🤷‍♂️Locals or Tourists—Who Pays?

Good morning, Bow Valley!

Wow—Monday’s poll got a huge response, and the verdict is in: 78% of you want more food & drink content! We’ll start finding more specials, but we’ve got another idea, too—a Food Quest, where we explore, rank, and report on the best bites in town. Should we do it? Vote in the poll at the end of today’s newsletter. If there’s not enough interest, we’ll scrap the idea and move on!

In today’s Bow Valley Insider:

• Canmore may increase parking fees & the ped zone might get a facelift 

• The Bow Valley was one of the coldest places on Earth this week

• Canmore looks to boost funding for several local organizations

• Plus, cheap ski tickets, paint & wine night, folk fest, & more!

Let’s get to it!

— Fortune Whelan & Ben S.

Want to advertise to Bow Valley locals? Learn more.

TOURISTS FOOT THE BILL? CANMORE CONSIDERS PARKING FEE HIKE

What’s Happening? Canmore’s peak season parking rates could climb to $5 an hour. The town’s finance committee recommended the increase, which would apply from May 15 to Oct. 15. If approved, this would be a jump from the current $3-$4 hourly rates. The decision is set for council approval on Feb. 11.

Why the Hike? With Canmore’s streets originally designed for horse-drawn carriages, the town is trying to manage traffic while generating revenue. Paid parking has proven to be a cash cow, bringing in $2.5 million in 2024, with most of that coming from visitors. Officials argue that increasing fees will fund transit improvements, including extending the Grassi Lakes route year-round.

What About Locals? Residents will still get three free hours of parking per day if they register. Free parking remains available in residential zones near paid parking areas, and local public transit is free.

What’s Next? Budget approval will determine if the increase goes through. Meanwhile, discussions on commercial paid parking are on hold until more data is collected.

LOCAL HOST FAMILIES NEEDED FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Finding housing in the Bow Valley is tough, but imagine trying to do it from overseas. Every year, families around the world seek a Canadian homestay for their teens to attend school here—and right now, there aren’t enough hosts.

Canadian Rockies Public Schools’ International Student Program is critically short on host families for the 2025-26 school year.

If you're unsure, temporary respite hosting lets you try it out. No experience? No problem. You’ll be guided through the process every step of the way.

Hosts receive $1,300/month, plus access to group activities and meaningful cultural connections.

Curious what hosting is like? Watch this short video featuring past hosts and students. Learn more on our Homestay Website or apply now.

Your home could make all the difference–reach out today! 🙏

_{*Presented by CRPS International Student Program}

THE DIGEST

• 🥶Alberta just landed on the global deep-freeze leaderboard. On February 10, High Level was the sixth coldest place on Earth at -36°C, while Bow Valley ranked ninth at -35°C. Red Deer, Sundre, Drumheller, Coronation, and Slave Lake weren’t far behind. 

• 🐶Seasonal workers come and go, but some leave a lasting impact. Elissa, who spent the past year volunteering at the Bow Valley SPCA, boarded a plane back to Australia this week—but the dogs she cared for won’t forget her. She’s heading home inspired to continue shelter work, proving goodbyes aren’t always the end.

• 🚶Canmore’s pedestrian zone might get a facelift in 2025, with Council set to vote on $37,000 for enhanced entryways. The seasonal Main Street closure has been a hit since its 2020 launch, and officials want a more aesthetic and functional gateway. If approved, funding comes from the Town’s economic development reserve.

• 🙌With $200,000 in provincial funding, Diamond Valley, Cochrane, and the MD of Bighorn are launching an emergency preparedness project to unify training, resources, and response strategies. 

• 🤝Canmore’s creative scene is making international connections. Jeremy Elbourne, Executive Director of artsPlace, is visiting Sedona, Arizona, alongside cultural leaders from Poland to explore artistic collaborations. As Canmore’s designated 'Friendship City,' we share a strong commitment to cultural exchange.

WHO’S GETTING A RAISE? CANMORE ALLOCATES MORE FUNDING FOR 2025

What’s Happening? Canmore is set to boost funding for several local organizations in 2025 and 2026, but not everyone is getting what they asked for. The Canmore Museum saw its request for a major budget increase scaled back, while other groups, including the Canmore Public Library and Bow Valley SPCA, are in line for modest funding bumps.

Museum’s Budget Gets a Trim. The Canmore Museum requested a hefty jump from $242,653 to $345,000 in 2025, but council is recommending a more modest increase to $252,116. With declining grant funding, museum officials say the increase isn’t about expansion—it’s about survival.

Who’s Getting More?

• Bow Valley SPCA: Up from $10K to $15K for rising operational costs.

• Canmore Public Library: $1.044M recommended for 2025.

• artsPlace: Requested $300K (from $260K last year).

• Downtown Canmore BIA: Seeing a jump from $130K to $230K.

What’s Next? Council will finalize funding in the next budget vote.

THINGS TO DO

Wednesday

• Coffee Business Connector. A chance to network, talk about business, collaborate on ideas, and connect over coffee. 14 spots available. Registration required. 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM. Ken Hoehn Gallery, Canmore. Free. 

• Carpool & Ski Cheap. Carpool to the mountains and split the cost of a single lift ticket based on the number of people seated in your vehicle. Season pass holders in your car count. 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Mt Norquay.

• Death, Tea, & Cake. Banff Public Library is hosting a Death Café, offering a safe space to talk about everything related to death. Expect open conversations, good company, and, yes, cake. 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM. Free. 

• Grand Re-Opening! Rundle United Thrift will be open to customers today! After nearly a year closed, head down for the basement bargain prices we all love! 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Rundle Memorial United Church, Banff. 

