With the summer tourists gone and the ski season still a few weeks away this is a great time of year to head to Banff. It’s easy to forget the beauty of the town simply because during the high tourist season many of us avoid it.
Here’s a couple things to look out for.
Affectionately known as “The Castle” the Fairmont Banff Springs is in many ways the heart and soul of the town. Opened in 1888 the hotel’s history is rich in stories including ghost stories. On Thursday night The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies is hosting a cool Halloween lecture How haunted is The Fairmont Banff Springs? Presented by former bellman David Moberg the lecture is only $2 and will be sure to include the legends of Sam the Bellman and the dancing bride.
This weekend marks the beginning of the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival . The nine-day festival includes screenings of mountain films exhibitions and readings by adventure writers. This year’s festival also includes a lecture from the founder of the Central Asia Institute Greg Mortenson. The CAI is a non-profit that works to promote education and literacy in remote mountain regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Unfortunately the lecture and the simulcast of the lecture are already sold out.
As part of the festival the Mountain Art and Craft Sale takes place this weekend at the Eric Harvie Theatre and includes 31 artisans from Alberta and B.C.
For those who wish to immerse themselves in fine wine and food the Fairmont Banff Springs is hosting the 19th International Festival of Wine and Food . The three-day festival pairs some rare varietals with regionally inspired cuisine all at the majestic hotel. This year’s culinary special guest is Bruno Tison who was awarded a Michelin Star for his work at The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. If you go make sure to get to bed early — wine tasting starts at 9 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday mornings.
If beer’s more your budget make sure to poke your head into the recently opened Banff Ave. Brewing Company . Craft beer on Banff Ave — it’s about time.
Lastly if you’re into mountain culture but Banff isn’t in the cards for you Bow Cycle is hosting a lecture by Laval St. Germain the first Canadian to climb Everest without oxygen tank support. The lecture happens on Thursday November 4th at Bow Cycle and the $5 cover will go to charity.
