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Banff Sunshine
Fri, 06 Nov 2020

6 Reasons Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise Makes Sense This Winter

With white mountains peaks and snow-kissed streets, festive holiday lights blending into twinkling night stars, and days brimming with once-in-a-lifetime memories - Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise is, in a word, magical.

We know many are itching to get out and explore the outdoors, and that many have concerns about travel in 2020. While the usual Christmas traditions may not be an option this year - whether it’s jet-setting to a warm sandy beach or celebrating with large gatherings of friends and family - there are still myriad ways to make memorable holiday experiences this year. And it starts with SkiBig3.

This winter, it makes sense to swap sand between your toes with snow between your (ski) tips for a truly white Christmas in the Canadian Rockies. Perhaps Banff National Park has always been on your bucket list, or maybe it’s been a few years since you’ve visited. Whether it’s your first or fifteenth visit, Banff and Lake Louise will always feel like home. Friendly locals, a warm and humble mountain town atmosphere, and three stunning ski resorts create opportunities abound to reconnect with nature, with loved ones, and with yourself.

Here’s why spending Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise makes sense this winter.

1. Banff is Alive With the Spirit of Christmas

Couple enjoying Christmas lights in Banff, Alberta. Enjoy the Christmas lights in Banff with your cohort. Photo by Devaan Ingraham.

Although Christmas festivities will look a little different this year, rest assured that the spirit of the season will remain strong in Banff and Lake Louise. From November 26th to January 3rd, visitors can take part in several socially distanced outdoor festivities, including the Bear Street Christmas Tree Walk, and a Christmas lights celebration.

2. There's (Still) Plenty to Ski and Do

Cross-country skiing on Lake Louise. Photo by Paul Zizka. Cross-country skiing on Lake Louise. Photo by Paul Zizka.

Banff National Park's world-renowned landscapes are still ideal for activities that allow you to enjoy the outdoors and connect to nature. Visitors of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can take part in the same adventures as in winters past. From dogsledding to snowshoeing, ice skating to sleigh riding, you'll find plenty to keep busy on your off days from skiing and snowboarding at the SkiBig3 resorts.

3. Swap Material Gifts With Magical Moments

Family looking at Christmas tree decorations at Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park. Photo by Kelly MacDonald.

This Christmas, it's more important than ever to embrace the true spirit of the season and celebrate what matters most. A Christmas ski vacation with SkiBig3 will gift your family or closest cohort with memories to last a lifetime, more valuable than any other present. From the wide-open ski hill slopes to the wintery streets and forest trails, magical moments are awaiting around every corner.

4. We're Welcoming Back Visitors - Safely

Couple enjoying the view of Banff townsite from the Banff gondola on Sulphur Mountain. Couple enjoying the view of Banff townsite from the Banff gondola on Sulphur Mountain. Photo by Chris Amat.

Banff National Park is welcoming visitors with the same warm Canadian hospitality we’re famed for. The SkiBig3 resorts and businesses throughout Banff and Lake Louise are leaders in implementing the highest health and safety protocols. Widespread Covid-19 safety measures are in place to ensure a safe stay for everyone.

The best thing you can do is to come prepared. Organizing your stay prior to arrival reduces the need to wait in ticket lines. Reserve your SkiBig3 Lift Tickets in advance and we'll make sure your tickets are waiting at your hotel upon arrival so you can head straight to the lift of your choice. SkiBig3 Lift Ticket holders have priority access to skiing & riding during their stay, so you know you can confidently hit the slopes each and every day during your ski vacation. Learn more about what to expect on your winter ski vacation during Covid-19.

5. Book With Ultimate Flexibility

Skiers at Banff Sunshine Village. Photo by Reuben Krabbe. Skiers at Banff Sunshine Village. Photo by Reuben Krabbe.

We understand that predictability is no longer a given with travel planning. In the spirit of keeping things flexible, SkiBig3 is committed to keeping you updated with ongoing health and safety information. Should you need to cancel or change your plans this winter our no-questions-asked cancellation policy allows for free changes and cancellations until three days prior to arrival.

6. Spread Out On the Slopes

Skiers at Banff Sunshine Village. Photo by John Price Skiers at Banff Sunshine Village. Photo by John Price

Skiing and snowboarding in Banff National Park have always been conducive to social distancing, with plenty of room to roam on the ski slopes. Ski etiquette and the Alpine Responsibility Code require everyone to give plenty of space to others while cruising down the runs. While most of your time will be spent on the mountain enjoying the fresh air, all SkiBig3 resorts have social distancing protocols in place for lift lines and indoor areas.

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While operations are bound to look a little different this winter, you can count on finding amazing ski terrain across 8,000 acres and 3 mountain resorts. SkiBig3 has always been known for its wide-open, uncrowded slopes and this year will be no different. Being active and outside is guaranteed to provide some respite during this challenging time. This holiday season could be the best time to experience all the outdoor adventures that make this place special. To book your winter ski vacation, call 1-844-754-2443 to speak with a reservation specialist. Or, go online to access to some exceptional Ski & Stay Package deals.

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