If you’re looking to experience a Finnish Christmas without all the modern, American influences then Liminka may be worth the trip on Saturday.

Situated about 25km from Oulu, the town of roughly 9000 will be play host to what it calls its ‘Old Time Christmas’ (Wanha Ajan Joulu) this weekend. So old-fashioned is it that the word ‘Vanha’ (old) is spelt with ‘W’ as it was in Finnish publications one hundred years ago.

Now in their fifth year, the festivities will begin at 10am when the whole thing will be opened by a priest, the local parish being one of the organisers. Lasting until 3pm, there will be host of musical events and theatre performances throughout the time. There will also be a Christmas Market – hosted by stallholders in old-fashioned Finnish dress - with various stalls offering handicraft and delicacies. In addition, not only Joulu Pukki (Father Christmas) but also the area’s famous ‘Star Boys’ will make an appearance.

Satu Sarin, the municipality’s development manager, is enthusiastic about the events and feels that it will allow foreigners to experience the real Finland.

‘It’s taking place in a very historical area of the town where many eighteenth century buildings have been preserved,’ she said. ‘It used to be the centre of the town before we got the railway.’

‘The main aim is at children and they will be able to meet Father Christmas,’ Sarin added.