A Festive Weekend in Banff and Lake Louise
- Sep 4, 2019
Things look a little different in Banff and Lake Louise this Christmas. Many adjustments have been made due to COVID-19 to keep people safe. Please refer to our Travel Information page for more information.
A land of mountains and high elevations, in Banff National Park winter always comes early. Maybe it’s the chill in the air or the softly falling snowflakes, but the whole region takes the cold-weather cue to get an early start on the holidays, too!
If you’ve set your sights on Banff and Lake Louise this December, we’ve got more events than light bulbs on the tree to ignite your Christmas spirit. The options below let you mix and match your way through a weekend getaway that is great for the whole family.
FRIDAY - TRAILS AND SCAVENGER HUNTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Santa Scavenger Hunt
An exciting and joyous adventure for everyone in the family to enjoy. Follow clues, find items, solve riddles, take pictures, and check-in along the journey to come out on top of the Santa Scavenger Hunt.
In Search of Christmas Spirit
Once the sun sets and the stars rise, bundle up in your winter woollies and let your eyes and ears be immersed in the illuminated trail, In Search of Christmas Spirit. Book your free tickets and check in at Banff Avenue Square before heading to the Cascade of Time Gardens to join a quest for Christmas spirit led by the animals of Banff National Park.
SATURDAY - Search and Visit Santa
The Search for Santa
Rumour has it that Santa has found himself a hiding spot somewhere Banff! Get the family together and follow clues throughout the town of Banff to search for Santa’s secret hideaway. Once you have found the jolly man, enjoy some personalized time with him and your family. This is an experience you won’t forget, but just in case you need a reminder, there will be helpers around to capture your magical moments.
Mountaintop Christmas - Banff Gondola
Possibly the most elevated Christmas celebration in Canada, ride the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for some holiday fun, including ornament decorating, a letter-writing station, and a Festive Photo Quest.
SUNDAY - Embrace Winter Adventure
With the dip in temperatures and a dusting of snow, Banff National Park is transformed into a winter playground for everyone.
There are a variety of operators in Banff and Lake Louise that offer incredible winter tours, including ice walks, snowshoe tours and more.
Families that love to ski will appreciate the variety of terrain available across the three ski resorts in Banff National Park. From sprawling “magic carpet” areas to unforgettable black diamond chutes, every member of the family will enjoy making their turns in the Canadian Rockies.
This will also be your chance to try a quintessentially Canadian activity - dogsledding! Climb into a cozy sled, hold on and witness the power of your team. The kids will love the chance to get to know your dogs before and after the ride.
LOOKING FOR MORE IDEAS?
Check out Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise for more things to do during the festive period.