For Advent, SWISS came up with the idea of "LXmas", a unique social media campaign–– External website: the content may not be accessible to all users.: a special flight on the new Bombardier CS300 that would take the lucky winners of the SWISS competition on an exciting trip to the home of Samichlaus.

16,000 families from all over Switzerland wanted to embark on this visit to Levi in Lapland, and entered the draw online. And for over 100 people, their dream of experiencing the magical time before Christmas in the snowy landscape north of the Polar Circle came true.

Christmas reception

A festive winter world awaited guests of the special flight to Kittilä at the check-in at Zurich airport, and gave them a taste of what was waiting for them in Lapland.

SWISS staff had also worked hard to transform the interior of the CS300 into an unforgettable world of stars. And the anticipation was tangible over the finest dining and hot chocolate – everyone looked forward to a magical weekend.

Twilight and sleigh rides

The landing at Kittilä was followed by the short transfer to Levi, where warm snowsuits awaited the guests. The temperature of -10 degrees was somewhat lower than at home in Switzerland. Despite the freezing cold and twilight, the three groups of families embarked on a day that was packed full of winter adventures. The programme included a ride on a motorised or reindeer sleigh, a snowshoe hike and skilfully lassoing a (wooden) reindeer. In between, participants were able to warm up by a campfire. Afterwards, the winners of the SWISS LXmas competition dined on a range of typical Finnish delicacies. Samichlaus joined them after the main course, and had plenty of time to listen to the wishes of our younger guests.

Polar lights on the horizon

The next morning was free for guests to spend as they pleased, before boarding the CS300, flight no. LX8917, for the return flight from Kittilä to Zurich. Lost in dreams and with their heads full of memories, they gazed out of the large windows to catch a final look at the sparsely cleared runway in Kittilä. As the aircraft took off, there was a last glimpse of the world-famous polar lights – which everyone should see at least once.

Enchanting opportunity

SWISS wanted its LXmas campaign to remind everyone just what Christmas is all about: a festive time that is spent with the family. Even operating pilot Sven Thaler felt he had been transported back to his childhood on this visit to Lapland, and knows that it was one flight he will never forget.

LXmas to take off again

Christmas wouldn't be the same without LXmas, and while it was still the height of summer in Switzerland, SWISS was already busy with preparations for the next unforgettable trip. But would it be possible to exceed last year's response?

Almost 26,000 people wanted to come with us to Rovaniemi in Lapland just before Christmas. On 1 December 2018, the SWISS Airbus A320 took off for Rovaniemi. Also on board the festively decorated cabin: 150 lucky winners who had the opportunity to welcome the happiest time of the year with SWISS.

After a quick pit stop at the "Hotel Santa Claus", it was time to embark on the winter adventure. There were lots of activities for young and old, with a reindeer sleigh ride and a snowmobile tour being just a couple of them. And of course, there was also a campfire where the winners were able to fortify themselves with hot berry juice and a small snack. The event concluded with a festive evening meal and even featured a surprise guest who was responsible for sparkling eyes – and not only among the children: Samichlaus, Santa Claus himself.