Holidays in Canmore

The picturesque, snow-covered mountains, starry nights, and bright holiday lights make Canmore a winter wonderland every year. Visitors come from around the province—and across the country—to ski, hike, and sightsee in our beautiful city. This year, with the new decade approaching, we’ve got a full calendar of holiday events and activities to choose from.

We’ve curated a list of our eight favourite events this year to help you design your perfect holidays in Canmore. Whether you’re a local or you’re new to our city, you can use our list to make unforgettable memories this season.

Take A Dog Sled Tour

Dog sleds may seem like a fun new way to explore Canmore and area, but they’re one of the oldest methods of transportation around! Learn more about dog sledding, and the brave and beautiful animals who work on the teams, with a holiday tour. You can find tour schedules and rates at Snowy Owl Tours, Howling Dog Tours, or Mad Dogs and Englishmen.

Trying to find the perfect gift for a person who has everything? Many dog sled tour companies also offer gift certificates.

For a fun family evening, rent a copy of Balto to watch in front of the fire before or after your sled tour. The animated movie showcases a frightening event in history, and how brave mushers and dog teams helped save an Alaskan town.

“Joy To The World” Christmas Cabaret

December 10-22

Award-winning cabaret performer Bridget Ryan brings her Christmas show to Canmore this year. “Joy To The World” features laughs, sing-a-longs, surprise guests, and surprise gifts! Ryan performs at the Carter-Ryan Gallery & Live Art Venue, on a stage set with sculptures and paintings, for a truly unforgettable experience.

For an extra special night out, start the evening with dinner at Murrieta’s On Main. Dinner & show packages are available through the Carter-Ryan Gallery. 

Get Into The “Spirits” Of The Season

December 13

The Rotary Club of Canmore has sponsored this year’s Festival of Trees and related events, including their signature “Spirits of Christmas”.This evening of scotch, beer, and wine takes place at the Malcolm Hotel. Mingle with other spirit aficionados, taste some delicious libations, and support the Rotary Club and the Festival of Trees. 

For a relaxing and entertaining night, reserve a room at the Malcolm Hotel. Start your evening with a meal at a local restaurant (we love nearby Blake), stroll down to the event and sip your way through the various offerings, then retire to your suite. You won’t have to worry about driving home, and you’ll give yourself the gift of a fantastic night out!

Take Photos With Santa—Canmore Style

December 15

This year, take the family to local favourite  Grizzly Paw Brewery for pictures with Santa! Kids will love cozying up to the man in the red before roasting marshmallows on the patio. Grownups will appreciate the pint specials running all day. All photos are by donation, and the brewery is collecting donations (food or cash) to support the Bow Valley Food Bank.

Attend An Ice Cave Concert

December 19 – 22

Spirit In the Mountainis a unique winter concert held in a real underground ice cave! Your evening begins with a hike to Grotto Mountain, followed by a guided caving experience to Rat’s Nest Cave. There, the acoustic qualities of the cave make for an unforgettable concert experience, which lasts for four nights and features four different bands. 

This year’s lineup includes Trundled , Elk Run & Riot , Seth Anderson , and The Silkstones . The variety of musical acts means there’s something for everyone this year.

Winter in Canmore - Cave Concert 1

Winter in Canmore - Cave Concert 2

Winter in Canmore - Solstice Party

Go A Little Boho

December 21

Even in a setting as beautiful as Canmore, with the majestic Rockies rising all around, there may come a day when you wish summer was on the way. Capture that sun-soaked feeling with a cheeky “solstice party” at Grizzly Paw Brewery. Don your best Hawaiian shirt, flip-flops, and sunglasses and visit the Brewery for free samples of its latest release. Snack on appetizers and enjoy live music throughout the evening. You might even win the “best dressed” prize

Party On The Pond

December 31

Ring in the new year—make that the new decade!—at this year’s Party On The Pond. Hosted by the Town of Canmore, this New Year’s event features outdoor skating, hot chocolate, and live music. A pyrotechnics show at 8 pm is great for little ones, or anyone who has to turn in early. At midnight, join hands and sing “Auld Lang Syne” beneath a sky full of fireworks at Millenium Park.

If you’re a local looking to give back, the Town of Canmore is also looking for volunteers to help work the event.

 

As you plan which winter events to attend, remember to leave time for strolling our beautifully decorated downtown, doing a little shopping, savouring a mug of hot chocolate, and making family memories. Spending the holidays in Canmore is exciting, but spending time with your loved ones is a priceless gift!

If you’re interested in moving to our unique and inspiring community, we would love to help you find your dream home. Contact Rob or Tammy at (403)775-6950 for more information on buying or selling in Canmore.