There is a long tradition. Preparing for Christmas in Helsinki and throughout Finland begins with the lighting of holiday lights on the street Aleksanterinkatu. This solemn, festive event for many years is going with lots of people at the end of November.
The first time, the Christmas lights were lit in Helsinki in 1930. Then the street
Kluuvikatu was decorated to the most favorite holiday of many people in Finland.
On the street Aleksanterinkatu the first time festive light lit in 1949. Three kilometers of electric garlands, four thousand lights decorate the street. Owners of nearest shops in turn decorated surrounding streets.
Festive illuminations of Helsinki city center organize "Helsinki City Markkinointi ry". It is supported by the energy company "Helsingin Energia".
In 2012, the Christmas lights on the street Aleksanterinkatu in Helsinki ignite on Sunday November 25 at 15 o’clock. The holiday begins on the Senate Square in 14 o’clock. Santa Claus will arrive here and, together with the Mayor of Helsinki will light Christmas lights. From here along the street Aleksanterinkatu starts moving festive parade that passes by Stockmann department store, and then fall back on the street North Esplanade.
Far to the north, in Lapland, Santa Claus is preparing gifts for children and adults. Soon he will go his way through the cities and countries. On Christmas Eve in Helsinki, Turku, and other cities шт Finland will be announced "Christmas Peace" and the holiday begins.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.