Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Banff: Events, Activities and More

Spending Christmas in Banff feels like stepping inside a real-life snow globe.

With snow-dusted peaks, twinkling fairy lights, cosy cafés serving steaming hot chocolate, and six full weeks of festive events, Banff is one of the most magical places to celebrate the holidays in Canada.

Christmas Things to do in Banff

Whether you want to chase the northern lights, wander Christmas markets, sip your way around the Hot Chocolate Trail, or simply embrace the winter wonderland vibes.

This guide covers everything happening in Banff at Christmas in 2025.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, if you decide to press on them and make a valid purchase I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you and for that, thank you!

Why visit Banff at Christmas?

By mid-November, Banff transforms into a winter wonderland.

Streets are lined with lights, hotels decorate their lobbies like Hallmark movie sets, and the mountains are blanketed in fresh powder.

Even if you’re not a skier/snowboarder there are dozens of festive experiences to enjoy.

What is the weather like in December?

The weather in Banff in December fluctuates between -5 and -14 degrees Celsius. This may sound cold, but due to Banff’s lack of wind, it is very manageable.

As someone who feels the cold, I was very nervous about Canada’s sub-zero temperatures, but with the right gear, you can easily walk in -30 for 10 minutes before your cheeks start to freeze.

The snowfall in December is roughly 40 to 50 inches. And as it’s the beginning of the season, each day will bring down a flurry, making the snow reports exciting to watch.
Christmas Events in Banff 2025

Do I need a car to explore Banff in December?

Honestly, unless you are planning to drive to Jasper National Park and the less popular areas surrounding Banff, you do not need a car.

The public buses will run to Canmore and Johnston Canyon, and the free shuttle buses will take you up Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village and Lake Louise.

If you are planning to rent a car, you will have to drive with snow chains on. Most rental companies will provide them. 

What to Pack for Christmas in Banff

I recommend investing in Merino wool, as it is breathable, has good insulation, and has anti odour properties. This clever biodegradable and renewable natural fibre can absorb 30% of its weight in moisture and still have the capability to keep you dry and insulated. 

Merino wool is an absolute must if you are travelling to sub zero countries. In Banff, Canada, I have been out in -38 degree celsius temperatures, and I am not exaggerating when I say that wearing several layers of this material kept me warm. 

A brand I adore is Mons Royale. I am kitted head to toe in their stuff as it is all merino wool. They pride themselves on being ethical, sustainable, and natural. They also have certified ZQ Merino. 

I also recommend the brand Swany for gloves. Let me tell you, when you put your hand inside one of those mittens, it is like heaven! I prefer mittens, over gloves as they are known to keep your hands warmer. 

Another company to consider is Helly Hansen; they supply all the snow suits to Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise, making them a top contender in the warmth industry. I also have a ski jacket from them. 

Invest in some good quality socks. I use merino socks on the mountain and alpaca wool socks from Soul Destiny around town. 

Santa Claus Celebration of Lights (Cancelled for 2025)

Unfortunately, this event is cancelled for 2025.

The first event in Banff during the Christmas period is Santa Claus’s celebration of lights. 

This is an amazing kick-off to the winter season. With local musicians coming to play on stage throughout the day and Santa making a special appearance with his elves at 4.30pm on the Saturday. 

The Cascade main stage, where the performers will be from 12pm to 7pm on Saturday, is located on Banff Avenue where the road crosses with Wolf Street (the 200 block of Banff Ave). 

The road will be shut for the event, allowing pop-up tents with different activities to be spread down the road. 

Adjacent to Banff Avenue is Bear Street, which will also be putting on entertainment. This will be in the form of cosy live music, magic shows, and storytelling. Bear Street entertainment will run from 12pm to 4.30pm. 

Sunday events will only be running on Bear Street and between 9am and 2pm. Be ready to have storytelling with Santa and a festive pooch parade. 

The Hot Chocolate Trail

Probably my favourite winter event of all time, The Banff Hot Chocolate Trail! 

Every year the town of Banff puts on a hot chocolate trail with more than 30 restaurants participating. 

This chocolatey treasure map is the perfect warm-up treat after a day of skiing or exploring Banff National Park.

The Banff Hot Chocolate Trail runs from 13th November 2025 to 8th February 2026.

Prices vary from place to place, but expect to pay between $8 and $18. 

In 2023, I tried 22 out of 25 participating restaurants – yes, I was on a sugar high for weeks.

Back then the event was only 6 weeks, which meant I had 3 to 4 hot chocolates a week!

These 5 hot chocolates ranked the best.

If you are short on time, these are the places you need to try first.  

