In Finland, the Christmas preparations start a month in advance so that everything is perfect. On Christmas Eve, families eat before Santa Claus' arrival. The meal is traditionally composed of ham, escalloped potatoes, salmon, rice porridge, and sometimes turkey. After dining, families often visit the cemetery to light candles in order to remember the deceased. During the evening, which includes a traditional sauna, it is a Finnish Christmas tradition that Santa Claus / Father Christmas visits every home.

"Joulupukki," the real Finnish Santa Claus, always uses the door when he enters, and asks the children if they have been good before giving them presents. Christmas in Lapland, or Christmas in Finland in general, with it's Finnish Christmas traditions, is a truly unique experience.

Useful link:
Laplandfinland.com: the official tourism portal of Lapland in Finland