Winter Carnival Returns With A Twist

Hi everyone! Here's What’s Happening This Week!

This week brings a mix of winter tradition, big-picture news and a fun seasonal treat. The Banff Winter Carnival starts soon for its full Nov-Mar run, filling the Cave and Basin with classic games, snowy activities and a nostalgic nod to its 1917 roots.

The Calgary-Banff rail project is also back in the spotlight. New budget details show early funding to move the plan forward, paired with commitments to revitalise downtown Calgary. It's a significant signal that this long-talked-about link might finally be gaining traction.

And if you're exploring Banff's Hot Chocolate Trail, Sophia's Smoky Chilli Hot Chocolate is worth trying. With a mix of chocolate, Baileys, chilli vodka and mezcal, it's a cosy drink with a kick - and there's a non-alcoholic option too.

There's more happening across the valley, so take a look at the full event list below.

• Banff in November: What You Need To Know!

• Banff in December: What to Expect in the Heart of Winter!

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🏕️ Quiz

Yesterday’s Question

What year was Banff National Park established?

✅ Answer: A) 1885 - 49% Correct

🌤️ Today’s Weather

Banff: Cloudy with a 10% chance of snow, high 4 °C and low -1 °C.
Canmore: Cloudy with a 10% chance of snow, high 5 °C and low -1 °C.
Jasper: Cloudy, high 5 °C and low -2 °C.

👉 For a complete forecast for the week ahead, visit our Weather Page.

🏞️ Your Questions

Why is The Boss such a big deal in Banff?
Because no other bear tells Banff’s story quite like him. The Boss has dominated a 2,500-square-kilometre range, survived near-death encounters, and fathered most of the region’s grizzlies. He’s a symbol of power, survival, and the delicate balance between people and wildlife in the Rockies.

👉 Read his full story and learn how he continues to rule the Rockies.

🏔️ Fresh from the Rockies

❄️ Banff Winter Carnival is back for a full season of winter fun. Running from Nov 29 to Mar 30, this annual celebration brings the Cave and Basin to life with hands-on games, snowy challenges and a welcome dose of throwback charm. Mini curling, box hockey and classic winter activities set the tone, inviting visitors of all ages to jump in and play.

Vintage films and photos from the carnival’s Roaring Twenties heyday add a nostalgic twist, reminding everyone just how deep Banff’s winter roots run. What began in 1917 as a lively mix of ski jumping, hockey, curling and quirky contests like snow-shoe obstacle races and broom-ball grew into a signature tradition that helped define Banff as a winter destination.

This year’s edition keeps that spirit alive, offering families, friends and curious travellers a chance to celebrate the season, discover local history and enjoy pure Canadian winter magic. Explore the full experience.

🎄 Banff sign gets a new home with a festive giveaway twist. The Banff sign is moving to the Train Station on Nov 20, and to celebrate, 50 sneak-peek passes to the Banff Christmas Market are up for grabs. Snap a photo, share it and you might score one. See how to enter.

🚆 Calgary-Banff Rail gains momentum in Canada's 2025 budget. The federal plan sets aside early funding to push the long-discussed rail link forward, pairing it with new commitments to revive Calgary's downtown. Significant changes could be closer than expected. Explore what's proposed.

🍫 Sophia rolls out a spicy showstopper for the Hot Chocolate Trail. Their Smoky Chilli Hot Coco blends Baileys, Park Chilli Vodka, mezcal and rich chocolate for a cosy kick, with a non-alcoholic version ready for everyone. This one's a must-sip. Take a peek at the creation.

🚠 Glacier Express chairlift gets major safety and tech upgrade. Lake Louise's Glacier Express has been on pause for a full control, braking and wiring overhaul, with 300-plus new sensors and slicker drives set to boost safety and reliability for seasons to come. Get a peek behind the upgrade.

🎅 Crave launches its first-ever Breakfast with Santa. The newly renovated space at Banff Park Lodge is hosting a festive morning on Dec 7, complete with a visit from Santa and a family-friendly menu. Seats are limited and this one will fill fast. Check out the event details

🫕 Cheese fondue returns to Bridgette Bar Canmore. Rich Gruyere, Comte and Emmental fondue with speck, bratwurst, fried polenta, focaccia, crispy potatoes and more is back on the menu, perfect for cosy après vibes in town this winter for sharing nights out. See what’s bubbling away

📚 Banff Centre announces Mountain Writers Intensive Literary Cabaret. Emerging writers from a three-week residency will share fresh poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and journalism inspired by adventure, wilderness, and the mountain landscape, hosted by acclaimed authors Helen Mort and Kate Harris. Explore the full event details in the official announcement.

⭐ Most Popular Last Issue

🌌 Nightrise transforms Sulphur Mountain. This after-dark experience blends sound, light, and storytelling in collaboration with Moment Factory and the Stoney Nakoda Nation - watch as the summit comes alive with the magic of Nightrise.

🏔️ Plan Your Trip

Experience the Magic: Banff in December

Banff in December feels like stepping into a snow globe. The town sparkles with festive lights, snow blankets the mountains, and the air carries a quiet sense of magic. It’s the perfect time to experience winter adventures by day and cozy evenings by the fire at night.

Hit the slopes at Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, or Mt. Norquay, or wander through the frozen beauty of Johnston Canyon on an ice walk. Skating on Lake Louise, sleigh rides through snowy meadows, and stargazing over snow-covered peaks all make December in Banff unforgettable.

The season also brings special events like Mountaintop Christmas at the Banff Gondola, the Banff Christmas Market, and the heartwarming “In Search of Christmas Spirit” experience in town. Whether you’re chasing adventure or holiday charm, Banff in December has it all.

👉 Plan your December trip to Banff with our full post covering events, activities, and insider tips.

🎸Events, Activities & Live Music

📅 Today’s Events are listed below. To view future events, visit our website.

BANFF EVENTS | CANMORE EVENTS | JASPER EVENTS | BANFF HAPPY HOURS | CANMORE HAPPY HOURS |

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