4 Places to Meet with Santa in the Mountains
- Published
- Nov 2, 2023|
- Last Updated
- Oct 4, 2024|
- Events & Festivals, Family Travel
Christmastime in Banff National Park is nothing short of magical. Given how everywhere you look looks like it was taken right out of a Christmas movie, it's only right that Santa is around Banff quite a bit!
It’s no surprise that he finds himself at home amongst the peaks and valleys of Banff National Park. Holiday spirit seeps into every experience here, from the town’s festive streets all the way up to the tips of the mountain tops.
Take a gondola ride to find him on a mountain summit, towering high above the Banff townsite. Find him dancing down Banff Ave with his elves. Or visit him in a castle.
These unique and breathtaking Rockies landscapes are as white as the North Pole, serving as the perfect backdrop for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Santa and your loved ones.
He makes several appearances here during the holiday season, and he’s around just about every corner. Here are a few spots you can catch him throughout the Christmas winter wonderland of Banff National Park.
1. Santa Claus Celebration of Lights
Date: November 16 and 17, 2024
Time: Saturday 16 - 12 pm - 7 pm and Sunday 17 - 9 am - 2 pm
An exuberant celebration marks the start of the classic Christmas season in downtown Banff - the Santa Claus Celebration of Lights.
A weekend filled with holiday activities and entertainment. Experience the talents of local and Albertan artists on the central stage amidst charming street performers, the enchanting "Santa's Workshop," and an array of magical activities designed for the enjoyment of you and your entire family.
As daylight fades, come together near the stage to witness a spectacular sight: Santa and Mrs. Claus guiding their merry band of dancing elves and performers down Banff Ave.
After the night of revelry, ease into Sunday with storytime with Santa, and attend, or take part in the Doggy Parade!
2. Banff Christmas Market
Dates: November 14-17, 22-24, 29-December 1 & 6-8, 2024
The Banff Christmas Market is so much fun even Santa himself wants to join the celebration. Santa will be at The Banff Train Station to meet with the whole family.
Get your picture with Santa, and then enjoy shopping and kid’s activities like Christmas story time, craft time, and the tree lighting ceremony.
3. Christmas at the Banff Gondola
This winter, Santa and his elves have transformed Sulphur Mountain’s summit into his very own Christmas workshop.
Catch them in action with a ride up the Banff Gondola – kids ride free before noon! Top off your visit by decorating cookies in Santa’s Bakeshop, making special gifts, and, of course – taking in the snowy mountain views that make Santa feel right at home.
4. Christmas at the Castle
Banff's Castle in the Rockies is the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel - an iconic spot to celebrate Christmas and the festive season with their Christmas at the Castle celebration.
There are a number of ways to meet Santa at the Springs - including private photo ops in the beautiful decorations, a goodnight visit to your room or a special meal in the Santa Dining Suite. You could even decorate crafts with Mrs. Claus or have a special bedtime story read by her as well.
Book your experiences directly with the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Some activities are available only for guests, but there are many options for those staying elsewhere
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