Ruka Nordic 2025 broke attendance records

The event’s economic impact rose to 4.5 million euros

Ruka Nordic 2025 attracted a record crowd and strengthened its position as one of Finland’s most significant winter sports events. A new visitor survey shows that the event brings considerable economic benefits to the Ruka‑Kuusamo region, draws visitors especially from Oulu and, thanks to its long traditions, attracts visitors to a wide range of skiing disciplines.

Published 8 January 2026

In 2025, the event attracted a record attendance of almost 30,000 visitors, which strengthened Ruka‑Kuusamo’s position as the most attractive winter sports event in Northern Finland. According to the visitor survey, most of the spectators came from Oulu, and visitors stayed for an average of four days. This is directly reflected in the regional economy and benefits local service providers widely.

Ruka Nordic’s regional economic impact grew significantly, rising to 4.5 million euros. For many visitors, the event is an annual tradition, and other key motives include an interest in skiing disciplines and Ruka’s status as a high-quality, experiential event venue. Visitors gave the event an exceptionally good rating: the Net Promoter Score (NPS) was 65, indicating strong spectator satisfaction.

Niina Kukka, Event Manager at Ruka‑Kuusamo Tourism, is delighted with the results:
“Ruka Nordic is an important early-season event for us, and we are very pleased with how the event has developed. In particular, the increased number of visitors and the significant economic impact show that the event is more important than ever for both tourism in the region and local businesses. The NPS remaining at a high level shows that visitors find the event a great experience and are happy to come back.”

Harri Keskiaho, CEO of Ruka Nordic Oy, also highlights the overall significance of the event:
“It is great to see that our investments in the quality and service of the event are reflected so strongly. We received a lot of positive feedback from survey respondents on, among other things, the renewal of our restaurant services, and this was also reflected in the financial result. Ruka offers superb conditions for a top international event, and cooperation with local operators enables us to offer visitors an experience that stands out. Work to develop the event towards 2026 continues. Next year we will celebrate an anniversary, as Ruka Nordic will be held for the 25th time.”

The visitor survey was carried out in cooperation between Ruka Nordic Oy, Ruka-Kuusamo Tourism and Salmi Platform Oy.

FIS Ruka Nordic 2026 will be held on 27–29 November 2026. Take a look and book your accommodation early for the most exciting event of early winter!

FIS Ruka Nordic 2026