Finland to get second Moomin theme park in Lapland

The Rovaniemi city board has reserved a plot of land in Santa Claus Village for a new Moomin-themed attraction. The decision, made on Monday, paves the way for a second Moominworld park in Finland.

Moomins are beloved Finnish literary and cartoon characters created by author Tove Jansson. They represent a major part of Finnish cultural identity and are heavily marketed worldwide.

The original Moominworld is a family-owned theme park in the southwestern coastal town of Naantali. It opened in 1993 and attracts up to 200,000 visitors during its summer season.

The new park planned for the Arctic Circle will be smaller than the Naantali location. The working title for the project is Moomin Experience on the Arctic Circle.

Rovaniemi has experienced record-breaking international tourism in recent years, driven primarily by winter travel. The Lapland city is globally recognized as the official hometown of Santa Claus.

Moominworld Chief Executive Tomi Lohikoski said the northern location is unique. He noted the busy winter season and the high volume of international visitors in the area.

The concept for the Rovaniemi park is still in the planning stages. The company aims to offer interactive activities where guests can meet the characters.

Lohikoski stated that outside of Finland, Moomins often have a larger adult fanbase. He said this international demographic is actively shaping the design of the new attraction.

During the summer, the company hopes to attract domestic tourists living in northern Finland. The journey to the original Naantali park is often too long for these residents.