In summer, Lapland enters a magical period when the sun doesn’t set at all. In Ylläs, the nightless night lasts from the end of May until July, offering a unique opportunity to hike and enjoy the peaceful nature throughout the night.
The midnight sun captivates travelers with its special golden, orange, and pink hues, and darkness never comes as a surprise. The landscape and the silhouettes of the fells are bathed in soft light all night long.
But what exactly does the midnight sun mean, and where can it be experienced in its most authentic form?
The midnight sun as a phenomenon
The longest period of the midnight sun in Finland occurs in Nuorgam, where the sun shines without setting for 74 consecutive days. Due to the Earth’s axial tilt in relation to its orbit, the northern hemisphere is tilted toward the sun during summer. As a result, at certain latitudes, the sun does not dip below the horizon at all—this creates the phenomenon known as the midnight sun. For the same reason, during winter, the opposite occurs: the polar night, when the sun does not rise above the horizon at all.
Photo: Eetu Leikas/Visit Ylläs
The term ”midnight sun” refers to the phenomenon where the sun does not set below the horizon at all. It occurs at and above the Arctic Circle. A similar phenomenon happens south of the Antarctic Circle during our winter months, but due to the lack of permanent settlements – aside from research stations – it is less commonly experienced. Even in southern Finland, summer nights are bright, but the sun still sets every night. The closer you are to the polar regions, the longer this summer phenomenon lasts.
For those living in the north, adjusting to the increasing light after a long winter can sometimes be challenging. In spring, the nights shorten rapidly. Daylight can increase by up to ten minutes per day, and before you even realize it, the sun is shining through the night. Blackout curtains or a sleep mask can help if falling asleep in the brightness becomes difficult.
Photo: Christer Ådahl/Visit Ylläs
Tips for experiencing the midnight sun in Ylläs
How can you make the most of the midnight sun in Lapland and Ylläs?
The midnight sun is one of the best times to experience the pure and vibrant nature of Lapland in summer. In Lapland, it’s part of everyday life, but for those unfamiliar with it, it’s a truly memorable experience. While summer nights are bright even in southern Finland, the shimmering midnight sun in the sky is a sight to behold. The midnight sun is not just a natural phenomenon – it’s an experience that stays with you. How will you choose to experience it?
- Hike into the fells at midnight – One of the most memorable ways to experience the midnight sun is to calmly hike into the fells on a clear night while the rest of the world sleeps and perhaps enjoy a snack while admiring the northern scenery. In Ylläs, you can do this right in the heart of the stunning Pallas–Yllästunturi National Park.
- Head up into the fells to find an ideal spot to take it all in – Choose a higher vantage point to observe the sun’s path above the horizon. When picking your spot, consider where the sun will be during the night. It lingers in the northern sky at midnight, casting the landscape in golden, mythical hues. Pack some warm layers for your break and take time to soak in the view!
- A dream moment for photographers – The midnight light offers excellent conditions for photography enthusiasts. Nature is quiet, and the light is soft. On a clear night, the landscape looks like something out of a dream.
- Experience the midnight sun on the water – In summer, the waters are at their warmest. Go paddling, swimming, or try stand-up paddleboarding in the clear waters under the midnight sun. On a calm summer night, the sun reflecting off the water creates a surreal atmosphere.
A northern solstice – midsummer festivities under the midnight sun
Midsummer, the celebration of the midnight sun, is held in Finland near the longest day of the year – the summer solstice. Traditional Finnish Midsummer festivities include the sauna, bonfires, and dancing. Many people gather to enjoy good food and the company of friends during this special time.
During Midsummer, the sun remains high even at night. From this point on, the duration of the midnight sun gradually shortens, and by July, the sun officially dips below the horizon again. However, the bright summer nights continue for a long time. Later in the summer, even though the sun no longer peeks above the horizon at night, you can still enjoy stunning colors in the night sky on clear evenings.
Come and experience the midnight sun in Ylläs
The midnight sun is an unforgettable experience. It reminds us of the wonders of nature, and in Ylläs, you can witness it in its purest form, surrounded by the silence of the fells and by the clear waters. Come to Ylläs and see the midnight sun for yourself. Choose a nighttime hike or admire the sun from the terrace of your cabin. Sometimes the most powerful experience is simply to be still and enjoy.