New Year's Eve in Banff 2024-2025, Banff & Jasper National Parks

Banff Avenue is a meeting place for everyone who stays to celebrate the New Year in the town. The avenue becomes a pedestrian hub 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 & Fireworks

One of the biggest New Year's Eve celebrations is held in Banff Central Park, a picturesque green space situated along the Bow River. Hundreds of locals and tourists gather here to experience a winter fairytale and welcome the new year with open arms. The program includes live music, Indigenous dance performances, a tipi display, winter activities, a train for children, as well as hot cocoa and 'smores by a fire pit.

Visitors have an opportunity to take a picture with a Snow Fairy and a replica of a Banff sign. Local vendors offer numerous scrumptious delicacies at their stalls, including hot chocolate, mulled wine, and maple taffies. Try your hand at broomball, similar to hockey sport where players hit the ball with a broom. As people start chanting the countdown, the night culminates with a fireworks display at midnight to mark the arrival of the New Year. The event usually spans from 6 to 12 pm.

NYE Parties & Events in Banff

Banff resorts and hotels also host vibrant New Year's Eve celebrations for their residents. You can stay at Fairmont Banff Springs, famously known as the Castle in the Rockies, which holds an exquisite party with dancing and a five-course meal. If you're a fan of skiing, Lake Louise Ski Resort offers plenty of that, coupled with a night tubing on New Year's Eve and delicious cocktails, usually spanning from 7 pm to 1 am.

Things to Do in Banff

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.

Ice Skating & Other Attractions at Lake Louise

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, lay out ice sculptures, or a magical chateau. That's why many people choose this lake to spend an unforgettable NYE time with their family.