Banff recently hosted its SnowDays Skijoring weekend in 2026, attracting approximately 10,000 attendees. The overwhelming turnout has prompted local residents to call for significant changes regarding the management of future events.
Transportation and Parking Challenges
The influx of visitors resulted in considerable transportation and parking issues for the town. According to the Mayor’s office, more than 240 parking tickets were issued over the weekend, alongside numerous towed vehicles. A staggering 24,000 vehicles entered Banff last Saturday alone, setting new records for both arrival and departure times.
Fastest-Growing Winter Sport
Skijor Canada has identified skijoring as the fastest-growing winter sport in North America. While precise attendance metrics are challenging to assess, the organization reported that local hotels sold out during the event. However, some residents, like Quinn Simpson, expressed concerns about the event’s size.
- “They definitely need to have less people and more control,” Simpson suggested.
- “Perhaps introducing a ticketing system, like $20 per person, could help manage numbers.”
Banff tour guide Shak Kalantzis voiced her frustration, noting, “Skijoring was crazy. It took about 10 minutes to walk from the visitors center across the road.”
Future Management Solutions
In response to the challenges, Banff’s Mayor, Corrie Dimano, indicated that all management solutions are being considered. Potential measures include:
- Implementing transportation options such as park-and-ride services.
- Transitioning to a ticketed event for better capacity control.
- Relocating the event away from Banff Avenue to other areas in town.
Despite the logistical challenges, Dimano acknowledged the skijoring event’s positive impact on the local hospitality sector. She highlighted its role in promoting Banff as a winter destination during the typically slower tourist season.
Extension of Destination Event Ban
Following the event, Banff Town Council voted to extend its ban on large destination events. This extension will now be in effect from May through Thanksgiving. The town aims to regulate attendance and maintain a balance between promoting tourism and ensuring community comfort.
The Skijoring weekend showcased the need for careful consideration of future events to balance enjoyment for visitors and the well-being of the residents of Banff.