The Elk and Oarsman. 

This is one of my favourite places in town because they have the best happy hours. 

In 2023 they did the best cup of cheer, which was an apricot liqueur, spiced rum, walnut bitters hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for only $8. 

In 2024 they are offering a Captain Morgan Spiced rum, hot chocolate, vanilla butter syrup, cream, and caramel crumb for $9.

2025 HOT CHOCOLATE IS YET TO BE ANNOUNCED.

St. James Gate

Another of my favourite places in town. St. James Gate, this Irish pub, is a cosy country-style pub with good food and live music. 

The St James Gate hot chocolate was one of my favourites. It tasted like Terry’s Chocolate Orange, which, in my opinion, is one of the best hot chocolate flavours out there. 

In 2023 they offered a hot chocolate infused with the bright and zesty flavours of Cointreau and triple sec liqueurs for $8. 

In 2024 they are offering vanilla vodka, Chambord liqueur hot chocolate, topped with a raspberry and whipped cream for $9.50.

Sadly, St James Gate will not be doing a hot chocolate in 2025, as they missed the cut-off date.

The Balkan 

In 2023 this Greek restaurant called the Balkan offered Kahlua, Park vanilla vodka, Malibu coconut rum, hot chocolate, topped with cream for $14. 

As Malibu is my favourite alcohol, this hot chocolate was always going to be in my top 5. 

In 2024 they are offering Café Balkan Mix, orange oil drops, bitters coffee topped with an orange whipped cream and a pinch of salt. (Decaf Available) for $14.

In 2025 they are offering Bergamotto Fantastico, rose infused whipped cream, rose petals 1oz – $12. Or the non alcoholic version Jolene’s Creamy Earl Grey, rose infused whipped cream, rose petals – $6

Larkspur Lounge 

The Larkspur Lounge is part of the beautiful Rimrock Hotel. This hotel takes Christmas very seriously with thoughtful Christmas decor throughout the lobbies, restaurants, and rooms. 

In 2023 they offered a Baileys and Disaronno hot chocolate, crowned with a velvety whip and an enchanting dusting of cocoa for $15. 

In 2024 they are offering Oreo Hot Chocolate Ganache with house-made ganache hot chocolate with a crushed Oreo rim topped with whipped cream, chocolate flakes, and Oreo chunks for $9. 

Or a spiced orange hot chocolate: French-style, zesty orange-flavoured hot chocolate infused with a blend of spices, cognac, and triple sec. Made with your choice of milk and garnished with whipped cream, cinnamon, and chocolate chip biscotti for $15.

2025 HOT CHOCOLATE IS YET TO BE ANNOUNCED.

La Terrazza 

In 2023 I had the Tiramisu Forte Hot Chocolate: decadent tiramisu hot chocolate, Callebaut dark chocolate, Illy espresso, steamed milk, Borsci San Marzano Liqueur, and Frangelico. Topped with Tia Maria spiked mascarpone cream and a chocolate glazed ladyfinger for $14

The Tiramisu Forte was delivered in a wine glass with a chocolate ladyfinger perched on top, making the presentation top-notch. 

The biscuit was the perfect dipping utensil for the mascarpone cream. 

I have to say this cream is the best one I have tasted during this challenge. 

In 2024 they are offering the same hot chocolate. 

If you are short on time in Banff but want to join in on the trail, then I recommend you try these restaurants first.

2025 HOT CHOCOLATE IS YET TO BE ANNOUNCED.

Banff Christmas Markets 

Spending Christmas in Banff is one of those pinch-me life moments. Banff National Park at Christmas is a winter wonderland and a real-life Hallmark movie town. 

The Banff Christmas Markets are one of the only paid events put on by the town. 

The Christmas markets are held a short walk from downtown Banff.

Banff Christmas Market Location: 327 Railway Ave – Banff Train Station

Held over 4 weekends starting in the middle of November and going until the beginning of December. 

The 2025 Banff Christmas Market dates are: 

• Thursday 20th November – Twinkle night.
• 21st to 23rd November
• 28th to 30th November 
• 5th December to 7th December 
• 12th to 14th December 

There are over 150 vendors selling everything from handmade trinkets to socks. Each day they put on live music with a cosy outdoor fireplace and festive treats to get you into the spirit of Christmas. 

You can even visit Santa’s house and workshop. 

Ticket prices are: 

• Twinkle Night: $7.50
• Single Admission Adult (11-64): $15
• Weekend pass: $36
• Single Admission Senior (65+): $12
• Child (3-10): $5
• Children 2 & under: FREE
• Plus Tax

Tickets can be booked here.

In Search of Christmas Spirit Light Installations

Another fun and festive activity to do in Banff is the In Search of Christmas walk. 

In Search of the Spirit of Christmas is a story told by the wildlife of Banff and their appreciation for the national park. The story is told by illuminated sculptures, storyboards, and sound effects.

The event is free, but you are required to book a ticket and a time to help prevent overcrowding. 

Tickets can be booked here.

In Search of Christmas spirit is on between the 13th November and 31st December 2025.

You can find the installations in the Cascade Gardens. The walk is easy, but since this event takes place in winter, you might want to wear crampons as the pathways can become slippery.

The walk takes between 30 minutes to an hour depending on how many picture stops you take. 

When you arrive and sign in, be sure to take a lantern to make it feel even more magical.

The CP Holiday Train (2025 Calgary only)

The CP Holiday Train took a break in Christmas 2023, so I was unable to see it. And in 2025, unfortunately, the CP Holiday Train will not be stopping in Banff or Canmore; the nearest stop will be Calgary.

The train’s journey begins on 19th November and runs through to 21st December 2025. The first stop will be Quebec, and the train will end in Alberta. 

The CP Holiday Train will be in Calgary 12th December 2025 7pm to 7.30pm.

Calgary location: Anderson C-Train Station.

The 2025 act will be the Barenaked Ladies.

This event is free, but they encourage you to bring a money or food donation. 

Mountaintop Christmas with Banff Gondola

One of Banff’s main attractions is the Banff Gondola. 

Built in 1958, this gondola showcases the beauty of Banff National Park and the Rocky Mountains. 

The Banff Gondola takes you up Sulphur Mountain and gives you panoramic views of the six mountain ranges:

Cascade Mountain, Mount Rundle, Tunnel Mountain, Mount Norquay, Sundance Range, and Fairholme Range. 

The Banff Gondola ride takes 8 minutes, or alternatively you can hike up Sulphur Mountain. 

At the top there is a walkway giving you incredible views, a restaurant, a cafe, an interactive centre, and a gift shop. 

During the Christmas period, the Banff Gondola puts on a mountaintop Christmas with Santa visiting throughout December and festive activities to get you in the spirit. 

Activities at a Mountaintop Christmas include: 

• Photos with Santa
• Arts and crafts 
• Cookie decorating
• Feature holiday film 
• Marshmallow roasting
• Holiday buffet at Northern Lights alpine kitchen 
• Holiday dinner at Sky Bistro 

This event starts on 22nd November and runs Saturdays and Sundays until 22nd December, when the event will run daily until 31st December 2025.

This event is available with a regular ticket.

Nightrise with Banff Gondola 

Another great event put on by the Banff Gondola is Nightrise.

Experience the mountain in a different way with interactive light displays, vibrant lighting, music, storytelling, multimedia effects, video projections, and more. 

This nighttime experience runs from 22nd November 2025 through to the 29th March 2026. 

Your general admission ticket includes this event, so you don’t need to book separate tickets.

Head up to the top of Sulphur Mountain for sunset to enjoy beautiful views, and as the sun goes down, see the magic of Nightrise come alive.

Christmas Eve and New Years Eve Torchlight Parade at Banff Sunshine Village. 

Every year specially trained torch bearers ride the chairlifts to the top of the Sunshine Village runs and come down creating a light show snaking down the mountain.

The event is free but transportation is not provided. You will need to rent a car or be staying at the Sunshine Village mountain lodge. 

The light show starts at 7pm.

Canmore Festival of Trees 

If you want to explore the surrounding areas, then I suggest you check out Banff’s neighbour Canmore. 

Just a half an hour bus ride or a 20-minute car journey is the larger town of Canmore. 

Canmore, like Banff, is surrounded by the stunning mountains, the most known being the Three Sisters, Grotto Mountain, Mount Rundle, and Ha Ling Peak. 

For the past 16 years, Canmore has been putting on an annual festival of trees.

Each year on 28th November at The Malcolm Hotel, a ceremony is held crowning the best-decorated tree that season. 

All the decorated trees remain on display until 31st December 2025.

You can walk through this festive forest for free and decide whether you agree with the judges decision. The Malcolm Hotel also puts on family-friendly activities during this period. 

Skiing and Snowboarding with Santa 

If you want the full festive experience of Christmas in Banff, then you need to head up the mountain to ski or snowboard with Santa. 

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be skiing around Banff Sunshine Village on the the weekends of 13th and 14th December and 20th and 21st December 2025.

Santa will also be skiing at Lake Louise Resort with his elves and Griff the grizzly on the 23rd, 24th, and 25th December 2025. He will also make an appearance in the Lodge of Ten Peaks to warm up with a hot coco. 

I was lucky enough to snowboard down with Santa on the strawberry run at Sunshine Village.

Country Christmas Dinner 

If you love country music and Christmas, why not tie them together with a Country Christmas Dinner at Lake Louise?  

The night starts with a short but magical sleigh ride from Lake Louise Chateaux to the Dance Barn, where the festivities really begin. The barn is decorated top to toe with Christmas decorations, including a 16-foot horseshoe Christmas tree as the showstopper.

You’ll enjoy a buffet, live music, and a chance to line dance the night away.

Tickets for the event are $160 each plus GST. 

This Christmas Country Dinner is held on the 19th, 23rd, 26th, and 29th of December.

Tickets are available here.

A Christmas Carol at the Castle 

The Banff Springs Fairmont Hotel is a castle amongst the mountains. This luxurious hotel hosts many magical events around Christmas time. 

The Carter-Ryan Productions take on a timeless Christmas classic to perform at The Banff Springs Fairmont. 

A Christmas Carol shows the life of Scrooge and a night that changes his life forever; we all know the one! A Muppets Christmas Carol was a household favourite!

This tale is brought to you in puppet form with singing and soundscape. 

The Carter-Ryan productions also brought us In Search of the Spirit of Christmas and the Nature Art Trail which are both very popular amongst locals and tourists. 

The Christmas Carol play is on from 5th December to 28th December with showtimes at 2pm and 7.30pm. 

Tickets start from $29 plus GST. Non hotel guests can book their tickets here.

Christmas Dining at the Castle 

Christmas in the castle in Banff is a magical experience with delicious food, festive cocktail choices, beautifully decorated hallways to explore, and entertainment for all ages. 

In the theme of Christmas, the Banff Springs hotel put on a festive afternoon tea with seasonal recipes and cakes decorated like presents and reindeers. 

They offer a full range of different teas, or if you prefer, they have prosecco options too, along with scones, mini sandwiches, and desserts. 

I love high tea! My mum and I would go once a year to celebrate something.

The Banff Springs also has a pop-up bar called the Thirsty Reindeer that features a range of fun cocktails to get you into the Christmas spirit. 

They also put on a festive brunch around the holidays and a Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas brunch and Christmas dinner to help bring the family together.

Visit the Christmas Store

The Spirit of Christmas store in Banff is open all year round. Hundreds of tourists flock in each season to get a bit of Christmas cheer. The store has 2 floors with thousands of decorations. 

The store is sliced into sections depending on the decoration theme. They have everything from sports to bears to traditional baubles.

Banff Christmas store hours

• Monday 10am – 7pm
• Tuesday 10am – 7pm
• Wednesday 10am – 9pm
• Thursday 10am – 9pm
• Friday 10am – 9pm
• Saturday 10am – 9pm
• Sunday 10am – 7pm

I loved visiting The Spirit of Christmas store; I would often go wandering around there on my lunch break as they change stock so quickly. 

I got a couple of lovely bear ornaments from there that hang on my parents Christmas tree.

Christmas lights in Banff

Banff is a winter wonderland with snow-capped mountains and fairy lights on every corner. The locals also like to decorate their houses with Christmas decorations to help passersby get into the Christmas spirit. 

If you are visiting Banff during the Christmas season, I highly encourage you to take a late-night stroll and look at all the pretty decorations.

Certain homes like to go over the top, and I LOVE IT!!

See the Northern Lights. 

One of the many wonders of the world are the dancing lights of the night, the Aurora Borealis. And contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to go to Europe to see them. With fresh mountain air and little light pollution, you can see the Northern Lights in Banff National Park.

The Northern Lights can be seen the strongest during the winter months, which gives you a higher chance of seeing them at Christmas time. 

The Aurora Borealis can be seen all year round from Banff, but to see the colours at their most vibrant, you want to visit in the winter months between October and April. This is when the sky is at its darkest.

For all the tips and tricks for seeing the northern lights in Banff and catching them on camera, visit the Northern Lights blog post here. 

Other winter activities to do on your Christmas trip to Banff

Skiing/Snowboarding

Arguably, the main draw to this Rocky Mountain town is to ski the big 3: Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise.

All three have great terrain for beginner and advance levels.

My favourite mountain is Sunshine as I love the different variety of runs, the two distinct mountain levels, the length of the trails and the pub trappers!

Ice Skating 

Christmas in Banff wouldn’t be complete without a trip ice skating on a frozen river. 

