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 Park Museum before heading to Cascade of Time Garden
When: November 24, 2021 - January 1, 2022
Time: 5 p.m. - 10:30 pm
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: Weekends November 20 - December 19, 2021 & Daily December 20 - 30, 2021
Cost: All activities are free with gondola admission. Kids travel free with each paying adult when you visit before 12 noon.
Country Christmas Dinner
The evening begins with a short sleigh ride transfer from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise over to our Dance Barn where a live country and western band will welcome you into the warm and cozy Dance Barn.
All decorated for the Christmas season, featuring our 16 foot tall horseshoe Christmas tree, the Dance Barn is a place for families to kick back and enjoy some western hospitality.
Where: Brewster Barn
When: December 23 & 28, 2021
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.
You and your family will follow clues to search for Santa’s Secret Banff Hideaway where you will enjoy a highly personalized visit with Santa. This meeting will be a meaningful, magical moment in time – an experience you won’t soon forget!
Cost: $375 per family
Where: Details will be emailed upon booking confirmation.
On this scavenger hunt, explore the streets of Banff and discover little-known secret destinations along with well-known favourites. Solve puzzles and riddles, submit photos and/or videos, and earn points for finishing specially crafted missions.
Cost: $55 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.
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.
