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.
In Banff and Lake Louise, the holidays bring a diverse array of outdoor experiences and festivities for all. Christmas is a little different this year in Banff and Lake Louise, but measures have been taken to ensure a safe and festive experience for all.
Here are all the must-visit holiday happenings in Banff National Park this season.
In Search of Christmas Spirit - A Live Christmas Story
This enchanting experience will help you find that unbeatable sense of Christmas spirit that we are all seeking in this year of uncertainty. Bundle up for a walk through the Cascade of Time Garden, where you’ll witness a live Christmas story told by the animals of Banff National Park.
The story is delivered by illuminated puppets, dazzling sculptures, and ingenious sound effects. It’s a tale of hope and unity that will strike a chord with everyone this Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise. Book your free tickets and get ready for a totally transformed walk through the park.
Where: Check-in and start at Banff Avenue Square before heading to Cascade of Time Garden
When: December 2020 - January 2021
Time: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Cost: Free
*Tickets and registration required
Mountaintop Christmas
Jump aboard the Banff Gondola and visit Santa's Workshop at the summit of Sulphur Mountain. Enjoy Christmas delights, pose for a photo with Santa, and explore the Elk Interpretive Centre.
Where: Banff Gondola
When: December 19 - 30, 2020
Cost: All activities are free with gondola admission. Kids travel free with each paying adult when you visit before 12 noon.
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, tuck into a Christmas feast, and then dance the night away with a live band.
Where: Brewster Barn
When: December 23, 26, 28 & 30, 2020
UNIQUE ADVENTURES TO GET YOU IN THE FESTIVE SPIRIT
Enjoy a magical time with your family with adventures that will have you feeling like a child again. Join in the search for Santa by following clues around Banff to locate his secret hideaway. Once you locate the jolly man, enjoy a personalized visit with Santa and your family. You can also set off on a Santa Scavenger Hunt through the streets of Banff. Solve puzzles and riddles, submit pictures, earn points, and check-in along the way.
When: Weekends November 28 – December 13 and every day, December 18 - 24
Time: 10 a.m. - 5:45 p.m.
Cost: $243.97 per family
Where: Details will be emailed upon booking confirmation.
When: November 21 – January 3
Time: 9 a.m. - 5.m.
Cost: $38.79 per family
Where: Details will be emailed upon booking confirmation.
Christmas on Skis
Looking to hit the slopes for Christmas? Gather your gear (don’t forget your face covering) and your nearest and dearest and experience the winter wonderland of Banff National Park’s ski resorts.
If you want to see the joyful man hitting the slopes, Banff Sunshine will host Santa on the Mountain on various weekends in December.
Before you go, book ahead and check for operational changes at the resorts this ski season.
For more information about Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise, please visit Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise.
