What makes this Rovaniemi Paint & Sip workshop fun is that you are creating your own aurora scene in a cozy studio, guided by a local artist, with the Bengal cat Simba acting like the unofficial studio supervisor. I love the small group setup, because you get real attention when questions pop up.

I also like that everything is provided, from acrylic paints to brushes and an apron, so you can show up ready to make a souvenir. The one drawback to plan for is that the studio is on a second floor with no elevator, so it may be uncomfortable if stairs are a problem for you.

Key things I think you’ll care about

• AURORA theme you can actually paint with step-by-step guidance based on a pre-selected reference design
• All supplies included, including acrylic paints, brushes, palettes, easel, and protective apron
• Small class size (up to 4), which helps beginners get unstuck fast
• You can sip while you paint, with non-alcoholic drinks included and alcohol not included (you can bring your own)
• English or Finnish instruction from Laura at Lara Vara Art
• Simba the Bengal cat may join the fun, which is a plus if you like animals and a dealbreaker if you have allergies

A cozy aurora studio in Rovaniemi, with Simba watching your brush strokes

This is the kind of activity that feels like it belongs on your Lapland trip, even if you do not magically catch the aurora every night. Instead of hoping for perfect weather, you create an aurora painting during a 2.5-hour workshop set up for beginners and casual artists. The vibe is relaxed, friendly, and focused on making art, not performing.

The studio experience is intimate. The group is limited to 4 participants, so you are not lost in a crowd. Laura, the host and instructor, is welcoming and patient, and she keeps the class moving at a steady pace that still leaves time for personal questions.

And yes, the cat Simba is part of the moment. He is a Bengal cat who hangs around the studio, and people genuinely seem to enjoy the extra warmth he brings. If you are comfortable around cats, that little surprise can turn the session from good to memorable.

What you paint: an aurora on a 30×40 cm canvas, using acrylics

You paint on a 30×40 cm canvas. The artwork you make is based on a pre-selected aurora reference, and the instructor breaks down how to recreate the look step by step. If you are flying in with inspiration from Lapland already, this helps because you are not guessing what the final version should look like.

You use acrylic paint, which is water-based. Acrylic is much more forgiving than some other mediums for beginners, and the paint comes off skin fairly well. The tradeoff is that acrylic tends to cling to fabric, which is why the workshop specifically asks you to wear appropriate clothing and bring a change if you have one.

One detail I appreciate is how “real” the result feels. Laura helps you build the composition as you go, so your painting does not turn into a random splatter experiment. It ends up looking like an aurora scene you can hang up or gift without needing to explain what you meant to do.

Step-by-step instruction that actually works for first-timers

The workshop follows a clear rhythm. Laura demonstrates the process first, then you copy along while you paint, guided if you want extra help with each stage. The goal is that you walk out with a finished aurora painting, not just practice brush techniques.

During the class, you can expect support with the practical parts that usually trip up beginners. That includes things like mixing colors, getting the composition right, and implementing the design you are working from. If you feel stuck, the small group size helps because you get to ask questions without waiting forever.

There is also room for personalization. One helpful note from past participants is that Laura can work with you using reference photos you bring, so your aurora can match your own Lapland memories a bit more closely. If you do not have photos, you will still be guided through the standard reference design, so you will not feel behind.

The whole point of this structure is confidence. You learn the steps while you paint, so you are not trying to figure it out at the end when time is tight. That is especially valuable in Rovaniemi, where your days often fill up with aurora hunting, day trips, and winter logistics.

Supplies and protection included, so you can travel lighter

Your ticket covers the materials you need. That includes acrylic paints, brushes, palettes, an easel, and a protective apron. This is one of the best parts for travelers because art supplies can be pricey at home and a headache to pack.

The protective apron is important, because acrylic can stain clothes. The workshop notes that the paint washes off skin well, but it does not come off clothes as easily, so plan your outfit accordingly. I like this approach because it is honest, not salesy. Wear something comfortable you do not mind getting paint on, and consider bringing a change of clothes if you are worried.

The workshop also provides painting and protective supplies as part of the experience. That means you can focus on learning and enjoying the evening rather than shopping for supplies before you arrive. For solo travelers, this is a big deal, because it removes one more task from your planning list.

Sipping while you paint: drinks, pace, and a private-feeling evening

The workshop is built around a comfortable pace. You sip beverages while you paint, and the energy stays calm enough that beginners can keep up. Past participants highlighted the warm, relaxed atmosphere, and it fits the “friends around a table” feel of a studio session.

Non-alcoholic drinks are included. Alcoholic drinks are not included, but you can bring your own if you want. If you plan to do that, I suggest keeping it light and responsible, since you still need steady hands while painting.

