are the Northern Lights?

Northern Lights are colourful light phenomena that dance across the sky, created when particles that fall from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. This natural phenomenon is common in northern regions such as Kemijärvi, especially from autumn to spring.

Top 3 spotting spots

• Kotavaara observation tower
• Kalkonniemi beach
• Bank of Uitonniemi road (city center)

Self-guided Northern Lights expedition – tips for a successful experience

1. Weather and forecasts
   Check the aurora forecasts and weather conditions in advance. Clear skies are a prerequisite for seeing the Northern Lights. Useful services include the Finnish Meteorological Institute’s Northern Lights forecasts page and several applications specialising in the Northern Lights.
2. Dressing up
   Dress warmly in layers – winter frosts or windy weather can be very biting. Wear warm clothes, wool underwear, a hat, gloves and winter boots. Also remember to bring spare gloves and woollen socks.
3. Accessibility
   Choose a place that is easily accessible and dark enough, such as a lakeside, a forest clearing or an open hill with a view of the northern sky.
4. Getting around in nature after dark
   Bring a torch or headlamp, but turn it off while watching the Northern Lights to allow your eyes to get used to the darkness. Be careful on slippery or uneven terrain. If you are going on the ice of a lake, check the safety of the ice and the area beforehand and, especially in early and late winter, bring ice axes.
5. Other tips
   Bring a thermos of hot drinks, a snack and a sitting pad. Give yourself time – waiting for the Northern Lights can take a while, but it’s worth it.

These tips will ensure a safe and unforgettable aurora experience in Kemijärvi!