10 × traditional Finnish Christmas decorations—straw himmeli, paper angels, Santa’s elves and more!
Straw goats, angel chimes, and a paper flag garland on the Christmas tree—we’ve gathered some atmospheric images of traditional Finnish Christmas decorations. See how Christmas used to look in Finland (and still can!)
1. Straw goat
Straw goats made from rye and other grains have a long history as Christmas decorations. In the past, people believed these goats had magical powers! A traditional straw goat still fits perfectly in Finnish Christmas décor, whether one’s home is old or modern.
2. Himmeli
Is there anything more atmospheric than a himmeli gently swaying in the slightest breeze? Straw himmelis have long marked the end of the harvest season across Europe, but in Finland and Sweden they’ve become cherished Christmas decorations. Check out these instructions for making a traditional himmeli.
3. Flag garland
In many homes, the Christmas tree has traditionally been adorned with a flag garland, a star on top, and real candles. It’s best to skip real candles these days, of course, but a flag garland will still look just as lovely! Check out these instructions on how to sew a traditional flag garland [in Finnish].
4. Paper angels
These delicate angels are a staple for those who favor Christmas nostalgia over modern decorations. Made from paper, a wooden bead, and thread, these beautiful paper angels can be created for example from pages of old, unneeded books or magazines.
5. Evergreens
Fresh evergreens bring the scent and feel of a traditional Christmas—beyond just the tree. Place a small forest spruce in a vase, add evergreen branches to a flower box, or craft a lush evergreen ball for the doorway [in Finnish]! Just remember to get the landowner’s permission before gathering branches.
6. Candle chandelier and window candlestick
Real candles are an important part of Christmas for many who love tradition, and an essential way of creating a warm atmosphere on Christmas Eve (that’s when Finns traditionally celebrate Christmas). While nothing truly compares to the glow of a real flame, the Finns who grew up in the 1980s and 90s often feel a wave of nostalgia when they see an electric candelabra on the windowsill.
7. Angel chimes
For many, the magical tinkling of an angel chime is something that takes them right back to childhood Christmases. The sound brings an instant sense of calm.
8. Dried oranges
Some of the best decorations are homemade from recycled materials and simple supplies. You can create a cozy holiday mood by drying orange slices, which work well in many still-life arrangements, as ornaments on the tree, or even in a wreath [in Finnish]. Check out this easy guide to drying oranges.
9. Elves or gnomes
In Finland, Santa’s elves traditionally look like little garden gnomes wearing a red hat. All kinds of charming miniature elves add a vintage touch—and never go out of Christmas style. Best of all, they’re often easy to find at Finnish recycling centers and flea markets. These gnome-like figures also adorn many windows as bright red cardboard cutouts during the holiday season.
10. Paper snowflakes
Making paper snowflakes is something many Finns recall from childhood. The best part is that every design turns out to be a surprise! It’s so much fun to get carried away making snowflakes.
