The Arctic Circle is the parallel of latitude that runs 66° 33′ 39” north of the Equator. The region north of this circle is known as the Arctic.North of the Arctic Circle, the sun is above the horizon for 24 continuous hours at least once per year, and below the horizon for 24 continuous hours at least once per year. On the Arctic Circle these events occur, in principle, exactly once per year, at the June and December solstices respectively.The geography north of the Arctic Circle is predominantly ocean, mostly ice-covered, but a great deal of land falls within the Circle as well. The Circle itself passes through eight countries: Russia, USA – Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland. Very few people live north of the Arctic Circle due to the cold conditions.The Arctic Circle cuts right through Santa Claus Village in Finland. A white line denoting the Arctic Circle is painted across the village. Visitors officially enter the Arctic area when they cross the line. The line is a very popular photo spot for visitors.