Things To Do in Banff and Lake Louise in December
Things look a little different for Christmas 2021 in Banff and Lake Louise! Many adjustments have been made due to COVID-19 to keep people safe. Please refer to our Travel Information page for more information.
Women's Alpine Ski World Cup and Super G - Nov. 30 - Dec. 5
Skiing in Banff and Lake Louise is in full swing! As is tradition, the first weekend in December brings some of the finest alpine racers to the slopes of the Lake Louise Ski Resort. Get a few laps in and then join thousands of spectators to watch the first Audi FIS Ski World Cup Women's Downhill and Super-G races of the season.
Embrace the First of Winter Adventure
The time has come to dust off those skis and snowshoes - winter is here! December ushers in the first of frozen lakes, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and more.
Check out 6 Winter Adventures To Try in Banff & Lake Louise for more inspiration!
Holiday Celebrations on Bear Street
The Bear Street Holiday Market, Hot Chocolate Trail, and the Banff Craft Beer Festival are all taking over Bear Street during December.
Explore a European-inspired Christmas market at the Bear Street Holiday Market. New vendors every weekend and daily hours for the week leading into Christmas, shopping on Bear Street has never been easier. Plus, you can always stop into one of the great storefronts as well.
The Banff Craft Beer Festival takes place from December 3-11 and is the only festival featuring exclusively Albertan brewers. Enjoy local brews and local eats all while exploring the brand new Bear Street.
Banff's Hot Chocolate Trail is an exploration of this classic holiday drink mixed with creativity and exploration of new flavours and classic styles. A number of restaurants are participating this year including Bear Street Tavern, Wild Flour, Three Bears Brewery and Restaurant, and Magpie & Stump.
Taste the Best of Alberta
Alberta beef meets craft spirits brewed with glacial water - December is the perfect month to embrace the hearty, comforting food of Banff and Lake Louise. Take your meal to the next level and check out 7 Scenic Restaurants in Banff and Lake Louise. Bon appétit!
Relax and unwind
Take a break from the holiday hustle and treat yourself to a spa day. Soak yourself in the historic Banff Upper Hot Springs or visit one of many great day spas in Banff and Lake Louise. Check out our guide to spas and hot springs in Banff National Park.
Enjoy a Mountaintop Christmas at Banff Gondola
Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain and visit Santa's Workshop, enjoy art and craft activities, or take a family Christmas photo. As the sun goes down and the stars come out, take a blanket and cozy up around the fire on the rooftop and enjoy an evening exploring the galaxies with a professional photographer on hand to help you get the perfect shot. All activities are free with Banff Gondola admission.
Discover a local Christmas tradition
From skating under the stars to unique Christmas feasts, this is the perfect year to start a new family tradition for you and your family. We interviewed five local families to get the inside scoop about how they spend their Christmas in Banff National Park. Check out Local’s Favourite Christmas Traditions.
