This year, the festival runs from November 29th through December 7th, with two action-packed weekends of winter sports, music, children’s activities… and everyone’s favourite attraction, the annual Santa Claus Parade of Lights.

At the World Cup alpine races in Lake Louise (Nov.29/30, Dec.6/7), the fastest skiers on earth hurtle down the mountain at speeds that easily top 100 kilometres per hour.

The busiest day of WinterStart is Saturday Dec. 6. In the afternoon, bring the young ones out to enjoy Christmas in the Rockies, with Christmas crafts, face painting, Santa Claus photos, cookie decorating, carol singing, and even a treasure hunt on Banff Avenue.

Then join the crowds beneath the festive lights along Banff Ave. for the Santa Claus Parade at 6 p.m.

Saturday Nov. 29 – Saturday Dec. 6 2008

Every year, Banff and Lake Louise celebrate the start of winter with two weekends of events that are fun for both residents and visitors.

Christmas in the Rockies, Saturday December 6, 2 – 5 p.m.

Christmas in the Rockies is a family-oriented afternoon filled with holiday treats and a chance to meet Santa Claus. Bring the young ones to Cascade Plaza to enjoy…

• Christmas crafts
• Face painting
• Santa Claus photos
• Cookie decorating fun
• Carollers

Santa Claus Parade of Lights, Saturday December 6, 6 p.m.

Banff’s Santa Claus Parade is the perfect way to end a family day: lights twinkle under the Rocky Mountain sky, as a parade of holiday floats delights the crowds lining the streets of Banff Avenue.

Men’s World Cup Ski Races, Sat./Sun. November 29 & 30

Women’s World Cup Ski Races, Sat./Sun. December 6 & 7

At the World Cup alpine races in Lake Louise, the fastest skiers in the world hurtle down the mountain at speeds that easily top 100 kilometres per hour. Two thrilling weekends of men’s and women’s ski racing.

Source: Town of Banff

It’s early-season conditions. The Strawberry lift and two quads – WaWa and Standish are now in operation. More runs are expected open Saturday, as crews finish preparing runs.

It’s also a great time to stay on the mountain, at Banff’s only ski-in, ski-out hotel. The Sunshine Mountain Lodge, formally known as the Sunshine Inn, is offering discounted rates, with packages starting at $139 per person including next day skiing. Contact rocky-peak Ski Holidays for details on this and other ski specials!

To check on the current snow conditions for Sunshine Village, call the 24-hour snow phone at 403-760-SNOW (403-760-7669).

Happy skiing and riding!