The mountains have a long history of inspiring great artists. Don’t sleep on the winter arts scene in Banff! There’s something for everyone this winter!

On at the Whyte

The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies not only showcases great historical exhibits, but their gallery hosts incredible showcases that display the artistic side of the mountains. On display until April 12 is Elise Rasmussen: An Alpine Trilogy and Second Take: Histories of Film in the Rockies.

Live at Banff Centre

Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity has been a staple in Banff since the 1930s. They have a constant stream of events to check out, from film screenings to artist talks to presentations from their artists-in-residence. At the Walter Philips Gallery, see Sharon Lockhart’s exhibition on the geography and youth of Fogo Island in Newfoundland and Labrador. This exhibition is an exploration of place and how people engage with landscapes. It's on display until Jan 7, 2026. Also see Listening Devices, a series of audio- and score-based works that are informed by the relationship between sound, listener, and location.

Stay for a Show

Local Carter-Ryan Productions regularly hosts professional theatre in a small, intimate setting. See productions of A Christmas Carol and The ABBA-solutely Fabulous Holiday Show! at the Fairmont Banff Springs this Christmas season. For an outdoor display of art and storytelling, see In Search of Christmas Spirit at the Cascade of Time Gardens for a live Christmas story told by the animals of Banff National Park. It's the perfect way to get in the spirit of the season.

Taylor Jaine