The Magic of Nordic Christmas Comes to Life at Expo 2025 Osaka

The spirit of Nordic Christmas has brightened the future site of Expo 2025 in Osaka, as the Nordic Pavilion celebrated a “Meet & Greet Santa Claus by Finnair" event. The event spotlighted a beloved figure from Finland, Santa Claus himself, and the symbolic lighting of a Christmas tree at the pavilion’s construction site.

The five Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden are jointly building a pavilion at the 2025 World Expo, a 17-meter-tall recyclable structure made of timber that will showcase their connection to nature and sustainability. The pavilion will have a Nordic restaurant and a gift shop.

In keeping with Nordic tradition, a Christmas tree with candles has been erected in front of the Nordic Pavilion and it will continue to illuminate the Expo 2025 Osaka construction site until Christmas, setting the scene for an enchanting holiday tradition.

The candles of the Christmas tree were kindled on December 4th by the Santa Claus himself. While these traditions have religious origins, symbolizing life and hope, the background has faded, but the dark winter days are very commonly lit by seasonal lights in all Nordic countries.

Happiness and Smiles – Supporting the Positive Country Image of Finland in Japan

For over 40 years, Finnair has been the official airline of Santa Claus. Finnair is proud to fly Santa from his home in Rovaniemi to over 80 destinations worldwide across Asia, North America, and Europe. The iconic Santa Claus delivers not only joy but a message of unity and hope during the holiday season.

“I hope that all children around the world can enjoy Christmas spirit and lights in their hearts this time of year. The lighting ceremony is not just the illumination of a tree, but an expression that the truest magic of the season lies in the acts of collaboration, in spreading joy, smiles, and in the excitement that unites all cultures”, Santa Claus said.

Finnish Commissioner General Nita Pilkama was delighted with the positive attention Santa Claus brought to the happiest country in the world:

"Finland is in a great reputation in Japan and sending a positive Christmas message in cooperation with our partner Finnair and Santa Claus will further strengthen our country's image. A positive country image increases the interest and willingness of international companies, tourists and experts to invest in Finland and creates business opportunities for Finnish companies. Santa Claus is an ambassador of goodwill, which has brought a great deal of media attention for the Nordic countries, as well as praise from the organisers of the World Expo."

Showcasing Nordic Values at Expo 2025 Osaka 

The Ambassador for Finland, Tanja Jääskeläinen highlighted the importance of trust and collaboration that are also at the core of the Nordic Pavilion’s presentations at the Expo 2025 Osaka.

“Trust among people and working together towards shared goals can take us incredibly far. We are aiming for a brighter, more sustainable, future for everyone. And the lights of a Christmas tree are a perfect symbol of this”, she summoned.

“Finland is the happy home of three S’s: Santa, sauna and sisu and we hope that these will become very familiar to all Expo guests during the next year”, she added with a smile.

Sakari Romu, Finnair’s General Manager for Japan says: "We are thrilled to be one of the Nordic partners for the upcoming World Expo 2025 in Osaka. The Expo will be a unique platform for us to share our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and collaboration – values that we hold dear at Finnair. It’s an exciting time to be part of this global event, and we look forward to playing our role in connecting the world’s visitors to Osaka, a route which celebrates its 30th anniversary in April."

The 'Nordic Circle' invites you to be a part of this legacy of goodwill. As we witness the candles flicker with promises of peace and fellowship, we are reminded, now more than ever, of the 'Nordic Circle's' message: "Together Towards a Better Future"

More information

Finland at Expo 2025 Osaka website