A lot of the ice skating rinks are free, as they are just local lakes frozen over.

Lake Louise, Canmore town pond, and the Banff Recreation Grounds outside rink are the most maintained ice rinks you can visit. 

If you don’t have your own ice skates, you will need to hire them from one of these shops:

• Banff Adventures 
• Snowtips Backtraxx
• Ultimate sports 

Skates cost around $18 and can be used all day.

The best and most scenic places to go ice skating are: 

• Lake Louise (the most popular)
• Vermillion Lakes 
• Lake Minnewanka 
• Johnson Lake 
• Two Jacks Lake 
• Peyto Lake 

If you choose to go on one of the non-maintained lakes like Vermillion, you need to make sure it is safe to do so. 

You can check the ice depth yourself with an ice screw if you are a regular skater and know how to keep yourself safe on the ice. 

Word of Mouth and social media channels are also a great way to see where locals are going and where the ice is the thickest.

If you are unsure, I suggest going to Lake Louise Ice Rink, as it has a large skating area, is beautiful, and is maintained.

Snowshoeing in Banff 

Snowshoeing has been around for centuries, as it is an easier way to trek over snow. It is less tiring and faster to get over the winter landscape. 

This fun winter activity gets you wandering off the beaten track in a safe and controlled environment. There are lots of different routes to choose from, but I suggest going on a guided snowshoeing tour if you are unfamiliar with avalanche safety.

I highly recommend the Sunshine Meadows Top of the World tour. This beautiful route has you hiking above the clouds in Sunshine Village with fresh powder on the ground and mountains all around you. 

You will be blown away by its beauty.

Visit Johnston Canyon 

If you want to be transported to a winter wonderland deep into the forest, then you need to check out Johnston Canyon. Located 30 minutes outside of Banff town along the Bow Valley Parkway is a stunning walking trail that will take you to a giant frozen waterfall. 

• Distance: To lower falls 2.4km (1.5 miles) to upper falls 5km (3 miles) return
• Duration: 1-2 hours (with short legs and plenty of photo stops)
• Difficulty: Easy (depending on fitness level) 
• Elevation: 98ft / 394ft
• Johnston Canyon hike rating: 4.6/5

If you have rented a car, then Johnston Canyon is available to access during daylight times.

If you are restricted to public transport, then you will need to visit on a weekend, as that is the only time the buses run in winter. 

 To avoid crowds, I suggest planning your trip early in the morning or later in the evening before sunset. 

The trail is easy to follow and well signposted. A large majority of the hike is on suspended catwalks, giving you incredible views of the frozen river as you walk through the canyon. 

Dog Sledding 

Dog sledding is a unique way to see Banff National Park. Not only do you get to meet a dozen gorgeous fluffy doggos, you also get to experience the winter in a fun, fast, and exhilarating way. 

You and your energetic, fluffy guides will go through breathtaking scenery of snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and towering mountains. 

You will be accompanied by an experienced musher who will be controlling the sled and who will have years of local area knowledge

Snowtubing 

The BEST and only place to snow tube, in my opinion, is Mount Norquay! 

Mount Norquay houses the longest tubing lanes in the whole of Alberta. 

Although Mount Norquay is the smallest of the 3 ski resorts, it is steep, which makes it excellent for snow tubing. 

Snowtubing can be done as a single or with friends. You will either have one rubber ring or four strapped together. You can pick your experience based on how fast you want to go. The Mount Norquay staff can help choose your run based on your preferences.

For more fun winter activities check out this article:

• For more fun winter activities check out this article:
• 23 Unique Winter Activities in Banff for Non-Skiers (2025 Guide)

Where to stay at Christmas time in Banff

Samesun Hostel

For a fun and social hostel experience, you are going to want to book Samesun.

The hostel features friendly staff, clean rooms, and the Beaver bar offers numerous group activities to help you connect with your fellow roommates.

And if that isn’t enough, there is also free breakfast!

The Moose Hotel

The Moose hotel has the Rocky Mountain charm.

Featuring two rooftop hot tubs over looking Mount Norquay, an indoor pool, a spa, and a sauna it is the perfect hotel to unwind after a day of exploring.

The Moose is also centrally located and close to the ski bus stop.

Final Thoughts

Christmas in Banff is an unforgettable experience. With several festive events, a real-life winter wonderland, and plenty of fun winter activities, it is the perfect destination for a Christmas holiday. 

Whether you’re seeking adventure on the slopes, cosying up by a fire with a hot chocolate, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, Banff has something to offer everyone.

As always, happy exploring!