Hi Everyone! Here's Whatβs Happening This Week!
There is a real mix of mountain life in the headlines right now, from wildlife to housing to conservation efforts that stretch far beyond town limits. It is one of those weeks where the Rockies feel both close to home and part of something much bigger.
A fun local story making the rounds is a new children's book inspired by Banff's most famous grizzly, often known simply as "The Boss." The story blends adventure with important lessons about bear awareness, turning a well-known wild resident into a character families can talk about long after story time ends. It is a light-hearted way to keep mountain safety in the conversation.
On a more serious note, housing in Canmore is back in the spotlight. Prices for single detached homes are expected to keep climbing into next year, even with some recent cooling in sales. Limited supply and ongoing demand mean affordability remains a challenge for many locals and workers in the valley. If you are thinking of moving to Canmore, donβt wait!
Meanwhile, there is hopeful news for wildlife lovers. A new caribou conservation breeding programme is getting underway, led by Parks Canada, aiming to rebuild fragile herds in the mountain parks. It is a long-term effort, but an important step toward protecting one of the region's most threatened species.
There is plenty more happening this week. Dive into the event listings below, or check out the detailed events page on our website.
Banff in January: Read this before planning your trip!
Banff in February: What you need to know!
π€οΈ Todayβs Weather
Banff: Mostly sunny with light snow, high 3 Β°C and low -1 Β°C.
Canmore: Partly cloudy, high 5 Β°C and low -1 Β°C.
Jasper: Cloudy, high 5 Β°C and low -2 Β°C.
π For a complete up-to-date forecast for the week ahead, visit our Weather Page.
If youβve seen photos of frozen ice bubbles and wondered how people actually get there, this guided winter tour removes the guesswork. The route includes time at Abraham Lake to see the natural ice bubbles up close, plus stops at Peyto Lake and Bow Lake.
Snowshoes are provided where needed, warm drinks are included, and the guide handles road conditions, timing, and safe access on icy terrain. Itβs a good choice if you want to experience these winter landscapes without navigating winter highways or figuring out equipment on your own.
As a bonus, the journey includes part of the Icefields Parkway, which is especially striking in winter.
ποΈ Fresh from the Rockies
π» Banff's legendary grizzly bear stars in new children's book. "The Little Grizzly Who Walked Like a Boss" teaches kids about bear safety and bravery. You can pick up a copy at CafΓ© Books in Canmore, the Whyte Museum or on Amazon.*
βοΈ Chinook winds have temporarily paused Banff skating. Unseasonably warm weather has softened outdoor ice, prompting the Town of Banff to close all rinks for safety. Stay off the slush to help crews target a Monday reopening.
π Canmore housing costs are set to rise further in 2026. Despite a recent softening in sales volume, single-detached home prices are forecast to increase. A tightening supply and the impending expiry of the federal foreign buyer ban are expected to keep values climbing.
πΊ The Grizzly Paw unveils a killer taproom renovation. One of Canmore's favourite local breweries has finished a fresh makeover. The updated space is now ready for pints and catch-ups, with locals already praising the amazing new look.
π¦ Pyramid Mountain area faces temporary lane closures. ATCO Electric is installing underground lines along Pyramid Lake Road and Patricia Bungalows Access until 30 April. Please obey traffic signage and expect minor delays while these essential infrastructure upgrades are completed.
π¦ Jasper caribou conservation breeding program takes flight. Parks Canada is launching a first-of-its-kind initiative to rebuild dwindling herds. The programme integrates science with Indigenous perspectives to ensure calves get a safe start in their wild mountain home.
βοΈ Level up your skills with Mt. Norquay's multi-week clinics. Starting the week of 2 February, these 4-week adult programmes offer expert coaching in small groups of four.
π₯ Fireside Sunset is Banffβs hot new aprΓ¨s pop-up. Launching 6 February on the Juniper Bistro patio, this event features street-food bites by Chef Sergio and Wild Life Distillery cocktails. Gather by the glowing firepitsΒ Thursdays and FridaysΒ through February for just Β£19 ($33) per ticket.
β Most Popular Last Issue
Banff's #1 Rated Hotel - Peaks Hotel & Suites. Ranked the top place to stay by TripAdvisor travellers, this hotel is less than a minute from Banff Avenue. Enjoy a quiet, central stay with contact-free check-in and access to the pool and steam room at Banff Park Lodge. Check it out for yourself here.
