The SkiBig3 Holiday Guide to Banff and Lake Louise
Planning your winter getaway to Banff National Park? It's never too early to start, especially if you're considering a holiday ski vacation to Banff and Lake Louise. With tons of activities and events happening during the holiday periods, not only do the two mountain towns come to life, but the ski resorts have lots going on too. Here's a quick rundown of the holiday seasons in Banff and Lake Louise to help you plan your ski vacation to SkiBig3 during these special times of the year.
Christmas
Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise is a truly magical experience. As twinkling lights line the streets of Banff and Lake Louise, take in the holiday magic by sipping hot chocolates by a cracking fire and soak in the festive spirit at the holiday markets. It's the perfect place to make new holiday traditions with loved ones. The mountains come alive with holiday events, from skiing with Santa to uncovering the Christmas Spirit. Whether you're hitting the slopes at the three SkiBig3 resorts or relaxing in the winter scenery, Christmas in Banff and Lake Louise is like stepping into a fairy tale.
Ski with Santa at all 3 SkiBIg3 Resorts | Photo by Jill Tester
Christmas Events
A festive weekend of holiday activities and entertainment to kick off the quintessential Christmas season in downtown Banff.
The annual Banff Christmas Market captures all the tradition, heritage, and romance of European Holiday Markets with a Canadian Rocky Mountain twist.
Discover the wonder of Christmas in Banff National Park this holiday season with In Search of Christmas Spirit.
SnowDays
The annual SnowDays Festival in Banff and Lake Louise is a highlight of the year and one not to be missed. From January 17 to February 2, 2025, Lake Louise transforms into a dazzling display of ice sculptures as part of the Ice Magic Competition, while downtown Banff becomes a life-sized winter gallery of giant snow sculptures. Don't miss out on the spectacle event of Skijoring, where skiers and snowboards are pulled down Banff Avenue by horse, all while jumping and showing off their impressive tricks. For family fun, the SnowDays Play Zone offers a variety of activities that kids will love.
Skijoring down Banff Avenue during the SnowDays Festival | Photo by Robert Massey
SnowDays Festival Events
Step into a world of winter wonder on the iconic grounds of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for the return of Ice Magic in 2025.
Bike, climb, slide and play at the Play Zone, open Wednesdays to Sundays during SnowDays.
Talented artists from around the world converge to carve massive blocks of snow into intricate and imaginative creations during the SnowDays festival.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK)
MLK weekend isn’t a holiday in Canada, making it the perfect time to escape the crowds at U.S. resorts and hit the slopes in the Canadian Rockies on January 20, 2025. With three resorts to explore, it’s an ideal opportunity for a long weekend getaway, or why not make it an extended stay and turn it into a week-long vacation? Plus MLK weekend coincides with the SnowDays Festival, offering even more excitement during your stay!
Skiing at Banff Sunshine on a bluebird powder day| Photo by Jill Tester
Easter
Spring in the Canadian Rockies is ideal for a springtime adventure, with longer days, warmer weather, and historically, the snowiest month of the season. Easter in Banff and Lake Louise is a particularly special time to visit, offering a variety of family-friendly activities. From mountain-view brunches to Easter egg hunts on the slopes, there's something for everyone. You'll even spot the Easter Bunny carving down the mountains at each of the three resorts!
Ready to start planning your trip to Banff and Lake Louise
Planning a holiday visit to Banff and Lake Louise is like stepping into a winter wonderland, where you'll create memories to last a lifetime. From festive events to skiing alongside the Easter Bunny, there's plenty to experience at SkiBig3 in Banff National Park. Whether you're starting new traditions or escaping the crowds for a long weekend, take advantage of Ski & Stay Package deals. Start your booking online or call our friendly reservations team at +1 844-754-2443 to begin planning your ski vacation to Banff National Park.