10 Must-Visit Events in Banff and Lake Louise in 2024

From stunning ice sculptures to the start of natural wonders, each month in Banff National Park plays hosts to incredible events.

Get out your calendar and block off some time to enjoy these great events in the mountains with friends.

1. Discover the SnowDays Festival

SnowDays promises to be bigger and better this year with the return of the international ice sculpting competition Ice Magic. Watch as artists from around the world turn blocks of ice into magnificent sculptures before your eyes on the shores of Lake Louise.

In the Banff townsite, watch larger-than-life snow sculptures be built before your eyes and watch horses and skiers pull stunts on Banff Avenue at Skijoring. It's a celebration of all things winter that you won't want to miss out on.

Check out 6 Reasons to Visit Banff SnowDays for all the details.

When: January 19 - February 4, 2024

Where: Banff townsite and Lake Louise lakeshore

2. Experience Nightrise at the Banff Gondola

An after-dark multimedia experience on top of Sulphur Mountain, Nightrise was developed alongside the Stoney Nakoda Nation. Experience the sounds, lighting, video projections, and other immersive elements that turn the familiar peaks into something new. Enjoy the sunset, dine atop the mountain and watch as the summit is transformed at Nightrise.

When: November, 2023 - March, 2024 & November, 2024 - March, 2025

Where: Banff Gondola

3. Made with Love - Banff Food and Cocktail Festival

Get excited for the 2nd annual Banff Food and Cocktail Festival - Made with Love this April! Showcasing the vibrant local food and cocktail scene, the festival features curated events and special cocktail menus available in all participating restaurants.

When: April 19 - May 4, 2024

4. Run The Banff Marathon

The Banff Marathon is one of the planet’s most incredible and beautiful running experiences. This incredible event winds through some of the most iconic landscapes in Banff National Park. Register now to lock in your spot to run through the mountains today. If you're looking for extra inspiration, check out our destination guide to the Banff Marathon.

When: June 16, 2024

5. It’s Canada Day!

Celebrate Canada Day (July 1) in the nation’s most iconic national park. There's things to do all throughout the Banff townsite, including along Banff Ave - where you can see iconic views of Cascade Mountain while enjoying live music, a bike parade, and patios.

When: July 1

6. Explore the Art in Nature Trail

Discover the enchantment of Banff's outdoor art exhibition, where creativity seamlessly merges with the beauty of nature. Step outside a traditional gallery and immerse yourself in the Art in Nature Trail along the Bow River Trail in Banff. This is the perfect thing to do in summer in Banff National Park.

Starting at the renowned Banff Park Museum, embark on a self-guided tour that will lead you along the picturesque Bow River Trail, guiding you across the pedestrian bridge towards the captivating Bow Falls and finally returning you to Central Park via the newly constructed Nancy Pauw Bridge.

Prepare to be captivated as you encounter over 65 curated art pieces thoughtfully crafted by talented Bow Valley artists using a diverse range of mediums.

From July 1 to September 30, 2024, seize the opportunity to witness the magic of art within the embrace of nature along the Bow River Trail. Once you are finished the trail, make sure to stop in at one of Banff's many fabulous art galleries.

7. Banff Pride

In early October, the charming Banff townsite transforms into a hub of vibrant celebrations. Live music, dazzling drag shows, a bustling Pride Market, and an enlightening Speaker Series are lined up, along with loads of fun indoor and outdoor activities.

In 2022, Gay Travel recognized Banff as one of the world's top destinations for LGBTQ2S+ travel. What sets Banff apart is its core—the people, the establishments, and the surroundings all create a warm and inviting town where a sense of belonging flourishes.

This recognition isn't just a nod; it's a heartfelt acknowledgment of Banff's dedication to providing a space where visitors can wholeheartedly be themselves.

8. Discover the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival

The Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival started in 1976 when local climbers and skiers were looking for something to celebrate between seasons. Since then, it has grown into one of the biggest mountain film festivals in the world. Join filmmakers, artists, authors, athletes, and enthusiastic fans for the nine-day celebration of adventure at Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival.

When: October 26 - November 3

9. Taste for Adventure

Banff and Lake Louise are brimming with ways to pair dinner and adventure this November. Whether your idea of the perfect Fall activity is reaching the summit of a mountain or relaxing in a natural hot spring, all are best enjoyed by indulging your taste buds with a comforting local meal at day’s end.

From October 24 to November 7, Taste for Adventure is back at participating restaurants in Banff National Park. This unique foodie event elevates and celebrates the cuisine of your favourite local restaurants in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. From classic restaurants that have become trusted culinary staples over the years to trendy locales newer to the Bow Valley dining scene - all will be serving up mouthwatering and unique dishes in Canada’s first national park.

Get a taste for our vibrant food scene here in Banff and Lake Louise - where world-class dining meets world-class adventure.

When: October 24 - November 7, 2024

10. The Start of Christmas in Banff National Park

In Banff and Lake Louise, the holidays bring a diverse array of shows, events and gatherings for all. The festive season kicks off with the Santa Claus Celebration of Lights, In Search of Christmas Spirit and the Banff Christmas Market in mid-November, and a variety of events run straight through to New Year’s.

When: November - December