Celebrate Winter in Banff and Lake Louise with the Magical SnowDays Festival 2025

From January 17 to February 2, 2025, Banff National Park comes alive at SnowDays, transforming the area into a unique experience of events, snow and ice sculptures, and family-friendly parties.

Looking for a snowy experience found nowhere else? You've found it in Banff and Lake Louise.

The experiences:

1. Live Snow Sculpting
2. Play like a kid in the PlayZone
3. Cowboys and Trick Skiing at Skijoring
4. Ice Magic Reimagined
5. Fill your social feed
6. Frolic in the Snow
7. Stay and play (or relax)

1. Experience live snow sculpting

Most people have never witnessed such dramatic art as a snow sculpture. The snow sculpting artists themselves can be witnessed sculpting multi-storey high snow cubes into masterful creations that will ignite creativity and leave visitors in awe at this unique event on Bear Street and Central Park.

2. Play like a kid again at the SnowDays Play Zone

Dive into winter and explore the best of winter activities! Go for a spin on the fat bike course, try crokicurl, experience Canada's national pastime, or start a snowball fight  - there's something for all ages at the SnowDays Play Zone.

You can even get your photo with the illuminated Banff sign, complete with views of Mount Rundle behind you.

3. Watch the sport that combines Alberta's foundational cultures: ranching and mountain life

Experience the breathtaking sport of Skijoring. Where cowpoke and their horse partners pull trick skiers through snow jumps right on Banff Ave. Join us for two days of heart-pumping action on January 18 and 19, 2025, shows happen at 2 pm. This is a free event, with first-come, first-serve seating right on Banff Ave.

4. Ice Magic Reimagined

For one week only, witness top-notch ice carvers in action at the Ice Magic Competition. Marvel at their intricate frozen masterpieces as you stroll through the magical, illuminated ice gallery under the starry winter sky at Lake Louise.

To participate in the fun, you'll need tickets, which can be obtained by staying overnight at a participating Banff and Lake Louise hotel. Tickets are complimentary with your hotel visit and include shuttle transportation to and from the site.

To learn more about participating hotels and get your tickets, click here!

5. SnowNights

SnowDays doesn't end when the sun goes down. Enjoy mesmerizing SnowNights events with illuminated snow and ice sculptures, exclusive dining, events, and after-dark activities. Whether unwinding after a day of winter adventures or gearing up for a night of winter celebrations, SnowNights offers a unique experience filled with excitement and unforgettable opportunities.

Find all of the SnowNights events here!

6. Get your Social On

SnowDays is the perfect time to fill your social feed with outstanding mountain scenery, including the illuminated Banff sign, which can only be seen during the winter holiday season. SnowDays will provide a spectacular view that makes the perfect accompaniment for your photos.

Share your posts with Banff & Lake Louise with #MyBanff.

7. Play in the Snow

What would an event like SnowDays be without getting out and exploring in the snow? Go on a guided snowshoe adventure, try cross-country skiing, or rent a fat bike. There are a ton of trails in Banff National Park to explore this winter with your new mode of transport.

Or strap on your skis or snowboard and try one of the bucket list runs at one of the three big resorts: Mt. Norquay, Banff Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise.

8. Stay and Play Longer

One day won't be enough to explore all SnowDays and winter in Banff have to offer. Stay an extra night or two and go see the immersive light experience Nightrise at the Banff Gondola or soak in the relaxing warm waters of the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

No matter what you do, winter is for everyone in Banff - whether you are looking for a thrilling adventure (like ice climbing) or a relaxing stroll, you will find it in Banff and Lake Louise.

For a full event breakdown visit our SnowDays page.