Set Jetting in Røros and Østerdalen - Christmas Edition

When a soft blanket of snow settles over Røros and Østerdalen, it’s not only the locals who feel the magic of Christmas awakening. For decades, film crews, authors and animators have travelled here to capture the atmosphere created by our wooden houses, open landscapes and crisp winter light. The result? Some of the most beloved Christmas tales in Norwegian film history.

 

Pippi Longstocking Celebrates Christmas

When Astrid Lindgren’s Pippi celebrated Christmas on TV in 1969, Røros delivered the winter magic. The historic wooden houses and the reliable snowfall created exactly the cosy, nostalgic atmosphere the production needed.

Several outdoor scenes were filmed in streets that are easy to recognise today. In “Pippi Street” – actually called Sleggveien – Pippi hurls a giant snowball at the thieves chasing her. It’s a tiny moment of pure winter nostalgia, and the street still looks much the same today.

 

Frozen

Frozen may not be a Christmas film, but did you know Røros was one of the places that inspired the Disney team? During a research visit in 2012, the animators learned about traditional winter gear used by Rørosrein, and owner Magne Eggen Haugom demonstrated reindeer sled equipment and mountain clothing.

If you’ve seen the film, you may spot the connection: reindeer Sven and mountain guide Kristoff bear clear traces of what the team learned here.

Home For Christmas

This Norwegian Netflix hit quickly became an international favourite — and large parts of its charming Christmas universe were filmed in Røros. The combination of snow-covered streets, wooden architecture and local life gives the series the warmth and humour that fans return to year after year.

One iconic moment from the show is Johanne racing down Kjerkgata on a kick-sled. It’s become so popular that people now recreate the scene — have you tried it?

 

"Reisen til julestjernen"

The original film – a Christmas Eve tradition for many Norwegians – used Savalen in Østerdalen as one of its main locations. The iconic winter landscape served as the backdrop for the kingdom in the story, and many of the “little elves” appearing throughout the film were played by local children.

Whether you know the film by heart or are discovering it for the first time, the snowy scenery from our region is impossible to miss.

"Jul i Blåfjell"

Jul i Blåfjell is one of NRK’s most beloved Christmas calendars of all time, and much of its shimmering blue universe was filmed in Røros. The mix of folklore, winter mystique and heartwarming storytelling fits perfectly with the town’s atmosphere.

When Turte sneaks out to explore the human world, she visits farmyards and courtyards that feel instantly familiar to anyone who has wandered the narrow streets here. Meanwhile, Blåmor and Blåfar ensure that the “blue hour” – that magical twilight of December – is always present. And just like in the series, that same blue light settles over Røros every winter afternoon.

"Flåklypa Grand Prix"

Though not originally a Christmas film, Flåklypa Grand Prix has become a holiday staple in many Norwegian homes. Kjell Aukrust’s universe — filled with quirky characters and lovingly drawn rural landscapes — is deeply tied to Norwegian Christmas nostalgia.

Aukrust grew up in Alvdal in Østerdalen, and that’s why the Flåklypa world feels so recognisable for anyone who knows the region. You can dive deeper into his life and creations at the Aukrust Center (Huset Aukrust) in Alvdal.

Experience the Christmas Magic for Yourself

Want to walk in Johanne’s footsteps from Home for Christmas, stroll through Pippi’s street, or ski through landscapes from "Reisen til julestjernen"?

Røros and Østerdalen offer real-life Christmas scenery — the kind you normally only see on screen. Come and experience the stories where they were created, year after year.