In Banff and Lake Louise, the holidays bring a diverse array of shows, events and festive gatherings for all. Here are nine must-visit holiday happenings in Banff and Lake Louise: 

Santa Claus Parade of Lights  

The Banff Santa Claus Parade is the official kick-off of the holiday season. Grab a blanket, fill a Thermos and celebrate with friends on Banff Ave. It’s a must-visit, family-friendly activity featuring floats, performers and Santa Claus himself. 

Where: Banff Ave.   

When: Saturday, November 18th | 6 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.    

Cost: Free   

Photos with Santa 

A true holiday classic! Bring the little elves in your family for a photo with Santa at the Banff Heritage Train Station.    

Where: Banff Heritage Train Station  

When: Saturday, November 18 | 10 a.m - 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. 

Cost: TBD 

Free Holiday Wagon Rides with Banff Trail Riders

Nothing says Christmas like a holiday wagon ride! Banff Trail Riders bring you an authentically Canadian afternoon of fun with free wagons rides every Sunday. *All rides are weather dependent.

Where: The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies Parking Lot 

When: Sundays between November 19 and December 17 | 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Cost: Free

Banff Christmas Market  

Get out ahead of your Christmas shopping with some handcrafted, artisan goods at The Banff Christmas Market. Looking for a photo with Santa Claus? You’re in luck! He will be at the market on Friday and Saturday. He’ll be stationed in his own little house outside, so don’t forget to bring a toy or make a donation to support the hamper drive for Santas Anonymous. Check out our blog for details. 

Where: 1 Sundance Road (Warner Stables) 

When: November 24 - 26 | Friday from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Cost: $5 adults, Children 10 and under are free. 

Christmas Choir with Bow Valley Chorus

A staple of the community, the beautiful sounds of the Bow Valley Chorus will bring Banff Ave. to life this holiday season. Run through your vocal scales and join them in the Banff Avenue Square throughout December.  

Where: Banff Ave. Square

When: Friday, December 1, 8 & 22 | 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Cost: Free  

A Whyte Christmas  

Celebrate the season with a Banff classic at The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy crafts, cookies, carols, and of course, a visit from Santa. Don’t forget to scope out the great gift shop for some last minute shopping! 

Where: Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

When: December 2, 2017 | 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 

Cost: Free

Spirit in the Mountain with Canmore Cave Tours

Turn on your headlamp and head into the centre of the earth for a magical, musical experience. Part of Canmore Cave Tours  unEarthed series, guests and musicians will descend into the cave for a holiday concert to remember. 

When: December 15-18, 2017 

Cost: $129 plus tax. 

Theatre at The Banff Springs Hotel   

Start a new holiday tradition this year with a trip to see Banff Live Theatre’s Christmas Mavericks of the Mountains and A Christmas Carol at The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Local tip: come early and explore all of the amazing holiday decorations in “The Castle” . 

Where: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel 

When: Various dates - visit Banff Live Theatre for tickets.  

Holiday Shows at The Banff Centre   

Christmas isn’t complete without a holiday shot at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. There are several shows in the line-up this season including The Barra Macneils , The Jerry Graneli Trio: Tales of a Charlie Brown Christmas , Tom Jackson: Christmas 150 and The Debaters Christmas Show.    

Where: Banff Centre For Arts and Creativity  

Visit Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity for tickets. 

For more information about Christmas in Banff National Park, including a complete event listing, sample itineraries and more, please visit Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise.