As the colder months approach, us here in Banff National Park, there’s so much to look forward to! The stunning golden larches and the majestic snow-capped mountains make every corner of Banff a must-visit during the cooler months. To keep you cozy and entertained as the temperatures drop, we’ve put together a list of events that will help you stay warm and excited throughout the season.

September Events 

Art in Nature Trail:  

Dates: July 1st – September 30
Times: Open 24/7
Location: Bow River Trail

Explore the perfect blend of art and nature as you stroll your way along the beautiful Bow River with the Art in Nature Trail. The trail features a curated collection of 65+ local artists in different mediums. This is a free event and is self-guided. Click here for a detailed map and more information about the pieces & artists featured.    

Banff Farmers Market  

Dates: Every Wednesday until October 9
Times: 10:00am – 6:00pm
Location: Central Park

This farmers market showcases local produce & several other goods such as jewelry, artwork, photographs, paintings, etc. Located in Banff’s Central Park, this is the perfect place to purchase a unique & local Banff souvenir for you or a loved one! For more information about the Farmer’s Market click here. 

October Events 

Banff Pride 

Dates: October 4 – 14
Times: Various
Location: Various

Celebrate diversity surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain views. Experience Pride like no other featuring live music featuring local 2SLGBTQIA+ musicians, engaging speakers, and party alongside Drag Race Royalty Scarlet Bob and Pythia. There are events for everyone to enjoy and celebrate diversity in beautiful Banff Town! For more information on Banff Pride click here. 

Taste for Adventure 

Dates: October 24 – November 7
Times: Various
Location: Various 

Take a culinary tour through the unique flavors of Banff National Park with Taste for Adventure. This event will feature the region’s top chefs and restaurants and will provide exclusive menus, unique dishes, and foodie events perfect for all levels of food connoisseurs.  

Stay tuned for the list of restaurants that will be participating in this culinary experience, more information can be found here! 

Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival 

Dates: October 26 – November 3
Times: Various
Location: Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity 

Experience enthralling journeys and ground-breaking expeditions presented by authors, photographers, adventurers, and filmmakers from around the world. The festival will feature over 80 films, and a variety of exciting events to choose from. A more detailed overview of the event can be found here. 

November & December Events 

Banff Christmas Market 

Dates: November 14 – 17, 22 – 24, 29 – December 1 & 6 – 8 

Times: 10:00am 

Location: Banff Train Station 

The annual Banff Christmas Market is the perfect way to get you into the Christmas spirit. It combines the charm and tradition of European holiday markets with a unique Canadian twist, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. With plenty of unique gifts, culinary delights, and live entertainment, it’s the ideal way to kickstart your Christmas season. More information about this exciting event can be found here!

Hot Chocolate Trail 

Dates: November 15 – December 31 

Times: Daily during opening hours 

Location: Various Locations 

This holiday season, set out on a flavorful journey through town and savor a variety of hot chocolates, from timeless classics to inventive new creations. The Banff and Lake Louise Hot Chocolate Trail is your guide to over 20 restaurants and cafes, each serving a special, limited-time festive hot chocolate. Featuring a stop at our very own STOCK cafe! A list of all participants can be found here.

In Search of Christmas 

Dates: November 15 – December 31 

Times: TBD 

Location: Cascade of Time Garden 

Experience the magic of Christmas in Banff National Park this holiday season with In Search of Christmas Spirit. Bundle up and take a stroll through the Cascade of Time Garden, where you’ll enjoy a live Christmas tale narrated by the animals of Banff National Park. More information will be released closer to the event & can be found here!

Santa Claus Celebration of Lights 

Dates: November 16 & 17 

Times: November 16 – 12:00pm – 7:00pm, November 17 – 9:00am – 2:00pm  

Start the Christmas season in downtown Banff with a festive weekend of fun and entertainment. On Saturday, enjoy local artists, whimsical performers, an expanded “Santa’s Workshop,” and more family-friendly activities. 

Stay for the ultimate experience with “Storytime with Santa” on Sunday, featuring a cozy Christmas morning with Santa and his elves. Ticket details for “Storytime with Santa” will be available in October and can be found here.  

Banff Craft Beer Festival 

Dates: November 21 – 23 

Times: From 5:00pm 

Location: Cave and Basin National Historic Site  

The Banff Craft Beer Festival is back at Cave and Basin National Historic Site in 2024. As Alberta’s only craft beer festival, enjoy samples from over 40 local brewers, savor food and drink, meet brewmasters, and experience live entertainment while exploring Banff’s vibrant food and drink scene! Ticket purchase and the full schedule can be found here. 

With so many fun activities to keep you cozy during the upcoming cold months, Banff National Park is a must-visit. Embrace the winter magic of Banff and let the beauty of the park make your colder days truly unforgettable.

This fall, experience the luxury of Fairmont Banff Springs.

Book now to save $100 per night on accommodation with our Luxury is DMing You Offer.