Located in the heart of Canada’s majestic Rocky Mountains, Banff, Alberta, is a stunning vacation destination that has everything you’re looking for in your next vacation. World-class restaurants, a seemingly endless list of outdoor activities, and community events with mass appeal all draw travelers to the area on a regular basis.
The Banff Christmas Market has established itself as one of the best Christmas markets in Alberta in just its third year. The event takes place at Warner Stables, within the beautiful confines of Banff National Park. Patrons will love the wide selection of gifts for sale from 60 vendors that include clothing, handmade art, home furnishings, cleaning products, jewelry, health food items, and much more. The event is perfect for all ages with kids enjoying an opportunity to meet and get a photo taken with Santa, or take a sleigh ride. We got the chance to interview Jolene Brewster, Event Manager, to talk about this Christmas shopping extravaganza.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
JB: This is the Banff Christmas Market’s third year.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
JB: This year we are going to have close to 60 vendors. That is nearly double the vendors from last year.
RAL: What is the typical demographic makeup of the event? Children? Families? Couples?
JB: We see everyone at the market. Especially ladies who are enjoying a fun weekend of getting their Christmas shopping done!
RAL: What makes this event unique?
JB: The Banff Christmas Market is a one of a kind shopping experience. Attendees will find unique fashions and handcrafted gifts along with live entertainment and fantastic food. Banff is a place where beauty, nature, culture, and adventure combine to create magical holiday moments. Bring your mother, daughter, husband, and best friend, and join us in beautiful Banff National Park.
RAL: What activities will patrons find at the event?
JB: We offer a unique holiday shopping experience with excellent foods, plenty of drinks, photos with Santa, and sleigh rides (if the weather cooperates).
RAL: Will there be any guest appearances?
JB: Santa Claus will be there all day Saturday!
RAL: What dining options will attendees encounter?
JB: We will have two cappuccino bars set up offering lighter treats. We will also have Rockies Hogroast providing roasted turkey buns and other hot filling menu items.
RAL: What is the environment like?
JB: The environment is a festive holiday market. Warner Stables at Banff National Park is a beautiful location for our event.
RAL: What can attendees expect to find for local lodging?
JB: Attendees will have no trouble finding lodging. Banff National Park offers superb accommodations to fit everyone’s needs from the Banff Springs hotel to quintessential B&B’s.
RAL: Does the event support a particular cause in the community? (School funds, etc.)
JB: We work with Santa’s Anonymous to help raise donations, and we help support the Banff Hockey Academy.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
JB: People who attend will experience a truly magical Christmas moment in the mountains. The Banff Christmas Market is an unbeatable experience.
For more information about the Banff Christmas Market, please visit their website.