Winter in Banff means snow-draped mountains, cozy winter gear, and an abundance of magical activities. From exhilarating outdoor adventures in the heart of Banff National Park to festive Christmas events that spark holiday cheer, this mountain paradise offers endless ways to celebrate the season.
These festive events in Banff are perfect for those looking to swoon—whether it’s over your date, the breathtaking scenery, or both!

Banff Gondola Nightrise
Dates: Now through March 30, 2025
Times: Starting at 5 PM daily
Experience Sulphur Mountain (Mînî Rhuwî) like never before with Nightrise: Wonders of the Sky— a retelling of Stoney Nakkoda stories using light, sound and multimedia effects at the Banff Gondola. This unique nighttime adventure transforms your gondola journey into an immersive spectacle of sound, light, and storytelling.
Your adventure begins as the sun sets and you make your way to the Mountain, located south of the Banff townsite (Banff Ave).

The gondola’s ascent up Sulphur Mountain sets Nightrise into motion. Music, narration and original soundscapes fill the gondola cabin as you soar more than 2,000 feet in the air. Look out at the mountain views on the way to the top and watch as daylight dims and night rises.

Illuminating Indigenous history and language
Step onto the summit and embrace the night. There are several heartwarming stories and activities that highlight the magic of Iyarhe Nakoda culture throughout Nightrise.
Traditional drumming and singing begins to play as you exit the main floor. The cold mountain air and cosmic rays create the illusion of being one with the northern lights. Cosmic Rays (Apenene Garharhagach), Diamond Dust (Wiyapta Ptach), Alpenglow (Aîthîya Eya) and Frosted Waves (Yowatha) make up the Four Wonders — a series of immersive, interactive stations of light, sound and projections throughout the summit building.
This year, an interactive game is available for visitors to play and gain knowledge of the Stoney language. Members of Stoney Nakoda Nation can attend Nightrise free of charge. There are also traditional treats of bannock and jam to enjoy as you listen to the voices of mountains coming from all directions in the night sky.
Created by Moment Factory in participation with the Stoney Nakoda Nation and presented by Banff Gondola, this unique winter gathering merges immersive multimedia and nature for a new take on a familiar location.



The Rocky Mountains are a sacred place to many First Nation communities. From mountain peaks, waters trickle in serene streams. Streams that not only carry glacier waters but soothing healing powers — according to local beliefs.
These sacred lands whisper stories of tradition and reverence. In Banff National Park (Mînî Hrpa), a unique collaboration brings Iyarhe Nakoda (Stoney Nakoda) stories and language to life.
Hungry?
After all of that, warm up and dine on the mountaintop! Pair your moonlit adventure with a meal at Sky Bistro for elevated Canadian cuisine or enjoy a buffet-style dining experience at Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen.


End your evening under the stars with a visit to the rooftop Nightrise Bar for a sky-high nightcap before heading back down the Gondola.

Special Events throughout the season
Enhance your Nightrise experience with enchanting events that explore the mysteries of the lunar cycle, holidays, and more. This winter, join unique celebrations honouring each these exciting celebrations:
- Full Moon Fever Weekend – December 14-15, 5-10 p.m. – Join them at the summit for two evenings exploring the full moon, its cultural significance and the captivating stories it inspires. Plus, live performances, stargazing and more fun beneath the moonlit sky.
- Cold Moon – December 15
- Winter Solstice Celebration – December 21, 5 – 10 p.m. – Experience this year’s winter solstice at the summit and immerse yourself in the magic of the night. Plus, live performances, stargazing and more.
- New Year’s Eve – December 31, 5 – 10 p.m. – Why wait for the countdown to start celebrating? Head to the summit after sunset and enjoy live performances, marshmallow roasting and more.
- Full Moon Fever Weekend – January 10 – 11, 6 – 10 p.m.
- Wolf Moon – January 13
- Snownights – January 17 – February 1, 6 – 10 p.m. – Embrace the season during SnowNights — the after-dark counterpart to Banff’s SnowDays Festival — featuring live performances and stargazing at the summit.
- Snow Moon – February 12
- Valentine’s Day & Family Day Weekend – February 14 – 16, 6 – 10 p.m. – Love is in the air. Bring your special someone or the whole family for a weekend filled with stargazing, captivating stories, live entertainment and more.
- Alpenglow Evenings – February 21 – March 30, 7 – 10 p.m. – Witness the enchanting beauty of alpenglow as the mountains blush under the fading light. Complete your evening with live performances, stargazing and more on the mountaintop.
- Worm Moon – March 14
- Closing Night – March 30, 7 – 10 p.m. – Help the team close out Nightrise’s fourth season with a sky-high celebration. Don’t miss your chance to experience the beauty of the summit beneath the moonlit sky one last time!
Each event delves into the fascinating stories and traditions tied to these full moons, enhances your memories with loves ones, and gives you some awesome date nights this winter.
Make it a Banff staycation!
Experience the most epic date night and sleep-over in the mountains with the Banff Gondola Nightrise hotel package!
Book the package through Pursuit for a stay at at Banff’s Mount Royal Hotel or Elk + Avenue Hotel and receive two complimentary adult tickets to Nightrise at the Banff Gondola! This package is valid for travel until March 30, 2025.


Open Top Touring Winter Wonder
Dates: Thursdays to Sundays until March 16, 2025 (weather permitting)
Time: 2 PM
Pickup Locations: Various spots around Banff
Embark on one of winter’s most unforgettable experiences with Open Top Touring Winter Wonder! Perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking to soak in Banff’s winter magic, this guided tour takes you through the snow-covered landscapes in vintage-inspired, glass-top vehicles giving you the ultimate views.

Climb aboard their vintage-1930s inspired vehicle with an intimate group of 20 and take in the snowcapped beauty of the charming mountain town. Hear legendary stories as you visit Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Viewpoint, Surprise Corner, Bow Falls and Banff Avenue.
The adventure doesn’t end there! After the tour, ascend Sulphur Mountain for a buffet dinner at Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen, followed by the mesmerizing Nightrise at the Banff Gondola. It’s like combining multiple unforgettable date ideas into one incredible outing.
To make the ride even cozier, light snacks and refreshments are included.

[Sponsored by Pursuit Collection]
Plan all the best festive and winter dates in your favourite spots here!