
Not only is Banff the perfect destination to experience the great outdoors at its best, it also plays host to a number of world class, family fun and 'uniquely Banff' events and festivals.
Below is a calendar of popular events within the town of Banff and Banff National Park.
December 2011
31st: New Year's Eve- Wild Bill's Legendary Saloon.
Saddle up and ride on into 2012 with style. Live entertainment, dinner, drinks, and a big party.
31st: New Year's Eve- Fireworks.
Fireworks, December 31 at midnight
Join the festival atmosphere throughout downtown Banff on December 31 for fireworks starting at midnight. The fireworks are launched from the Parks Canada Administration grounds at the south end of Banff Avenue.
January 2012
13-14th: Banff SaSquash Open.
The Banff Rocky Mountain Resort hosts this unique Squash Tournament set in the heart of Banff National Park.
21st - 23nd: Ice Magic Festival.
In the shadow of the glacier clad Mt. Victoria witness teams of professional carvers as they compete in the prestigious International Ice
Carving Competition held each year at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
February 2012
14th: Valentines Day
18th - 20th: Family Day Long Weekend.
Coinciding with Presidents Day in the US, this is one of the busiest weekends of the year for the town of Banff. Be sure to book your accommodation early as we sell out every year.
25th - 26th: Lake Louise Pond Hockey Classic.
Stay in Banff and visit Lake Louise for this great Canadian tradition: Pond Hockey on Lake Louise. Take advantage of this great action packed event. 24 teams competing for Canadian glory.
May 2012
13th - 14th: Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival.
The Festival offers a chance to sample an extensive variety of wine, scotch, import beer and premium spirits, along with gourmet food samples from local restaurants and hotels.
June 2012
14th - 17th: Banff Bike Festival.
Banff National Park Bike Fest features five challenging road races and two family friendly events taking place throughout Banff and Lake Louise.
(More info and Packages available.)
July 2012
1st: Canada Day Celebrations.
Enjoy the parade down Banff Ave before heading to Central Park for the spectacular fireworks display.
6th - 15th: Calgary Stampede
Celebrate 2012 Centennial, and come out to the Rocky Mountains too.
"The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth!" Started in 1912, The Calgary Stampede is a popular 10-day event held every summer in Calgary, Alberta. The Stampede hosts world-class rodeo, parade, midway, stage shows, concerts, agricultural competitions, chuckwagon racing and First Nations exhibitions.
August 2012
11th & 12th: Dragon Boat Festival.
It's not something you see in Banff National Park everyday. Twenty-two souls, backs and arms straining to paddle a mythical Chinese dragon boat - where a split-second difference in timing and cadence can throw off perfectly intense synchronicity.
(More info and Packages available.)
September 2012
8th: Subaru Banff Triathlon.
Spectate or compete in what many consider one of the most spectacular triathlon events in the world.
(More info and Packages available.)
22th: Melissa's Road Race.
The ever popular Melissa's 10Km & 22Km Road race.
October 2012
20th: Race Amazing Banff.
Put your 'Survivor' skills to the test with 14 physical and mental challenges. Can you solve puzzles, overcome obstacles, and reach checkpoints faster than the other teams of two? Of course you can—this 'Amazing Race' is a test of determination, not physical ability.
Event details.
31st: Halloween.
Fireworks, Bonfire, and fun in Banff. Come to Banff there is something for every age group!
November 2012
3rd: Winterstart 5 Miler Night Run.
The Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa is home to the Banff Winterstart 5 Mile Night Run. The very popular event is sure to be another sell out and always a great time to be had by all.
(More info and Packages available.)
December 2012
WinterStart- Christmas in the Rockies with Santa.
Join us as we celebrate the holiday season with Christmas in the Rockies! Led by Santa Claus, creative and festive floats will parade down Banff Ave, highlighting the Christmas spirit of the Banff National Park.
(More info and Packages available.)
31st: New Year's Eve- Wild Bill's Legendary Saloon.
Saddle up and ride on into 2013 with style. Live entertainment, dinner, drinks, and a big party.
31st: New Year's Eve- Fireworks.
Fireworks, December 31 at midnight
Join the festival atmosphere throughout downtown Banff on December 31 for fireworks starting at midnight. The fireworks are launched from the Parks Canada Administration grounds at the south end of Banff Avenue.