Little Christmas Knitting and Wellbeing Retreat 27-29.11.2026

Three days of Christmas spirit, the joy of knitting and good mood!

Let everyday life wait for a moment and come and spend an atmospheric little Christmas retreat in Tanhuvaara. The enchantment of yarns – the knitters' little Christmas retreat combines the peace of making with your hands, Christmas togetherness, gentle exercise and relaxation in beautiful lake landscapes.

During the weekend, knit your own Christmas gift project – a beanie, socks or mittens that go together beautifully. You can make one product or aim to knit an entire warm gift set. You will receive guidance and inspiration throughout the weekend.

And since it's a knitters' little Christmas, there will also be mulled wine, Christmas music, candles, the warmth of a lakeside sauna, and unhurried togetherness.

Weekend highlights

✨ Knit something beautiful and useful
Choose your own project: hat, socks or mittensYou can even create a wonderful Christmas gift set for yourself or a loved one from compatible products.

🎄 Get in the Christmas spirit without the Christmas rush
Mulled wine, Christmas music, candles, Christmas treats and a little Christmas atmosphere – but without the gift panic or busy shopping trips.

🧶 Let's knit together
Knitting together is the heart of the weekend. You can exchange tips, get inspired by others' work, and enjoy being surrounded by people who love yarn and making things with their hands.

🧘 Take care of your body too
The knitting is balanced with gentle exercise, stretching, relaxation and moments of well-being. Special attention is also paid to the neck and shoulder area, hands and muscles that support the knitting position.

🌲 Enjoy the nature and peace of Tanhuvaara
Lake views, outdoor trails, lakeside saunas and comfortable facilities make the retreat an easy escape from everyday life. All you have to do is show up – we'll take care of the rest.

What are you knitting over the weekend?

The theme of this retreat is knitwear that goes well together and is perfect for Christmas gifts.

For example, you can choose:
🧶 Beanie
🧦 Socks
🧤 Lapaset

Or why not do the whole package?

You will receive personal tips from the instructor when choosing a project and materials. During the weekend, the project will be progressed together in guided knitting sessions, and if necessary, you will receive help with techniques and progress of the work.

The price of the material package is 20-60 € depending on the product/quantity to be knitted. The course package is purchased directly from the instructors on site. Participation in the retreat requires redemption of the package. The package is paid on site directly to the instructors.

Pack your own needles and other tools, the knitting kit includes instructions and yarn. There is also the opportunity to purchase other yarns and knitting supplies for other craft projects on site.

WHY COME TO TANHUVAARA?

• The lakeside setting creates a peaceful and creative environment.
• The program is led by professional craft and physical education instructors.
• The atmosphere is warm and approachable.
• Full board makes the weekend hassle-free – all you have to do is show up.
• Short distances and a clear schedule guarantee a relaxing retreat

Preliminary program

PRICES AND CONTENT

Price for 2 person €230 / person / in a single room
Price for 1 person €300 / person / in a single room

The price includes:

• accommodation
• full board meals according to the program
• guided program
• free use of the gym and Sport Spa during public hours
• linens and towels

Knitting kit €20-60 (paid on site, card payment accepted). Includes instructions and yarn.

Meet the instructors!

The knitting instructors are Riikka Denby-Pettersson and Heli Hämäläinen.

Heli and Riikka are long-time craftsmen, for whom a passionate hobby has developed into a profession. 

Heli has been the renowned leader of Kuopio Nappi ja Nauhaa for several decades, and Riikka has moved from behind the counter at the yarn shop Riikka-Piika to the handicraft sector as a sales representative. We are not super-masters of knitting, and you can't become one in this field, when there is always something new to learn and try (- not to mention all the most wonderful yarns in the world), but we are eager learners and creators.

IMPORTANT ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• An information letter and invoice will be sent 2–3 weeks before the event.
• Further information: Sales service 044 715 0400
• Short walks to sports facilities and services.
• Parking is free in the Tanhuvaara area.
• Spa and sauna facilities available according to the program and during public hours.

Comments from the November 2025 retreat

"A suitable balance of exercise and knitting. Good instructors for both exercise and knitting sessions."
"I had been waiting for a long time for someone to organize a knitting event in Eastern Finland. A communal and warm-hearted weekend."
"The event was very diverse: good workouts, good food, good accommodation and good instructors."

FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I come alone?
Yes – most people come alone, and the atmosphere is very warm and communal.

Do you have to be a skilled knitter?
No need. The retreat is suitable for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.

Do I need to bring my own supplies?
No. The accessory package includes everything and is available for purchase on site.

Are special diets catered for?
Yes, all special diets will be taken into account when you inform us of them when registering.

How does accommodation work?
Accommodation is in 1–3-person rooms in Tanhuvaara accommodation buildings.

What do I do if I need to cancel?
You can find the cancellation terms and conditions when you register – we are also happy to help you by phone.

Give yourself a weekend that truly does you good – time to rest, be inspired, and create something beautiful. Places fill up fast, so secure your spot early!

💙 sign up
🤍 Ask on WhatsApp
🤍 Leave a callback request
 📞 Call sales service: 044 715 0400

The course is a liberal arts education program, which is regulated by the Liberal Arts Education Act (632/1998).