“The Sámi Museum Siida in Inari is one of my favorites to visit. It’s a beautiful look into the Sámi world, where you can explore extensive collections and several exhibitions around nature and the different seasons. They were awarded 2024 European Museum of the Year.”

“The Ijahis Idja Festival is held here in Inari; its name means ‘Nightless Night.’ The event is the only music festival held in Finland that concentrates on Sámi music. It’s becoming more and more international and growing in terms of attendance. It’s one of the most significant cultural gatherings on the Finnish side! And you can also find beautiful handicrafts there.”

“Duodji means handicraft in Sámi, and this shop has a wide selection of Sámi handicrafts, music, and literature. It’s a perfect place to find a great souvenir while promoting local makers. I bought some music albums from here that I still enjoy today [including one from Sámi artist Solju; tap the link below to listen].”

“Every time I’m in Jokkmokk, I visit this handicraft store. It combines a shop with exhibition rooms that feature new handicraft makers from Sápmi. Highly skilled Swedish artisans, many of whom studied at Jokkmokk’s Sámi Education Institute, are featured here. Expect to find both traditional Sámi crafts and contemporary pieces, like innovative Sámi-designed kitchen knives.”

“Laponia is a must-see! It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s stunning and culturally rich, thanks to the Sámi. They govern the area by consensus, preserving both nature and tradition. The visitor center is a great spot to dive deeper into its story.”

“This is my second favorite museum (after Siida in Inari) and a place I have to visit when I’m in Jokkmokk. They have a wonderful collection of Sámi items and will often showcase new exhibitions. It’s a great place if you want to get to know the Swedish side of Sámi culture—beautiful collections of old and new from Sámi designers.”

“The Skábmagovat Indigenous Peoples’ Film Festival is a major gathering that brings film and arts enthusiasts to Inari to celebrate cultural richness. The festival name means ‘Reflections of Endless Night.’ This is the main arena for Indigenous film, bringing together filmmakers from around the world focusing on different topics. It’s a unique festival that keeps growing every year. One of my favorite movies I’ve seen there (I’m biased—I’m part of the film) is Eatnameamet by Suvi West.”

“This Sámi-owned shop sells some of the most excellent wool products, which I’m a big fan of. They use a specific method to make their wool, and only use natural materials with sustainability, functionality, and design in mind. Knowing that the production is in Sápmi makes [them] the best woolen products in the world! There’s a wool hat that is perfect!”

“I go to this festival every summer—it’s the biggest Indigenous festival in Europe. This vibrant scene sees a few thousand visitors every year, all enjoying the various cultural and traditional art forms. The fantastic mountains surrounding the area make the music, performing arts, and festivities all the more enjoyable. There’s even a children’s festival!”

“Tromsø is my favorite city in the north, and it also happens to be the biggest city in this area. It holds a special place in my heart from my years studying at university here. The steep hills, magnificent mountains, and wild fjords, coupled with its vibrant cultural scene, make it a worthwhile visit.”