Skijoring and snow sculptures: SnowDays Festival returns to Banff, Lake Louise

A couple explores the snow sculptures at SnowDays 2023 in the Banff townsite. (Will Lambert Photography)

Banff and Lake Louise are preparing to once again host SnowDays, an annual festival celebrating mountain culture and Canadian sports.

This year, SnowDays will run from Jan. 17 to Feb. 2, featuring several different events including skijoring and ice sculpting.

On Jan. 18 and 19, visitors to Banff can watch Skijor Canada team teams race along a 160-metre track created along Banff Avenue.

The horse, rider and slider will show off their style and speed – reaching up to 50 km/h.

As for the ice sculpting, a total of seven snow carvings will be available for viewing in downtown Banff's Central Park and along Bear Street.

Live snow carving will take place from Jan. 17 to 20, with the completed work on display from Jan. 24 to Feb. 2.

The festival will also have a Play Zone operating at Central Park, with activities for kids of all ages.

In addition, hands-on crafts and activities will be available along Bear Street for the Weekend of Wonder on Jan. 24 to 26.

Over at Lake Louise, visitors are invited to head to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for Ice Magic, a five-day ice carving festival from Jan. 29 to Feb. 2.

Guests staying in participating Banff hotels will have access to a complimentary shuttle service to the event from the Lake Louise Ski Resort.

Banff and Lake Louise Tourism spokesperson Kristina Macdonald says the festival is a great reason to head out to the mountains for a visit.

"With so many free activities available, it offers great value," she said.

"Gather the family and enjoy a wide range of winter experiences."

For more information on SnowDays you can visit banfflakelouise.com.