Because the group is small, the conversation stays easy. You are not competing for attention, and it feels more like a shared activity than a class where one person dominates the room. If you are traveling as a couple or a group of friends, this is one of those rare activities where you can still feel connected without needing to talk the whole time.

Language and teaching style: English and Finnish with the patient approach Laura brings

Instruction is available in English and Finnish. That matters because it makes the workshop less intimidating if you do not speak Finnish, and it gives you a clear path to follow along. You do not need art-school vocabulary to succeed here, which is exactly what you want for a winter activity in Rovaniemi.

Laura’s teaching approach comes across as patient and supportive. People specifically praised her warmth and her ability to guide beginners through the steps without making anyone feel silly. You will not be rushed, and if you ask a question, you are likely to get an answer that helps right away.

One more practical bonus: you get to see a step-by-step demo before you start your own version. That gives your brain a visual reference, so when you start mixing colors and painting shapes, you are not working blind. It is the kind of teaching method that makes you feel capable by the end of the session.

Price and value: what you get for $93 in Rovaniemi

At $93 per person for a 2.5-hour workshop, you are paying for a few things at once: instruction, a private small-group setting, and all the supplies. Many “do it yourself” art experiences either charge extra for materials or assume you already know what to buy. Here, the supplies are included, so you avoid that hidden add-on cost.

You also get a tangible souvenir. Instead of buying another souvenir magnet or postcard, you leave with a painting you helped create. That is not just sentimental, it is practical value too, because it takes up less space than bulky items and it is easier to transport.

Finally, the setting adds value. A cozy studio experience with a friendly host, plus the Simba cat bonus, turns the workshop into a memory, not just a transaction. If your Lapland plan includes aurora hunting, this gives you a creative fallback. Even if the sky does not deliver on a particular night, you still take home aurora art.

Practical tips: what to wear and how to make the session stress-free

Plan to wear comfortable clothes. The workshop uses acrylic paints, and acrylic can be stubborn on fabric, even though it comes off skin more easily. Bring a change of clothes if you think you might get paint where you do not want it.

The studio access is another practical factor. The entry is not accessible because the workshop is on a second floor with no elevator. If you have mobility concerns, you might want to choose another activity that fits better.

You should also know the studio rules. Pets are not allowed, smoking indoors is not allowed, and vaping is not allowed. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and the workshop also asks that you do not feed animals. Simba is part of the experience, but the rules keep everyone safe and comfortable.

If you like animals, this can be delightful. If you have allergies, it is not suitable for you, since the studio has one Bengal cat. That is not something to gamble on.

Who this Paint & Sip workshop is best for, and who should skip it

This workshop is a great match if you want a beginner-friendly creative activity in Rovaniemi. If you like aurora themes, want an indoor evening plan, or simply want a guided way to create a souvenir, you will likely enjoy the format.

It also works well for couples and small groups. The class size stays limited to 4 participants, which keeps it social but not chaotic. Solo travelers can also enjoy it because the instruction is direct and you are not stuck waiting for someone else to finish.

On the skip side, it is not suitable if you are a wheelchair user, if you are bringing children under 18, or if you have animal allergies. The no-elevator detail matters too, since the studio is on the second floor. If you want a completely step-free experience, plan something else.

Should you book this Paint & Sip in Rovaniemi?

Book it if you want a low-stress way to create an aurora souvenir, with all supplies included and step-by-step guidance in English or Finnish. The small group limit and Laura’s patient approach make it especially good if you have never painted before.

Skip it if stairs are a problem for you, if you need a child-friendly option, or if cats and allergies do not mix. Also skip if you dislike acrylic mess risks, since the workshop strongly hints that clothes should be chosen with care.

If you are on the fence, here is my simple test. If you would enjoy a cozy indoor evening where someone helps you create a real finished painting, this is a solid choice for Lapland. If you only want scenic sightseeing and nothing hands-on, you may prefer other aurora-focused experiences.

FAQ

How long is the Rovaniemi Paint & Sip workshop?

The workshop lasts 2.5 hours.

How many people are in the class?

It is limited to a small group, with a maximum of 4 participants.

Is the workshop private?

It is described as a private painting workshop experience.

What language is the instruction offered in?

Instruction is available in English and Finnish.

Do I need to bring any art supplies?

No. Acrylic paints, brushes, palettes, an easel, and a protective apron are included.

What kind of paint do you use?

The workshop uses acrylic paints, which are water-based. The paint comes off skin well, but it comes off clothes less easily.

Are drinks included?

Non-alcoholic beverages are included. Alcoholic drinks are not included, but you can bring your own.

What should I wear or bring?

Bring comfortable clothes and consider bringing a change of clothes.

Is the location wheelchair accessible?

No. There is no accessible entry because it is on a second floor with no elevator.

Can I cancel and get a refund?

Yes. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.