Town of Banff

WinterStart

Enjoying the snow at Banff's WinterStart Festival

November 1 - December 4, 2011

Every year, Banff and Lake Louise celebrate the start of winter with fun events for both residents and visitors.

November 26 - 27

Men's World Cup Ski Racing
Lake Louise Winterstart World Cup Downhill

December 2 - 3

Women's World Cup Ski Racing
Lake Louise Winterstart World Cup Downhill

Saturday, December 3

Christmas in the Courtyard, Bison Courtyard, 211 Bear Street
11:30 a.m.  - 3:30 p.m.
Featuring professionally carved ice sculptures from ordinary blocks of ice, "Little Chippers" ice carving stations and outdoor fire to warm yourself.

Christmas in the Rockies, Cascade Plaza, Banff Avenue
1 - 4 p.m.
Holiday treats and Santa Claus.

• Christmas crafts
• face painting
• Santa Claus photos
• cookie decorating fun
• performance by Bow Valley Chorus
• Christmas tree decorating competition
• free popcorn

Santa Claus Parade of Lights, Banff Avenue

5:30 p.m.
Banff's Santa Claus Parade is the perfect way to end a family day: lights twinkle under the Rocky Mountain sky, as a parade of holiday floats delights the crowds lining the streets of Banff Avenue.