ποΈ Quiz
Which iconic mountain peak is shown in this photo, towering over the town of Canmore?
Todayβs quiz answer appears at the end of the events section below.
Moraine Lake and Lake Louise are two of the most popular Banff destinations, but Moraine Lake has no private vehicle access, and parking at Lake Louise is extremely limited. This half-day tour removes those hurdles by including round-trip transport from Banff and handling access for you.
ποΈ Plan Your Trip - Your Questions Answered
Are there any short hikes near downtown Canmore? Yes, here are five easy hikes you can do from downtown. If you have a vehicle, Grassi Lakes is nearby.
Is the Fairmont Banff Springs really haunted? From bellmen to bartenders, the spirits are legendary. Meet the ghosts.
Is Johnston Canyon worth visiting? Yes, but timing makes all the difference. Find out how to get the most from your visit.
Does Canmore have the same residency restrictions as Banff? No, the rules for Canmore are different. Find out more here.
Are there grizzly bears in Banff National Park? Yes, and sightings are common in certain areas. Learn how to stay safe.
πΈEvents, Activities & Live Music
π Todayβs Events are listed below. To view future events, visit our website.
Sunday, February 1
15:00 |
Live Music Afternoon |
Three Bears | Banff
15:30 |
Park Distillery Tour |
Park Distillery | Banff
19:00 |
Balkan Greek Night: Dinner Show |
The Balkan | Banff
19:30 |
Snowed In Comedy Tour |
artsPlace Canmore | Canmore
20:00 |
Music Bingo with Sam |
Tavern 1883 | Canmore
21:00 |
Sunday Funday (Party) |
Melissa's Missteak | Banff
21:00 |
Sunday Funday: Party |
High Rollers | Banff
22:00 |
Live Music Night! |
Rose & Crown | Banff
Monday, February 2
14:00 |
Talk: Glaciers' Preservation |
The Banff Centre | Banff
15:30 |
Park Distillery Tour |
Park Distillery | Banff
19:30 |
Monday Trivia with Joe |
Moxy Banff | Banff
20:00 |
Live Music Night |
Three Bears | Banff
20:00 |
Monday Trivia |
High Rollers | Banff
21:00 |
Open Mic/Jam Night |
Rose & Crown | Canmore
22:00 |
Karaoke Night |
The Drake Screaming Retreiver | Canmore
22:00 |
DJ Set: Tunes with Tenax |
High Rollers | Banff
Tuesday, February 3
15:30 |
Park Distillery Tour |
Park Distillery | Banff
19:00 |
Trivia Tuesday |
Rose & Crown Restaurant & Pub | Canmore
19:00 |
Hockey: Canmore Eagles (in Banff) |
Banff Fenlands Arena | Banff
22:00 |
DJ Styler Nazo |
High Rollers | Banff
π Got An Event To Share?
π
Submit Here (8 days before event date)
Complete starred sections. For a FREE LISTING, check the box on the promotions page.
ποΈ Todayβs Quiz Answer
β Answer: 1) Ha Ling Peak
Head to the Canmore Engine Bridge for a great spot for photos of the peak.
Yesterdayβs Question: Which famous icefield is shown in this photo, located along the Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper?
β Answer: 68% of you correctly chose Athabasca Glacier.
π’ The Banff Bulletin
The best food, tours, and finds across the Park.
ποΈ Lake Louise & Johnston Canyon Half-Day Tour - Price drop from $89 to $60 until Feb 15 on this 4.9β rated tour. View deal
π§ Discounted Abraham Ice Bubbles Tour - Visit Abraham, Peyto and Bow Lakes, with snowshoeing. Was $143, now $82 until March 31. Reserve here
π° Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel - Spring savings now running at Fairmont Banff Springs, with limited-time hotel offers & special rates for select stays. View spring deals
πΏ Banff Sunshine Village - Ikon Pass Friends & Family Discount: get up to 50% off lift tickets when purchased by Feb 13, 2026. Find out more
π» Happy Hour at The Corner Pub, Canmore - Tuesday to Friday, 2-5 pm. $7.50 draft beers and food specials from $11. View details
π Thatβs All For Now π¬
Another week of mountain magic awaits!
We're so glad you're here for the ride.
Keep exploring and sharing, and we'll see you in the next issue with another full lineup of Banff happenings.
Jill & Kevin | Editor | Whatβs On Banff

π¬ Want to get in touch? For feedback, local stories, or questions, reply to this email.
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