Plan Your Visit
Christmas in Banff & Lake Louise
With mountains blanketed in snow, chilly days, and Christmas lights that sparkling down Banff Avenue, there’s just something about the holidays in Banff that makes you want to curl up next to the fire with a hot chocolate. We know how special time is here with your loved ones, so we’ve taken the hassle out of planning and provided you with our top recommendations in Banff over the holidays!
Get inspired – visit banfflakelouise.com for all of your planning needs!
Where to Stay
Why deal with snowy roads and weekend traffic when you could turn your day at the Banff Christmas Market into a full-on mountain getaway?
For an unforgettable stay in Banff National Park, book with our exclusive partner, Banff Lodging Co.
Banff Lodging Co. has VIP hotel packages for every vibe – girls trip, couples escape, or the ultimate family holiday – and market goers score an exclusive 20% off standard room bookings just for staying the night.
With newly extended evening hours at the Banff Christmas Market, it’s all the more reason to enjoy another mulled wine, soak in a hot tub, and sleep in. Trust us – Christmas magic hits different when you’re wearing a fluffy robe and not worrying about highway traffic.
- Otter Hotel – Mountain Luxury
- Hidden Ridge Resort – Family-Friendly Condos
- Fox Hotel & Suites – Indoor Hot Pool
- Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa – Full Service Spa
For a full list of Banff hotels, click here.
Entertainment & Experiences
There is holiday magic waiting around every corner at the Banff Christmas Market! Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, keep an eye out for the mischievous Grinch, and capture a special keepsake with complimentary professional photos with Santa.
Enjoy live music as you wander through the Market, discover festive photo opportunities throughout the grounds, and warm up beside the campfire while roasting marshmallows.
Little ones can stop by the Letter-Writing Station in the Whoville KidZone to create their very own letter to Santa, then mail it straight to the North Pole in our special Santa mailbox.
Click here to see our full schedule of events. More information on workshops & experiences can be found here.
Food & Drinks
Come hungry and make a meal of your visit! Our food vendors will be serving a delicious selection of comforting seasonal favourites, from traditional raclette and sizzling bratwurst to loaded poutine, savoury meat pies and plenty more.
Warm up between festivities with a gourmet hot chocolate, a steaming mug of mulled wine or our new Feuerzangenbowle cocktail—a fiery German holiday tradition that’s as spectacular as it is delicious. With festive flavours, cozy drinks and something for every appetite, the Banff Christmas Market is the perfect excuse to gather, sip and savour the season.
Local Vendors
Discover more than 200 local and regional vendors throughout the four weekends of the Banff Christmas Market. With a changing lineup each weekend, there is always something new to browse, taste, and take home—so be sure to visit more than once!
For a full list of vendors, click here.
Keepsake Mug Program
Help us reduce waste while creating a lasting keepsake from your visit.
This year, all hot beverages at the Banff Christmas Market will be served in our collectible souvenir mugs. When you purchase a drink, a small refundable deposit will be applied. When you’re finished, keep the mug as a festive souvenir or return to a designated mug return location for a full refund.
It’s a simple way to support a more sustainable market while enjoying your favourite holiday drinks.
Check out our FAQ page to learn more.
Explore Banff
November & December are great times to visit Banff! Explore charming boutiques, relax in cozy cafés, visit art galleries, and soak in the scenic beauty that surrounds you.
Fun & Festive Winter Activities:
Where to Eat:
Savour a delicious meal at one of Banff National Park’s top-rated restaurants, where you can indulge in delightful cuisines while enjoying stunning mountain views.
For a full list of restaurants, click here.
Get Inspired
Top Christmas in Banff Experiences You Don't Want to Miss
Time to shop! Each guest will receive a First-Class Ticket to the Banff Christmas Market, including three-day access and a complimentary hot chocolate voucher to enjoy during their visit
Magical Ways to Enjoy the Delight of the Banff Christmas Market at Night
The Banff Christmas Market is one of the most enchanting winter experiences in the Canadian Rockies, and when the sun sets, it becomes even more magical. There’s so much to discover this winter.
The Ultimate Guide to a Girls’ Christmas Getaway in Banff
Banff is well known as a go-to destination for the best trips with your besties. With breathtaking scenery, a charming mountain town atmosphere, and endless options for shopping, dining, and fun, it has everything you need to make the most of any getaway with your girl gang.