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Giant Snow Sculptures on Bear Street during SnowDays Festival.
SnowDays Festival

Snow Sculptures

Experience the artistry firsthand as global carvers bring this year's snow sculptures to life. The carving process is truly captivating, with talented teams skillfully wielding chisels and saws to transform massive snowy blocks into intricate sculptures. Each snow sculpture tells a unique story and the transition from snowy canvas to work of art is a sight to see.

Vote for the 2025 People's Choice Award using the QR codes available at each sculptures.

Grab a hot drink, bundle up and follow the trail of snow sculptures throughout downtown Banff from Bear Street to Central Park. And the excitement doesn’t stop there, explore the Bear Street Hub and SnowDays Play Zone in Central Park for even more activities, featuring fat biking, games, snow sculptures, events and entertainment that will keep the fun rolling.

Event Info More SnowDays Events

Event Overview

When
Jan. 17 - Feb. 2, 2025
Time
Daily and illuminated in the evening
Location
Multiple Locations
Cost
Free Event

Snow Carving Schedule

DateTimeLocationActivity
January 14-16, 20259am - 5pmMason HallLive Snow Carving
January 17-20, 20259am - 6pmCentral ParkLive Snow Carving
January 20, 202510am - 12pmCentral ParkBanff Elementary School Carving
January 21-23, 20259am - 6pmBear StreetLive Snow Carving
January 24 - February 2, 2025AnytimeAll LocationsCompleted Gallery Viewing - Illuminated in the evenings

2025 Snow Sculptures Theme

Soul of Banff & Lake Louise - Hidden Treasures: Discover the hidden treasures of Banff and Lake Louise as they come to life through magnificent snow sculptures. This season, the sculptures go beyond the obvious, showcasing the park's often-overlooked wonders - whether it’s elusive wildlife like the Pika collecting vegetation to eat during the winter, or historic figures that share rich stories of the area. With inspiration drawn from the magnificent mountain landscapes, these creations celebrate

Snow Sculpture Locations & Descriptions

Snow Sculpture Map

Located at the Mason Hall

  • Tucked In: A doe and her fawn are nestled amongst the trees. The piece gives a feeling of calm and serenity, as you imagine the animals resting, camouflaged in nature. Deer like to be in small groups, in drier areas. In the winter, when not relaxing, they forage for evergreen twigs, saplings, and shrubs. Created by David Ducharme & Susanne Ruseler.

Located in Central Park

  • Hidden Hearts: This snow sculpture depicts two ravens facing each other, their heads forming the shape of a heart in the space between them, only from a precise focal point. Inspired by the common yet beautiful ravens of Banff, it symbolizes the hidden beauty in everyday life - revealed only to those who take time to look closely and see beyond the ordinary. Created by David Ducharme & Susanne Ruseler.
  • What Chord Was That?: This whimsical piece captures a playful bear mid-performance, holding an abandoned snowshoe as if it was a guitar. This sculpture invites you to imagine the melodies of the mountains in the most unexpected moments. Created by Peter Vogelaar & Dmitrii Klimenko.
  • Lawrence Grassi: A Master Trail Maker: This sculpture honors Lawrence Grassi, the legendary trail builder whose artistry and dedication shaped some of the most iconic trails in the Canadian Rockies. Grassi's work inspires hikers to pause and appreciate both the journey and the landscape. Created by Brian McArthur & Dawn Detarando.

Located on Bear Street

  • Small Gems: This carving of a Pika, carrying grass for it’s home, gives the viewer a glimpse at those small creatures who’s gentle nature reflect a balance of resilience, and quiet strength. Hidden amongst the rocks in some of the highest parts of the Canadian Rockies. Created by David Ducharme & Susanne Ruseler.
  • Walking With Mycelium: This sculpture celebrates Banff’s hiking trails, featuring classic boots walking alongside delicate mushrooms. It highlights the forest’s hidden mycelium networks that sustain its beauty, reminding visitors to stay on paths and protect sensitive ecosystems; whether you can see them or not. Created by Brian McArthur & Dawn Detarando.
  • Searching for Wonder: This sculpture invites viewers to pause and find joy in nature’s intricate details. A curious child holding a magnifying glass, peering closely at a snowflake. Capturing a moment of pure fascination, the piece highlights the beauty of discovery and the “awe” around us. Created by Peter Vogelaar & Dmitrii Klimenko.

Please note: In the event of extreme weather conditions, Snow Sculptures may be modified or cancelled.

A horse pulls a trick skier over a snow jump in a Skijoring event on Banff Ave in Banff, Canada.A horse pulls a trick skier over a snow jump in a Skijoring event on Banff Ave in Banff, Canada.A horse pulls a trick skier over a snow jump in a Skijoring event on Banff Ave in Banff, Canada.

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