Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Experience the magic of Lapland with the Elf Hat Academy in Santa's Village, where kids can learn elf tricks, dance, decorate cookies, and earn a fun diploma for $44.

The Elf Hat Academy in Santa’s Village, Rovaniemi, offers a charming, interactive experience for families and children eager to learn the secrets of the elves. Priced at $44 per person, this 30-minute activity provides a playful glimpse into elf life and helps young visitors feel part of the holiday magic. Located within the Arctic Circle, near Santa’s main office, this tour is ideal for those looking for a quick, engaging activity that adds to the Santa experience.
We find that the interactive show is well-suited for families with kids of various ages, especially those interested in festive traditions and fun activities. The tour’s focus on elf wisdom, dances, and cookie decorating creates a lively, joyful atmosphere. While some reviews mention the activity’s short duration, the overall charm and personalized touches make this a memorable part of Santa’s Village.
You can check availability for your dates here:
Planning more time in Rovaniemi? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

The Elf Hat Academy is conveniently positioned inside Santa’s Village, just a short walk from Santa’s main office. Visitors are advised to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time and exchange their voucher at the ticket counter. The activity ends at the same meeting point, making logistics simple and straightforward.
This central location means easy access for those exploring Santa’s Village, which is packed with other attractions like reindeer rides and the Snowman World. The easy-to-find setup ensures minimal hassle, and the friendly staff speak multiple languages, making check-in smooth for international visitors.

This interactive show invites children to step into the world of the elves, where they learn elf language, dances, and tricks that help Santa during Christmas. The activity is designed as a secret visit into elf secrets, making kids feel special and part of Santa’s team.
Throughout the session, children can participate in elf dances, decorate cookies, and discover fun elf tips and tricks. The highlight for many is receiving a special elf mark and a diploma, which serve as a tangible reminder of their elf training. These elements add a personal and rewarding touch to the experience.

One of the most praised aspects is the friendly and creative elves, who act with kindness and enthusiasm. They guide children through dancing lessons and cookie decoration, often making the experience lively and enjoyable. A common note is that the elves perform well-crafted acts, although the performance duration tends to be relatively short.
Kids especially enjoy the decorating activities, like cookie decorating and learning the elf dances. The dances are simple enough for young children to join in, making the activity a fun group event. The certificate of graduation is a charming keepsake, especially appreciated by families as a souvenir of their elf training.
More Great Tours NearbyWhile several reviews mention the brief duration—around 30 minutes—most agree that it offers good value for money. The activity is paced well, keeping children engaged without feeling rushed. However, some note that the performance could be longer for the price, but the included activities like cookie decoration and diploma help offset this.
The quick format makes it perfect for fitting into a broader itinerary of Santa’s Village. Visitors can enjoy the show, then continue exploring other attractions like reindeer rides, husky sledding, or the Snowman World, all just steps away.
The Elf Hat Academy is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that visitors with mobility needs can participate comfortably. The tour is conducted in English, and video recording is not permitted, aligning with the activity’s desire to keep the experience special and unrecorded.
Participants should arrive early, and it’s best to exchange vouchers at the ticket counter before the show begins. Since food and drinks are not included, families might want to plan for nearby snacks after the activity.

Compared to larger Santa-themed attractions, this short, interactive session provides a personalized elf experience that feels cozy and engaging. The learning aspect—such as learning elf dances and secret tricks—adds a layer of participation that stands out.
On top of that, the affordable price and short duration make it an accessible choice for families who want a quick, fun activity without committing to longer excursions. The friendly staff and interactive format have garnered consistent praise, with many noting it as a highlight of Santa’s Village.
While many find the experience charming and delightful, some reviews mention that the activity’s length could be a bit longer for the price. Also, the activity ends quickly, so visitors seeking a more in-depth exploration of elf life might want to supplement with other attractions in Santa’s Village.
Since food and drinks are not included, families should plan to have meals or snacks outside the activity, especially if visiting during mealtime. Plus, while the activities are suitable for children, very young kids may find parts of the show somewhat challenging to understand, particularly the reading of elf language or instructions.
The Elf Hat Academy in Santa’s Village offers a warm, engaging way for children to connect with Christmas magic. The interactive show, combined with cookie decorating, dancing, and the awarding of a diploma, creates a playful and memorable experience.
Priced at $44, it’s a cost-effective addition to a day at Santa’s Village, especially for families with younger children. The short format makes it an easy, fast-paced activity that complements other holiday attractions.
While it may not be the longest or most in-depth elf experience, the friendly elves, hands-on activities, and delightful atmosphere make it worth considering for a fun-filled, festive stop in Lapland.
“My son enjoyed the session a lot especially as we were the only ones for that session. They have cookie decoration, dancing and lesson of Finnish. …”
How long does the Elf Hat Academy activity last?
The activity lasts approximately 30 minutes.
What is included in the experience?
It includes an interactive theatre show, learning elf tricks, dances, cookie decorating, and a certificate of graduation.
Is the activity suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the Elf Hat Academy is wheelchair accessible.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot to ensure availability and arrive 15 minutes early.
Can I record the show on video?
No, video recording is not allowed during the activity.
What language is the tour guide speaking?
The activity is conducted in English.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price.
What should I bring with me?
Bring your voucher for exchange at the ticket counter, and be prepared for a short, lively session with friendly elves.
Is the activity suitable for very young children?
Yes, children as young as 3 can participate, though some parts may be more challenging for the youngest.
What do I receive after completing the elf training?
You receive a special elf mark and an Elf Academy diploma to commemorate your elf training.