What is The Best Month to See the Northern Lights in Finland?

If you're planning a trip to Finland to witness the mesmerizing northern lights, timing is everything. While the aurora borealis can appear anytime from late August to early April, some months offer better chances than others. So, when is the best month to see the northern lights in Finland? Let's break it down.

The Best Time of Year for the Northern Lights in Finland

The northern lights are most visible when the skies are dark and clear. This makes autumn, winter, and early spring the best seasons to experience them. The ideal window spans from September to March, with peak activity occurring between October and March.

But if you’re looking for the absolute best month, September and March stand out.

Why September and March Are the Best Months?

Why September and March Are the Best Months?

The equinox effect enhances geomagnetic activity, increasing aurora frequency.

Additionally, these months offer milder weather compared to the deep winter, making outdoor aurora hunting more comfortable.

Late autumn and early spring also provide a mix of dark skies and relatively stable weather, reducing cloud cover.

Best Month to See the Northern Lights in Lapland?

Since Lapland is the prime location for aurora viewing in Finland, the best month to see the northern lights in Lapland follows the same pattern—September to March, with March being particularly favorable.

In Lapland, the long, dark nights of winter provide maximum visibility.

However, midwinter (December and January) comes with challenges such as extremely cold temperatures (-20°C to -40°C) and frequent cloud cover due to snowstorms.

March is often considered the ideal month for a balance of aurora activity, clear skies, and comfortable weather.

Best Time of Night to See the Northern Lights?

Regardless of the month, the best time to see the northern lights in Finland is usually between 9 PM and 2 AM.

This is when the Earth’s magnetic field interacts most actively with solar particles, leading to stunning displays.

To maximize your chances:

  • Check aurora forecasts (apps like My Aurora Forecast or the Finnish Meteorological Institute’s aurora predictions).
  • Stay in areas with minimal light pollution—national parks, wilderness lodges, or remote resorts like Kelo Resort offer optimal conditions.
  • Be patient—sometimes the lights appear in bursts lasting minutes, while other times they dance for hours.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Finland?

Best Month to See the Northern Lights in Finland

While the auroras can occasionally be seen as far south as Helsinki, the best chances are in Lapland, north of the Arctic Circle.

Top Locations for Northern Lights Viewing:

  • Yli-Kyrö (Kelo Resort) – A hidden gem on the edge of a national park, offering dark skies and minimal crowds.
  • Rovaniemi – Easy to reach but more light pollution.
  • Saariselkä & Ivalo – Popular northern destinations with glass igloos and wide-open skies.
  • Kilpisjärvi – One of Finland’s most aurora-rich areas, near the Norwegian border.

See also: Where to See the Northern Lights in Finland

Conclusion: The Best Month for the Northern Lights in Finland

If you want the best shot at seeing the northern lights in Finland, plan your trip for March or September.

  • March: Longer nights than September, excellent aurora activity, and better weather conditions than midwinter.
  • September: First auroras of the season, milder temperatures, and reflections of the lights on lakes (before they freeze).

For the ultimate experience, head to Lapland, stay for at least 3-4 nights, and be prepared for late-night sky watching. With the right timing and location, you’ll have an unforgettable northern lights adventure

Thinking about planning your Aurora trip? Kelo Resort in Yli-Kyrö offers the perfect secluded spot with breathtaking landscapes and zero light pollution.

Come and witness the magic of the Arctic sky!

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