Planning begins no later than autumn, the program is printed in November and after the Christmas holidays the days are hectic. The market is a mix of the non-profit, the cultural, the geeky, the spontaneous, the festive and tradition. For some it is the most important business event of the year, for others it is a day dedicated to reunions with loved ones. The last paint has barely had time to dry when it is time. Outside, tractors have moved on snowdrifts, markings for over 150 stalls have been set out, a snowfield has been built for the children and giant tents have been erected for food and partying.

The sparsely populated municipality with about 3,000 inhabitants is set to receive a number of visitors that could climb to over 40,000 people. I hardly need to say that it will be crowded both in the hustle and bustle of the market and for those who will be living there. Many people are renting out their homes, schools are closing and arranging mass accommodation, buses are bringing people in for the day. The market bubble is a fact.

Now begins a festival-like day where everything is real. Keeping track of the program is a must, there are about a hundred program items every day. At the flea market, everything from rubber snakes and candy to home-felted slippers and Sami crafts are sold. Jokkmokk's genuine shops are open, it's as far from the city's shopping centers as you can get. Here you buy directly from the people behind the products, you get good tips and stories. Maybe you'll find something to take home with you - or make a new acquaintance that you won't want to let go of.

In the market bustle there are famous unknown and interesting people. If you look closely you can see both ministers and artists under the fur hats. Last year Magdalena Forsman and I gathered some of them in our concept Jokkmokkspodden which was livestreamed from the snow scene. Here you can hear, among others, the artist Caroline af Ugglas Ida Ovmar Miss Universe Sweden 2016 and not least Care of Gerds Johan Wiklund. This year we didn't have time to do it again but maybe it will happen again sometime.

On Lake Talvatis near the city center and not far from Care of Gerd's beauty factory, reindeer races are held, among other things. Ájtte Museum offers exhibitions and culture. The food in Jokkmokk is an experience in itself, regardless of whether you choose street food or visit one of the crowded restaurants. This year, the market's theme is Arctic gastronomy, so expect a little extra. At Samiduodji and the Sami Education Center, you will find the best of Sami crafts and design. The activities extend far into the forest where you can participate in reindeer herding, watch moose and eat by an open fire. Towards evening, the music scenes wake up in everything from churches to tent huts and lounges. The nightlife begins.

While the market is going on, the light is creeping back to the north, the polar night has given way. The power of the sun's rays that for a short while every day hit the treetops at Talvatis gives promise of a new time, a new year. It's the best start you can get. Join us too!

Don't miss my talk "Taste of Sápmi" during the Jokkmokk Winter Market on Friday 2/2 at 2:45 PM -3:30 PM Ájtte Museum Auditorium. I am also the moderator for "Vuogga Snuogga" a presentation of about ten Sami entrepreneurs in words and pictures on Friday 2/2 at 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM and Saturday 3/2 at 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM Ája Sparbankssalen

Victoria Harness

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