🎪 Stockmannin jouluikkuna: Helsingin tärkein jouluikkuna — missä katsella, milloin tulla, parhaat katselukulmat, kartta ja viihtyisät tauot

If you want to see how Helsinki switches into wonderland mode, come to the corner of Aleksanterinkatu and Keskuskatu. I like to stand a little away from the glass so I can see not only the window display but also the reflection of the evening lights — the whole city centre is reflected in it. Below, I've put together everything you need to capture this mood without the hustle and bustle: the date and time of the show, the best viewing spot, a map, tips for warm breaks with children, and a short guide to shots and angles.

What is this "fairytale window display" and where is it?

The Stockmann Christmas window display is a multi-part mini-scene in the windows of the flagship store at Aleksanterinkatu 52 (corner of Keskuskatu). The tradition dates back to the post-war period: every winter, the window display is transformed into a small performance — with movement, music, decorations and characters who live their December lives inside the glass.
The main rule is to take your time and view it from more than one spot: the composition is designed so that the plot changes when you change your angle. Come during the day and return in the evening when the glass catches the lights of Christmas Street.

Theme of the year and when to view

This season's window display is a fairy tale about winter in Moominvalley: familiar characters, warm irony, kindness and a touch of philosophy. The scene is about how light and attention are always stronger than loneliness: children easily find their heroes behind the glass, and adults catch their children's smiles.
The opening took place on 1 November at 2 p.m., and the display will remain on view until Epiphany (6 January). This means that it can be seen in December and the first days of January — after the holidays, the streets are quieter, and it is easier to see the details.

"We always come from Tampere in December. My advice is to stand a little to the right of the corner where the lights from Aleksi are reflected and wait a minute for the crowd to move. The shot turns out like a postcard."
— Elina Väisänen, Tampere

How to see the sights without the crowds

When to come. Weekday mornings (10:00–12:00) and early evenings until 17:00 — soft light, fewer people. The busiest times are Friday/Saturday 17:30–19:30.
Where to stand. I choose the corner at Keskuskatu: you can see both the stage and the reflections of the garlands. If you're taking a family photo, stand diagonally across the street: the characters in the shop window and your faces will be captured in the warm light.
What to bring. Mittens + liners, reflectors on your jacket, mini thermos. Keep your phone in your inside pocket — the battery drains faster in the cold.
With a pram. It is better to stay on the edge of the flow, not to "bump" your forehead against the glass: children will see the scene from a distance, and you will not disturb people.

With children: where to warm up, where are the toilets, how to stand by the glass

● A warm break: the most practical option is to go inside Stockmann for 15-20 minutes: a snack, a toilet break, a new approach.

● Place by the window: I give the "front row" to the children. My life hack is a small torch: shine it in your palm, warm it up, close it.

● Route: I walk along Aleksis to the shop window, make a short arc along Keskuskatu (less windy), and return to the Rautatientori metro station.

Guide to shots: 5 angles that "work"

1. "Postcard": corner of Aleksi × Keskuskatu, frame height at chest level; focus on the scene, street lights at the edges.
2. "Family": diagonal across Aleksi — I place the family in the right third of the frame, with the shop window and reflection of the garlands on the left.
3. "Details": low angle for children — close-up of the subjects; background — glare on the glass.
4. "Movement": a short 8–12-second video when the mechanics of the scene change the position of the figures.
5. "Night": after 8 p.m. on weekdays, the light is more voluminous and there are fewer people — the glass almost "mirrors" the city.
   

Reader's comment

"We flew in from Munich and happened to be there for the opening. My advice is not to try to take the perfect photo right away. Just look at it silently for a minute first. The story in the window seems to dictate the frame itself."
— Lena Fischer, Germany

Where to wait out the wind: cafés and winter breaks nearby

— Stockmann's indoor cafés are a lifesaver if your hands are frozen: a quick coffee and a break in the warmth.
— Fazer Café on the neighbouring streets — tried and tested over the years: child-friendly, with pastries and cocoa.
— Esplanadi — a short walk under the lights: if the crowd at the glass is dense, leave for 10 minutes to "breathe in the garlands" and come back.

If you found this material useful, share it with your friends, save it for yourself, and write in the comments where you stood and which shot turned out best. I will update the map with your tips — let's make the next walk even more convenient.