Santa Claus Celebration of Lights
A festive weekend of holiday activities and entertainment to kick off the quintessential Christmas season in downtown Banff. Expect a full-day of cheerful celebrations on Saturday. Enjoy talented local and Albertan artists performing on the Cascade Castle Main Stage, whimsical performers found through the event site, an even bigger "Santa's Workshop" with crafts galore, and more magical activities for you and the whole family to enjoy.
Stay the night for the ultimate Christmas weekend and experience "Storytime with Santa" on Sunday where Santa and his elves will host a cozy Christmas morning.
Ticket information for "Storytime with Santa" will be available in September.
Event Overview
- Nov 16 & 17, 2024
- Sat 12 pm - 7 pm & Sun 9 am - 2 pm
- 100 Block of Banff Avenue, Caribou Street & Bear Street
Event Details
Saturday 16 November
Enter the whimsical festive wonderland of downtown Banff where celebrations and performances will be taking place from 12pm - 7pm. The iconic Cascade Castle Main Stage will be hosting family friendly musicians and performers all day. As the sun begins to set, gather around the stage for the grand arrival of Santa Claus, with dancing elves leading the way up Banff Avenue. You won't want to miss Santa's special main show.
If you're after a moment of calm, head down to Bashful Bear's Hideaway where you can cozy up for some low-stimulation entertainment, musicians, and story-telling. For the creative critters in the crowd, make your way to Santa’s Workshop where festive crafts will be on offer all day, from decorating ornaments and cookies, to writing that all important letter to Santa.
Sunday 17 November
Join us for an intimate Christmas morning experience in the heart of Banff, at one of the "Storytime with Santa” sessions. Santa Claus, along with some special guests, will gather round to tell some of your favorite holiday stories and share in the wonder of Banff this Christmas. Storytime with Santa sessions will be ticketed, with more information on this to be released soon.
AND the festive fun doesn't end there., with lots of other seasonal events and offerings, including In Search of Christmas Spirit, Hot Chocolate Trail, Banff Christmas Market, and more.
Please note: In the event of extreme weather conditions, the Santa Claus Celebration of Lights may be modified or cancelled.
Event Location
Walking
The event is centrally located in downtown Banff and is within easy walking distance from many hotels.
Public Transit
Use Roam Public Transit Route 1 or 2 for easy access to downtown Banff from many hotels.
Parking
The Banff Train Station has free 9-hour parking and is only a 5-10 minute walk from many of the event sites. Paid parking is in effect for downtown parking.