Reminiscent of traditional European Christmas markets, the Banff Christmas Market is a fun and family-friendly celebration that will get you right into the holiday spirit.

Come experience the sights, scents, and sounds of the holidays among beautiful, snow-capped mountain peaks. You’ll get to shop for unique holiday gifts for your loved ones, sample culinary delights, and take part in all sorts of fun activities.

This year, Santa Claus will be coming to Banff town to fill the market at the Warner Stables with handcrafted gifts from Thursday, November 22nd to Sunday, November 25th. The Banff Christmas Market will be held from 5 pm to 8 pm on Thursday, 10 am to 8 pm on Friday and Saturday, and 10 am to 4 pm on Sunday. Admission is just $5 for a day entry or $8 for the entire weekend. Children 12 years of age or younger get in for free.

The market provides a welcoming atmosphere for children and adults of all ages. It is designed upon the concept of capturing the tradition of Old World Christmas markets while showcasing Banff, the Bow Valley, and the surrounding areas. This makes for a lovely and relaxing shopping atmosphere so that you can take your time browsing all of the different booths for gifts and keepsakes. One-of-a-kind Rocky Mountain treasures abound everywhere you look.

The vendors sell items such as hand-blended tea, practical and stylish winter gear, fine jewellery made with Alberta ammolite, beautiful traditional sculptures, and sustainable honey products. Many vendors are local while others come from other parts of Canada.

Don’t worry, there is a lot for the kids to do at the Banff Christmas Market as well. The most popular activity is taking a photo with Santa Claus, who will have his own little house just outside of the Warner Stables. Santa will be at the market from 4 pm to 6 pm on Friday, 11 am to 2 pm on Saturday, and 1 pm to 3 pm on Sunday. There will be a professional photographer on-site, as well as a hamper drive for Santas Anonymous.

Weather permitting, you will also have the opportunity to take a sleigh ride on Saturday and Sunday between 1 pm and 3 pm. The sleigh rides are operated by Banff Trail Riders and offer amazing views of the surrounding mountains as you cozy up under provided wool blankets. Booking and payment are all done on-site.

You’ll find the Warner Stables just south down Banff Avenue, by taking your first right after crossing the bridge across the Bow River. Then it’s just another right onto Sundance Road. If it’s a nice day, you might also want to consider walking to the market after you’ve finished looking around downtown Banff.

The Warner Stables are a charming venue that delights adults and children alike, and the market brings even more holiday spirit and cheer. If you want to get a start on your Christmas shopping or just have a nice outing with the family, then the Banff Christmas Market is well worth attending.