When you think of reindeer, you might picture them pulling Santa’s sleigh across the sky. But in the snowy north of Scandinavia, these majestic animals have another thrilling role: racing. Welcome to the world of reindeer racing, one of Lapland’s most exciting and unique winter sports!
The following article explains what reindeer racing is, where the events take place, the best time to visit, and highlights five of the top events in the world. Visitors can enjoy an adrenaline-fueled spectacle deeply rooted in Sámi culture, the Indigenous people of northern Scandinavia, alongside traditional food, singing, and herder hospitality.
- What Is Reindeer Racing?
- Where It Happens
- When to Go
- The Festival Spirit
- Top 5 Reindeer Racing Events in the World
- How to Get There and Where to Stay
What Is Reindeer Racing?
Reindeer racing is exactly what it sounds like: people racing across frozen lakes and snowy tracks behind sprinting reindeer. The rider, often on skis or in a small sled holds onto reins as their reindeer dashes ahead at surprising speed, sometimes reaching over 50 km/h!
This is a wild, adrenaline-fueled spectacle, but it is also deeply rooted in Sámi culture, the Indigenous people of northern Scandinavia. What began as a way to show off the strength and speed of one’s reindeer has evolved into a popular sport and festival highlight across the Arctic regions. For instance, the most famous event, the Tromsø Reindeer Racing Championships in Norway, attracts thousands of spectators annually to witness this traditional sport.
Where It Happens
Reindeer races take place mainly in Finland, Norway, and Sweden, with the most famous events held in Lapland. Every winter, locals and visitors gather to watch these powerful animals thunder across icy tracks surrounded by snow-covered forests and cheering crowds.
When to Go
The reindeer racing season runs from February to April, when the Arctic snow is thick and the days start to get longer. Most races coincide with Sami cultural festivals; consequently, you will also enjoy traditional food, joik singing, and colorful reindeer herder clothing. For example, the Kautokeino Reindeer Racing Festival takes place on Easter Weekend and features the Sami Grand Prix, showcasing traditional arts.
The Festival Spirit
It is not just about speed; it is about community and tradition. Families gather, fires crackle, and spectators cheer as racers and reindeer blur across the snow. The atmosphere mixes competition with celebration, connecting ancient ways of life with modern winter fun.
Visitors can also try reindeer sled rides, learn about Sami herding traditions, or simply warm up with hot chocolate or cloudberry jam pancakes by the fire. The tradition is so strong that even a modern city like Tromsø closes its main street for the annual race, demonstrating the sport’s importance to the local culture.
Top Reindeer Racing Events in the World
If you are ready to see this thrilling sport in action, here are the top 5 reindeer racing events worth adding to your Arctic travel bucket list:
Tromsø Reindeer Racing Championships – Norway 🇳🇴
When: February
Why Go: Held during Sami Week, this is the most famous reindeer race in the world. The event takes over Tromsø’s main street, where racers in traditional Sami clothing fly through the snow while crowds cheer from behind snowbanks. It is an unforgettable mix of sport, culture, and northern fun.
Rovaniemi Reindeer Cup – Finland 🇫🇮
When: March
Why Go: Hosted in the hometown of Santa Claus, this series of races brings together the best reindeer and riders from across Finland. It is fast, festive, and full of Lapland charm and you can also visit Santa’s Village or explore the Arctic Circle while you are there!
Inari Reindeer Championships – Finland 🇫🇮
When: Late March to early April
Why Go: Inari, in the heart of Finnish Lapland, is a stronghold of Sami culture. The races here are deeply traditional, set against stunning frozen lakes. It is also a chance to enjoy authentic Sami crafts, food, and reindeer herder hospitality. This location is particularly revered for its commitment to preserving Sami heritage.
Jokkmokk Winter Market – Sweden 🇸🇪
When: Early February
Why Go: One of the oldest markets in northern Europe, over 400 years old! The highlight? The reindeer races through town. Between races, explore stalls selling handmade knives, fur clothing, smoked fish, and reindeer jerky.
Kautokeino Reindeer Racing Festival – Norway 🇳🇴
When: Easter Weekend
Why Go: This is where the Sami spirit shines brightest. Kautokeino hosts not only reindeer races but also the Sami Grand Prix, a competition of traditional singing (joik) and music. It is the perfect mix of speed, culture, and song.
How to Get There and Where to Stay
Tromsø, Norway
To get there, fly from Oslo (about 2 hours). Stay at Clarion Hotel The Edge for a modern Arctic vibe and great harbor views.
Rovaniemi, Finland
To get there, fly from Helsinki or take the scenic night train. Stay at the cozy Arctic Light Hotel, just minutes from Santa Claus Village.
Inari, Finland
To get there, it is reachable by bus or car from Ivalo Airport. Stay at Wilderness Hotel Inari for a front-row view of the Northern Lights.
The magic of Reindeer Racing
Reindeer racing is the Arctic’s answer to Formula 1! Fast, thrilling, and filled with heart. It is a celebration of culture, community, and life in the far north.
So if you are planning a winter adventure to the land of snow and Northern Lights, bundle up, grab a hot chocolate, and let the reindeer show you how it is done! 🦌❄️