Banff Avenue is a meeting place for everyone who stays to celebrate the New Year in the town. The avenue turns pedestrian after 7 pm on New Year's Eve and transforms into a giant open-air party. Street performances, dances, fire pits, many restaurants, and, of course, insulated clothes will keep you awake and warm until morning.
Banff Central Park Countdown
Don't hesitate to attend the NYE celebration at Banff Central Park, running from 6 pm until midnight. The program includes live music, indigenous dance performances, a tipi display, winter activities, a train for children, as well as hot cocoa and c'mores by a fire pit. The countdown ends with a fireworks display at midnight to mark the arrival of the New Year.
Those who want an active, outdoorsy New Year's celebration should also come to Banff National Park. It is an ideal place for hiking by the frozen waterfalls in Johnston Canyon or dog sledding through the woods and across frozen lakes. To fully enjoy the views, take a helicopter tour above the Rocky Mountains. The cherry on top is a relaxing dip in one of the hot springs pools.
And no winter trip to Banff should happen without the iconic ice skating spot. As soon as the temperature drops, Lake Louise in Banff National Park is ready for ice skating. The giant skating rink is surrounded by forest and rocky mountains. On the lake, you can play hockey, layout ice sculptures, or a magical chateau. That's why many people choose this lake to spend an unforgettable New Year's Eve time with their family.
