December at Lillehammer and in Gudbrandsdalen is like a Christmas story filled with magic. A festive tale of traditions and unique experiences, held together by the bonds between those sharing the adventure.

Enchanting Christmas events

Create your Christmas story with everything from Christmas markets and concerts to visits to beautifully decorated family attractions.

How about a family outing to the Christmas market at Maihaugen – the ideal place to embrace the ambiance of centuries-old traditions steeped in Christmas magic as you stroll between the ancient notch-log walls. Lillehammer and Gudbrandsdalen play host to several uniqueChristmas markets during the festive season.

Explore the village of Ringebu, and absorb the magical, rural atmosphere as you enjoy some Christmas shopping.

Read more: Christmas events in Lillehammer and Gudbrandsdalen

Lillehammer at Christmas

A Christmas story can also be about those special gifts, and the old wooden buildings lining Lillehammer's famous pedestrian street are home to numerous small, cosy shops. Enjoy the beautifully lit and decorated shopfronts, and the warm, urban feel. Lillehammer is often referred to as Norway's best Christmas town, and with good reason. Embrace the magic of the season in these historic surroundings, with the sound of sleigh bells in the streets, vibrant Christmas markets, and unique cultural experiences.

Lillehammer has been awarded status as a UNESCO City of Literature, and offers an excellent choice of cultural events in December. Choose between concerts and other Christmas events, or visit Lillehammer Art Museum with its famous façade designed by Snøhetta architects.

Read more: Lillehammer at Christmas | A chapter in your Christmas story

The dream of a white Christmas | Snow and ski activities

A Christmas story should be seasoned with a dose of excitement. Gudbrandsdalen offers a plethora of experiences perfect for the adventurous. A twilight-hour snowshoe walk, dog sledding across the plateau, or skiing along endless trails and down thrilling slopes – the choice is yours. This is where the dream of a white Christmas becomes reality.

Lillehammer is renowned for its unique light, and exploring the outdoors in December is a magical experience. The twilight hour is spectacular, and if you are in luck you will see the sunset painting the horizon or the full moon lighting up the mountains.

Snow often arrives in October, and the region offer excellent opportunities for pre-Christmas skiing. It is home to some of the world's best cross-country skiing areas as well as some of the country's best alpine resorts.

Read more: Snow and Ski activities

Join us for Christmas?

Would you like to experience Lillehammer and Gudbrandsdalen before or during Christmas? Stay in a mountain resort, in the town-centre or at a family-orientated hotel with all the facilities, opt for accommodation in historic surroundings, or rent your own cabin. Click here for an accommodation overview. 

Welcome to Lillehammer and Gudbrandsdalen!
Welcome to your Christmas story!