Rumpus Media has been commissioned to make two Christmas specials for Channel 5 featuring TV presenter Gregg Wallace experiencing the festive traditions and activities from Lapland and Copenhagen.

In Finland Gregg will be voyaging across Lapland to see what makes the home to Santa Claus so unique; discovering the culture, food, history and landscape. In the second episode Wallace takes viewers on a festive adventure through Copenhagen’s Christmas experiences, exploring Christmas markets, festive traditions and tasting delicious treats as well meeting expert crafters and artisans who keep the ancient traditions alive.

Gregg Wallace said: “Christmas is without doubt my favourite time of the year and this year will be even more special as I invite viewers to come and have a look at these quintessential winter wonderlands.

“This is more than just an extraordinary culinary adventure for me – though I will be looking forward to trying the glow fried salmon downed with a glass of glogg – it’s about meeting the people, exploring their crafts, understanding the history and learning about their traditions and how they are kept alive in the modern world. And in Copenhagen I’ll be looking at the extraordinary history of the country, looking around the amazing Christmas markets and hoping to get a hygge!”

The two specials have been commissioned by Daniel Pearl at Channel 5 and will be Executive Produced by Fintan Maguire and Chris Parkin at Rumpus.

Daniel Pearl at Channel 5 said: “Channel 5 audiences love Gregg’s energy and passion that he brings to everything he does. I can’t wait for people to share his enthusiasm for all things festive on his winter wonderland adventures.”

Fintan Maguire, Director of Factual at Rumpus Media said: “It’s great to be working with Gregg again on these Channel 5 festive treats. Now that international travel is hopefully opening back up we can all start to plan trips away again and these shows should act as enjoyable and informing insights into these Christmas havens.”