It’s beginning to look a lot like the holiday season. And if you’re looking to get your fill of good food, see some decorations, or just soak in the scenery, there are plenty of places in the Canadian Rockies to celebrate the season. Here are some suggestions if you’re hitting up the mountains for some holiday fun.

Holiday Fun in Canmore

There are plenty of ways to celebrate the season in Canmore, and many of them are free options for the whole family. Visit the Rotary Club of Canmore’s Festival of Trees. This display, on until Dec 31, is a magical forest of Christmas trees and wreaths inside The Malcolm Hotel’s main floor hallways. It’s completely free to walk through and admire the trees! Other festive events at The Malcolm include raffles, The Spirits of Christmas Tasting Experience, Festival Charity Auction, Kids Holiday Extravaganza, Senior’s Christmas Tea, Breakfast with Santa, and more!

If holiday theatre is on your list, then Carter-Ryan Theatre is sure to get you in the festive spirit. Get your belly laughs in with Bridget Ryan’s Joy to the World: A Holly Jolly Christmas Cabaret. This evening promises music, laughter, and unforgettable stories about Christmas from an award-winning cabaret performer. Sing-a-longs, song-a-longs, surprise guests, and gifts – this evening has it all!

Holiday Fun in Banff

Banff has never shied away from a holiday celebration, and this year is no exception! Find magical storytelling about the animals of Banff National Park on an enchanted trail with illuminated sculptures. In Search of Christmas Spirit is quickly becoming a favourite holiday tradition! Bundle up for a walk through the Cascade of Time Garden for this family-friendly holiday event. The event is free, but tickets are required. Book your magical evening, here.

Banff Lake Louise Tourism | Paul Zizka

Find holiday celebrations at the Fairmont Banff Springs from theatre to decorations and special events. Enjoy A Christmas Carol, by the Carter-Ryan Theatre Company, and rediscover the meaning of Christmas in this holiday classic. Meet Santa, enjoy Family Fun Time, get creative with Kids Crafts, and more. There is a whole calendar of events for the family to enjoy!

Santa will be busy around Banff this holiday season, with visits to Banff Sunshine Village, the Banff Gondola, and Lake Louise Ski Resort. Plus, you never know where you might spot the man in red around town before the big day!

So if you're looking to blend the magic of the season with the majesty of the mountains, visit Banff and Canmore this holiday season and get the best of both worlds!