Great Sami Winter Fair

Great Sami Winter Fair

Begins first Thursday in February

The Lapps, or Samis as many prefer to be called, are a nomadic people of ancient origin who still make their living keeping reindeer herds in the northernmost regions of Norway, Sweden, and Finland, and on the Kola Peninsula of the former Soviet Union. They started holding the Winter Fair, or Market, in Jokkmokk, Sweden, more than 400 years ago, and have continued to hold it in February because this is the time of year when they bring their reindeer to this area. The four-day event draws many visitors who are curious about Sami culture. It includes the marking of the reindeer, reindeer roundup demonstrations, folk music and dance, films, lectures, and the sale of special Sami foods and handicrafts. In 2004 the market celebrated its 400th anniversary.

CONTACTS:
Jokkmokk Tourist Information
P.O. Box 124
Jokkmokk, 962 23 Sweden
46-971-222-50; fax: 46-971-222-59
www.turism.jokkmokk.se/en.aspx

SOURCES:
GdWrldFest-1985, p. 168