Guide To Christmas Events in Banff and Lake Louise
Things may look a little different in 2020, but we’ll still be celebrating the holidays in Banff and Lake Louise! Stay tuned for more information – we’re working on the best way to keep visitors and locals safe this festive season.
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.
Make sure to share your holiday event photos with #MyBanffChristmas for your chance to win a return trip to Banff National Park!
Carols In The Park
Ignite your festive spirit at one of these celebratory concerts filled with traditional holiday music. The warm, crackling fires welcome you to cozy up and roast a marshmallow or two! The concerts are free and everyone is welcome to stay as little or long as they like. These are outdoor events so be sure to dress warm!
Where: Banff Avenue Square
When: December 7, 14 & 21, 2019
Time: 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Cost: Free
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 16, 2019 at 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 Christmas Market.
Where: Banff Christmas Market
When: November 15 - 17 and 22 - 24, 2019
Cost: Free with the price of market admission.
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 15 - 17 and 22 - 24, 2019
Cost: $7.50 per day or $15 for a weekend pass. Children 12 and under are free.
Mountaintop Christmas
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.
Where: Banff Gondola
When: Saturday & Sunday, November 16 - December 22; December 23 - 30, 2019
Cost: All activities are free with gondola admission
Christmas At The Castle
Experience Christmas in a castle at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. From delicious dining to meetings with Santa Claus himself, Christmas at the Castle has a wide variety of activities for all ages. The friendly Concierge team in the main lobby can provide information on what activities are open to the public. Don't miss out on a classic holiday tradition with a live performance of The Christmas Carol, running December 7 - 25, 2019.
Where: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
When: November and December
Banff Centre Christmas Events
Don't miss out on a Banff Christmas tradition at Banff Centre For Arts And Creativity, including A Charlie Brown Christmas feat. The Jerry Granelli Trio, An East Coast Christmas with The Ennis Sisters, and The Sultan of Strings - Christmas Caravan.
Where: Banff Centre
When: Various dates
Cost: Ticket prices vary depending on the show
Country Christmas Dinner
Head to Lake Louise for a Christmas dinner that you'll never forget! Start with a horse-drawn sleigh ride to a cozy barn where you'll dance the night away with a live band.
Where: Brewster Barn
When: December 23, 26, 28 & 30, 2019
Spirit In The Mountain
Travel more than 100 feet underground for a Christmas concert unlike any other with Canmore Cave Tours. Join a guided tour through the cave into the grand gallery where one of several great acts will treat you to an evening of holiday music.
Where: Canmore Cave Tours
When: December 20 - 23, 2019
Cost: $149 per person including guide, equipment, and concert.
Christmas on Skis
Looking to hit the slopes for Christmas? A wide variety of events across all three mountains will have something for all snow lovers.
Don your best holiday costume and check out Santa Shreds For Free at Mt. Norquay. Or head to the Lake Louise Ski Resort for several events, including Skiing with Santa and a magical Christmas feast.
Banff Gallery Hop
Explore the best of Banff's arts and culture scene during the Gallery Hop Series.
Where: Multiple locations - see the complete listing
When: November 16 and December 7, 2019
Cost: Admission may apply at some venues
For more information about Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise, including a complete event listing, sample itineraries and more, please visit Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise.
