Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival 2025 in Banff & Jasper National Parks

Set in the beautiful mountains, the Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival gathers talented ice artists from around the world and thousands of spectators for an exciting international ice carving competition. For over 20 years, the tournament has been held every January at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, where skillful ice carvers create their unique artworks from huge 300 lb (136 kg) ice blocks in 36 hours.

Winterfest Program

Held as part of the larger Snow Days festival, the Ice Magic Festival mainly focuses on the art of ice sculpting and showcases intricate details and thought put into each masterpiece. Once the sun goes down, you have a chance to witness incredible ice sculptures come to life right before your eyes, thanks to a mesmerizing illumination lighting the displays. Besides ice pieces, come to Bear Street and Central Park in Banff to witness gorgeous snow sculptures. Numerous dining and entertainment opportunities are available during the evening.

During the day, visitors can also enjoy SnowDays Play Zone activities in Banff, usually open Wednesdays to Sundays. Slide, climb, and play with tons of snow at the specially designed fun area with curling, sliding hills, and a winter fat tire bike track. Bear Street Hub, as the name suggests, unfolds on select days on Bear Street and showcases a diverse lineup of circus and street artists, singers, and dancers, entertaining the crowds with their vibrant performances.

Schedule

The Ice Magic Festival spans from 10 am until 9 pm, with illumination on usually from 6 pm to 9 pm. Bear Street Hub and SnowDays Playzone are available during the event run on select days. The SnowDays festival itself is held from January 17th until February 2nd, 2025.

Tickets

Tickets are available for guests of the participating hotel in the area and can be booked through your hotel. This is done to prevent wildlife and natural areas from being harmed by overcrowding. However, tickets are complimentary and are included in the price of your stay. The pass offers free shuttle transportation. Some of the participating hotels include Lake Louise Inn, Charltons Banff, Baker Creek by Basecamp, Fairmont Banff Springs, and several others.

Other Winter Activities in Lake Louise

With a record annual snowfall of 3.5 m (140 in), Lake Louise is a perfect destination for all winter outdoor activities. Try winter hiking, exploring the surrounding slopes, checking out cross-country ski trails, or riding through the forest on a dog sled. Families visiting the festival can also enjoy skating on the backdrop of the spectacular Victoria Glacier towering over the lake.

Location

The Ice Magic Festival takes place in Lake Louise, nestled between the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park. Other SnowDays activities unfold in Banff, located just 35 miles (57 km) away from Lake Louise.