As the Nordic days grow shorter and the fall darkness settles in, I took over Placemaking Europe’s Instagram to spotlight urban life in November-y Helsinki. It’s that in-between season when summer feels distant, daylight is scarce, and a winter wonderland is far from guaranteed. It’s cold, it’s wet, and coaxing people out of their homes and into public space becomes a creative challenge—but certainly not an impossible one. Throughout my five-day takeover, I shared some of the tactics northern cities use to nurture public life during the darkest months, hoping to spark fresh ideas for winter placemaking.
Here’s the rundown:
Lighting
To create a sense of magic while wandering around town, carefully designed lighting is essential. In the Nordics, we tend to stick to natural tones rather than a rainbow of LEDs. Fire—whether in lanterns, braziers, or fireplaces—can also add warmth and atmosphere to the streetscape.
All-season terraces
Light walls, glass structures, and covered outdoor terraces have become increasingly common, especially since the pandemic. They extend the outdoor season and invite people to linger even in chilly weather. But sometimes it’s enough to simply set out tables and chairs. There will always be those crisp days when people choose to sit outside.
Unique and magical shop windows
Under the glow of seasonal lights, browsing imaginative shop windows becomes an activity in itself. Great displays can even become destinations. In Helsinki, Stockmann department store’s corner window is a yearly tradition. This year’s edition features a Moomin story, complete with audio narration—an irresistible draw for families and passersby.
Art galleries
Galleries act almost like illuminated shop windows; in the dark season, you can often see the artwork right from the street. Opening nights, of course, are timeless magnets for people eager to mingle, regardless of the weather.
Saunas
Few things get Finns buzzing like saunas. Bring one into a public space and people will gather. Saunas thrive especially along the seashores, which can be the coldest and windiest parts of the city. In Helsinki, creative minds have taken this passion even further with Allas Sea Pool, a floating sauna and swimming complex in the old harbor. It has quickly become one of the city’s most beloved year-round destinations.
Inviting and inclusive indoor spaces
No matter how well you design outdoor experiences, many people naturally gravitate toward warm indoor environments in winter. Temporary structures like tents can host pop-ups or events, adding life to public spaces. On a larger scale, people often end up in shopping centres or semi-public underground passages—but not always. In Helsinki, we’re fortunate to have Oodi, the central library. It’s far more than a library: you can use tools like sowing machines or electronic workstations, reserve meeting rooms, work, create, or simply spend time. Anyone can walk in without a reason, which makes it one of the city’s most democratic indoor living rooms.
Winter sports
For some Finns, nothing beats the invitation to move. Ice skating rinks in central locations can bring joy and activity to urban spaces. Sadly, this tactic is becoming more difficult as winters grow warmer due to climate change. But when the weather allows, it remains a powerful draw.
These are just a few inspirations for winter placemakers. It’s worth remembering that public life doesn’t vanish in the cold months; it simply needs a different kind of care. I’d love to hear your ideas, big or small, for keeping cities lively even when it seems least likely.
About me
I work in Helsinki’s economic development department, focusing on the strategic development of the city centre and neighborhood-level placemaking. My pet project is Kallio Summer Streets, an initiative that has made my own neighborhood greener, more pleasant, and more alive. Come visit in summer 2026 and experience it for yourself!Find me on LinkedIn, Instagram, and check out my Urban Finland blog.
