Ancient Tradition Thrives at Salla Reindeer Cup in Finnish Lapland

Hundreds of spectators braved the frigid temperatures of Finland’s northern Lapland region this weekend to witness one of the country’s most distinctive cultural events – the Salla Reindeer Cup. The two-day competition, held Saturday and Sunday, showcases the traditional sport of reindeer racing that has been a cornerstone of Finnish culture for generations.

Against the stunning backdrop of the Sallatunturi fell, competitors of all ages guided their reindeer along carefully prepared tracks on the frozen Lake Keselmajarvi and through the snow-covered landscape surrounding the remote town of Salla.

The competition features various categories, with both sprint races and longer-distance events. Mushers stand on skis behind their animals or sit in small sleds, holding reins as the powerful reindeer reach speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour (37 mph).

“This tradition connects us to our ancestors who relied on reindeer for survival in these harsh northern conditions,” said Juhani Mantyranta, a veteran reindeer herder who has participated in the races for over three decades. “Today, it’s both a serious competition and a celebration of our cultural heritage.”

The Salla Reindeer Cup is part of the broader Porocup circuit, a series of races held throughout Finnish Lapland during the winter months. These events provide both entertainment and an opportunity for reindeer herders to showcase their finest animals while preserving traditional skills.

Unlike commercial reindeer tourism, which has grown significantly in Finland’s Lapland in recent years, these races represent an authentic connection to Indigenous Sámi culture and traditional Finnish rural life. For competitors, the relationship with their animals goes beyond sport – it’s a year-round commitment to husbandry and care.

“The racing reindeer are carefully selected and trained from a young age,” explained Kalevi Simontaival, whose family has bred racing reindeer for generations. “They have natural speed, but developing their stamina and teaching them to follow commands takes years of patient work.”

The event also serves as a gathering place for the community. Between races, attendees watched demonstrations of traditional reindeer herding skills, including the throwing of the suopunki – a specialized lasso used to catch reindeer in the wild. Young herder Antti-Akseli Pohtila drew appreciative applause as he practiced this challenging technique, representing a new generation embracing ancestral traditions.

Junior competitions were a highlight of the weekend, with children as young as eight participating in modified races designed to introduce them to the sport. The excitement was palpable as young competitors waited nervously in the starting gates before bursting onto the track with their reindeer.

“We’re seeing a renewed interest among young people, which is essential for the future of both reindeer racing and herding,” said Jonne Mikkola, one of the event organizers. “These traditions are vital to our cultural identity in northern Finland.”

The races aren’t without controversy, as animal welfare concerns have prompted stricter regulations in recent years. Organizers emphasize that the welfare of the reindeer remains paramount, with veterinarians on site monitoring the animals’ condition throughout the competition.

Tourism officials note that authentic cultural events like the Salla Reindeer Cup are increasingly drawing international visitors seeking experiences beyond the commercialized Santa Claus attractions that dominate Lapland’s tourism marketing.

As climate change threatens the fragile Arctic ecosystem and traditional ways of life, these community gatherings take on added significance. They provide not only entertainment but also strengthen the bonds between generations and reinforce cultural practices that have sustained communities in this challenging environment for centuries.

As the final races concluded under the weak winter sun, competitors and spectators alike gathered to celebrate not just the winners but the continuation of a tradition that remains vibrantly alive in Finland’s far north.