Kaamos (Polar Night)

Detailed explanation

Kaamos is the opposite of the midnight sun (yötön yö). During this period, the sun stays below the horizon entirely in areas north of the Arctic Circle. However, kaamos is not total darkness — during midday hours, there is a twilight period with blue and purple tones that creates a uniquely atmospheric light. This "blue moment" (sininen hetki) is considered hauntingly beautiful by many.

The further south you go in Finland, the more daylight you get, but even Helsinki experiences very short days — sunrise after 9 AM and sunset before 3:30 PM in December. The limited light affects mood, energy levels, and daily routines for many people, including those who have lived in Finland their entire lives.

The darkness is balanced by snow, which reflects available light and brightens the landscape significantly. Northern lights (revontulet) are also most visible during kaamos, adding a magical element to the dark season.

How it affects expats

• •Seasonal adjustment: The darkness can be a significant challenge for newcomers

• •it is normal to feel tired, low-energy, or melancholic

• •Vitamin D: Take vitamin D supplements during winter

• •most health professionals in Finland recommend this for everyone

• •Light therapy: Consider a SAD (seasonal affective disorder) light therapy lamp

• •widely used and available in Finland

• •Stay active: Maintain exercise routines and outdoor activities

• •even a short walk during daylight hours helps

• •Embrace it: Learn to appreciate the unique beauty of kaamos

• •the blue twilight, northern lights, and snow-reflected light

• •Social connections: Combat isolation by maintaining social activities and hobbies during the dark months

Key details

• •Utsjoki: Sun below horizon for ~51 days (late November to mid-January)

• •Rovaniemi: Shortest day ~2 hours of twilight in December

• •Helsinki: ~6 hours of daylight at winter solstice

• •Northern lights: Best viewed during the darkest months in Lapland

• •Vitamin D: Finnish health authorities recommend supplements for all residents during winter

Related terms

• •Ruska (Autumn Colors) — the colorful season before kaamos

• •Mökki (Summer Cottage) — cottage culture, contrast with summer light

• •Sisu (Finnish Grit) — enduring Finland's challenging conditions