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

Santa Claus Parade of Lights  

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

Where: Banff Avenue

When: Saturday, November 17, 2018 | 6 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 17, 2018 | 10 a.m - 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. 

Cost: $10 donation

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 Santa's Anonymous. 

Where: 1 Sundance Road (Warner Stables) 

When: November 22 - 25 | Thrusday from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Cost: $5 per day or $8 for the weekend. Children 12 and under are 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 1, 2018, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 

Cost: Free

A Christmas Carol

Brought to you by Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and Ryan-Carter Productions, 'A Christmas Carol' is a new show that promises to get you into the festive spirit. This must-see Christmas event is perfect for the whole family and tells the heart-warming story of a man named Scrooge who learns what the true meaning of Christmas is all about! 

Holiday Shows at The Banff Centre

Christmas isn’t complete without a holiday show at Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. There are several productions in the line-up this season including The Barra Macneils, Sharon & Bram, and The Debaters Christmas Show. Visit Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity for tickets.

Mountaintop Christmas

Starting November 17, load up in your mountaintop sleigh and visit Santa's workshop at the summit of the Banff Gondola. Enjoy Christmas delights and explore the Elk Interpretive Centre straight from the North Pole. All activities are free with gondola admission. 

CP Holiday Train

The CP Holiday Train is back for its 20th year in an effort to raise money, food and awareness for local food banks and food shelves. Join us on December 13th at 7:00 PM for a free concert featuring Sam Roberts Band, Kelly Prescott and Tracey Brown. 

Spirit In The Mountain  

Discover the most unique concert experience in the Canadian Rockies. Join Canmore Cave Tours and local Bow Valley artists as they travel deep underground for a holiday performance you'll never forget. Check out the experience with Canmore act Elk Run & Riot from 2017 below. 

Where: Canmore Cave Tours

When: December 14-17, 2018 

Cost: $129 per person, including all your gear and a guide. 

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.