Kemi: SnowCastle Experience

The SnowCastle of Kemi is an extraordinary attraction that rises each winter, crafted anew from thousands of tons of ice and snow. Each year, designers, architects, and artists come together to create a unique version of the castle, with new structures, halls, and sculptures — meaning no two SnowCastles are ever the same. It is both an artistic project and a cultural icon, attracting visitors from all over the world to marvel at its frozen beauty.

Inside the castle walls, you’ll step into a wonderland of shimmering ice carvings, illuminated by magical lighting that makes the entire fortress glow. From fairy-tale corridors to dazzling sculptures, every corner is a work of art. Highlights often include intricately carved snow rooms, chapels for weddings, and themed halls where snow and light combine to create surreal atmospheres. The SnowCastle is not just an exhibition — it’s a living, breathing piece of Arctic artistry.

A central attraction is the Ice Restaurant and Ice Bar, where you can enjoy warm drinks or even a meal served on frozen tables and ice-carved seats. The menu often features traditional Lappish delicacies, offering a taste of the region in a setting that feels straight out of a winter fairy tale. Guests looking for a once-in-a-lifetime overnight adventure can also stay in the SnowHotel, where bedrooms are made of snow and ice, complete with thermal sleeping bags for comfort.

For families, the SnowCastle is a magical playground. Children can enjoy exploring snowy tunnels, sliding down icy structures, or simply marveling at the sparkling sculptures that bring Arctic stories to life. Guided tours are available to enrich the experience, offering insight into the construction process, the history of the SnowCastle, and the role of snow and ice in Lapland’s cultural heritage.

No matter when you visit, the SnowCastle offers a unique perspective on the artistry and ingenuity required to create beauty from ice. The experience is enhanced by carefully designed lighting effects, making day and night visits equally mesmerizing. Photographers will find endless inspiration in the glowing walls, crystal-clear ice details, and enchanting snow designs.

The SnowCastle is more than just a building — it is a celebration of winter itself. Whether you are here for a short visit, a magical meal, or an overnight stay in the SnowHotel, it promises memories that last a lifetime.

Approximately 2 hours

• Explore Kemi’s world-famous SnowCastle built entirely from snow and ice
• Discover dazzling snow and ice sculptures, redesigned each year
• Visit the Ice Restaurant and Ice Bar for drinks or Lappish delicacies
• Option to stay overnight in the unique SnowHotel
• Family-friendly activities and magical experiences for children

Prices start from 24 EUR (exact pricing may vary based on group size and additional services).

• Entrance ticket to the SnowCastle
• Access to all snow and ice sculptures and halls
• Visit to the Ice Restaurant and Ice Bar (meals/drinks not included in basic ticket)
• Opportunity to explore the SnowChapel and other themed rooms
• Guidance and information from local staff

• Open seasonally from January to April (depending on weather conditions)
• Dress warmly in layered winter clothing; temperatures inside remain below freezing
• Overnight stays include thermal sleeping bags and professional guidance for a comfortable night
• Family-friendly, but children must be supervised in cold conditions
• The castle design and theme change every year, offering a new experience annually