9 UNFORGETTABLE Things to Do in Banff at Christmas in 2025
There is something truly magical about Banff during Christmas. The snow covered peaks, twinkling lights, and cozy mountain town vibe make it feel like you stepped straight into a holiday movie. If you are planning a winter getaway, here are nine awesome things to do in Banff at Christmas along with a few places to eat and stay to make your trip unforgettable.
1. Walk Through the Banff Christmas Market
The Banff Christmas Market is packed with local vendors, handmade gifts, warm drinks, and festive music. It is the perfect place to pick up unique holiday souvenirs while enjoying a Christmas atmosphere. Go in the evening if you want the full magic of lights and hot chocolate. Truly like something out of a Hallmark movie.
2. Visit Lake Louise for a Winter Wonderland Experience
Lake Louise is breathtaking any time of year but Christmas turns it into a snowy paradise. You can skate on the frozen lake, sip warm drinks at the Fairmont Chateau, or simply enjoy the mountain views. It is one of the most iconic winter experiences in the area.
Have lunch or breakfast in the Fairmont overlooking the lake with the mountains in the background. It’s absolutely incredible.
3. Take a Relaxing Soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
There is nothing better than sitting in steaming hot water while snow falls around you. The Banff Upper Hot Springs are especially cozy during the holiday season and make a great break from the cold.
4. Ride the Banff Gondola for Stunning Snow Covered Views
Head to the top of Sulphur Mountain with the Banff Gondola for panoramic winter views. With snowy peaks in every direction, it is one of the best spots in Banff for photos. There is also a boardwalk at the summit and warm indoor areas that are decked out in Christmas decorations.
There are activities like cookie decorating, live music, visits from Santa, and fire pits all while looking out over snowy mountain vistas. Check the Banff holiday schedule for more info.
5. Take a Christmas Lights Tour (In search of Christmas Spirit)
This is a self-guided outdoor light walk through the Cascade of Time Garden. It features theatrical storytelling, larger-than-life puppets, and a forest illuminated with lights.
You walk through a lit-up path, experience soundscapes, and enjoy a narrative about Banff wildlife and the forest. One of the coolest things you can do in Banff during the Christmas season.
6. Wander Along Banff Avenue at Night
Banff Avenue glows with Christmas lights during the holidays. Strolling the main street is one of the simplest and most enjoyable things to do. Stop for warm drinks, window shop, and take in the festive decorations.
Also one of the best ways to experience and see a new town. I love walking around and checking out the different gift shops, candy shops and more. Great time to do some Christmas shopping as well.
7. Go Ice Skating at an Outdoor Rink
There are several outdoor rinks around Banff where you can skate with mountain views in the background. The rink at Lake Louise is the most famous but Banff also has great local spots that feel less crowded.
8. Try Snowshoeing for a Peaceful Winter Adventure
Snowshoeing is a fun and easy winter activity even for beginners. Several rental shops in Banff offer snowshoes and there are scenic trails throughout the area. It is a peaceful way to explore the snowy forests and take in the quiet beauty of winter.
9. Enjoy a Sleigh Ride or a Dog Sled Through the Snow
If you want something straight out of a classic Christmas story, a sleigh ride is perfect for romantic dates or special occasions. You will glide through snowy forests and wide open meadows while wrapped in cozy blankets. It is romantic, peaceful, and great for families too.
You will also get some great views of Mount Rundle & Mount Norquay. it truly is an experience you can’t get many other places with those views.
If this is something you want to check out, click the link here
Or take a dog sled ride through the forests as well. My friend did this one when he went last year and he said it was tons of fun. One of the best ways to see the beauty of Banff during Christmas. Click the link here for the Dog Sled Ride.
Where to Eat in Banff at Christmas
The Maple Leaf
A cozy Canadian restaurant known for warm mountain dishes. Perfect for a holiday dinner.
Brewster Mountain Lodge:
For a more small town Christmas vibe, there’s a Brewster Country Christmas Dinner at a barn (or a “dance barn” vibe) with live music and a great homey dinner.
It’s super festive and makes you feel like you’re in a holiday movie in the mountains.
Park Distillery
Amazing comfort food with a campfire outside as well. The cocktails are great too.
Wild Flour Bakery
A great place for breakfast or a snack. Their baked goods hit the spot on a cold morning. Nice spot for a quick treat.
Where to Stay in Banff at Christmas
Fairmont Banff Springs
If you want a true Christmas castle experience, this is it. The decorations and atmosphere feel magical. You’re going to pay a premium to stay here but this place will not let you down. Everything you could want for Banff at Christmas.
Moose Hotel and Suites
Comfortable, modern, and close to everything on Banff Avenue. The rooftop hot pools are a bonus on a cold winter day as well. Nothing like a hot tub while looking out at the mountains.
Banff Aspen Lodge
A more budget friendly option with a warm and welcoming vibe. Small ski lodge kind of feel which is still great and they put on Christmas decorations and events as well.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Banff at Christmas time is really one of the best vacations you could ask for. Don’t believe me? Check it out on the home page. There are tons of fun Christmas activities to do, and spending Christmas in a snowy mountain town? I mean come on we’ve all wanted to be on the set of a Hallmark Christmas movie before right? This is basically what Banff is at Christmas
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