• Chili Night. Every Wednesday is Community Chili Night. Enjoy your chili served with sourdough, cheese, and sour cream. 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Wild Flour, Banff. $6 per bowl. 

• Author Visit. In recognition of National Heart Month, Steven Kelly will be presenting his recent memoir, "Stroke of Luck: My Life in Amateur Athletics." 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM. Canmore Library. Free.

• Craft Night. Bring your own craft projects to work on…colouring, crochet, linocuts, embroidery, doodle, etc. It’s up to you! Light snacks and non-alcoholic refreshments will be provided. 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Canmore Together. Free. 

Thursday

• Galentine's Day Paint and Wine Night. Have a fun night with friends and learn new techniques. Supplies, refreshments, snacks, and transportation are provided. 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM. Listen Studios, Canmore. $55 / person. 

• Sutta Contemplation. Join the Canmore Theravada Buddhist Community to contemplate a sutta (a discourse of Buddha) using prompting questions in an interactive format to cultivate inspiration. 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM. Online. Free.

• Poker Night. Come play Thursday night poker at the Canmore Legion with a fun group of regulars. Enjoy great eats from Avi's Kitchen and refreshing beverages. New players are welcome. 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Canmore Legion.

• Toastmaster’s Meeting. Join the Mountain Mumblers for the opportunity to refine your public speaking and leadership skills. 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM. Pocaterra Inn. Free to Attend. 

• A New Way to Meet New People. Join CYAN for a fun and relaxed evening of speedfriending! Whether you're looking to expand your circle or make new friends, this event is for you. 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Sheepdog Brewing. By Donation.

COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS

• ⛷️Fun or Competitive Cross Country Ski Race. Save big—Early Bird ends Feb 14! Secure your spot in the Lake Louise Loppet before prices go up. Pick your distance and enjoy a day of cross-country skiing in one of Canada’s most breathtaking locations! More details or sign up.

• 📥Accepting Donations for a Grand Re-Opening. Rundle United Thrift in Banff is open and accepting donations after last year’s fire.

• ✂️Moving into Staff Accommodation. The ribbon cutting at Spring Creek’s new staff accommodation was big news last month, but as of last week, there are actual human occupants!

• 🍻Happy Hour Prices All Month! The lounge at the Canmore Legion has expanded their hours with a new opening of 11 AM to 10 PM close, six days a week from Tuesday to Sunday. To celebrate, the Legion will be offering Happy Hour prices for all of February!

• 📝Early Bird Registration Open. The 21st annual Canmore Hospital Foundation Charity Golf Tournament is officially open for registration. Register early for only $950 per team or $250 per player. 

• 🎸Folk Fest Warm Up. Shake off the frost at The Warm Up, Canmore’s mid-winter, multi-genre music festival brought to you by the Canmore Folk Music Festival in partnership with the Town of Canmore and Howl. 

• 🎗️Walking Fundraiser. The Homeless Society of the Bow Valley is excited to announce the third annual Coldest Night of the Year family-friendly walk, taking place on February 22. This event is not just a walk; it's a heartfelt journey to raise funds for individuals facing hurt, hunger, and housing insecurity in our community. 

• 🗓️Canada’s Ultimate Challenge. Save the date (March 6th) to cheer on Canmore local Mark Manysiak on CBC.

• 🎨HeARTburn Interactive Art Exhibition. Following the first principle of The Burning Man Project, ‘Radical Inclusion,’ all are welcome to come and participate. This exhibition invites viewers to express and engage with the artwork. Opens Friday.

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT: BOW VALLEY NATURALISTS.

The Bow Valley Naturalists are a group of nature enthusiasts who live in the Bow Valley and have been active in learning about local ecosystems and advocating for their protection for over 50 years. They acquire and disseminate knowledge on natural history, host events, inform the public about environmental issues, and advocate concerns to the government.

CIVIC NEWS

• Canmore may conduct its first municipal census since 2014, pending council approval of $105,000. With the town’s rapid growth—15,990 residents in 2021, up 14.3% from 2016—the data would refine planning, funding, and service decisions beyond federal stats. Officials say the timing aligns with the 2026 federal census, but it could shift to 2028 if needed. 

• Canmore’s New Year’s Eve fireworks may have lit up the sky for the last time. Council is considering a light installation show as a replacement, with $30,000 proposed for 2025. Unlike fireworks, a light installation could run for weeks, offering longer-lasting community engagement. Opponents question costs and clarity on the final concept, while supporters see the potential for sponsorship and new traditions.  

LIVE MUSIC

• Wednesday, February 12th, 2025, 10:00 PM: DJ Nazo Location: Rose and Crown, Banff. No Cover. 

• Thursday, February 13th, 2025, 7:30 PM: Old Man Luedeke. Location: artsPlace, Canmore. Regular $35 / members $29.75 / youth $17.50

• Thursday, February 13th, 10:00 PM: Dean Lonsdale. Location: Rose and Crown, Banff. No Cover. 

• Thursday, February 13th, 10:00 PM: Average Citizens.  Location: Melissa’s MisSteak. $14. 

SPORTS

• XC Skiing. Williams Lake’s Anika Wallin is making strides on the world stage. Competing in her first major international cross-country ski race in Italy, she finished 32nd out of 75. Now training in Calgary and Canmore with the Alberta World Cup Academy, she’s balancing elite skiing with an engineering degree at U of C.BODY TEXT

THE BOW VALLEY FOOD QUEST

Here’s the plan: We’re diving into the Canmore & Banff food scene to find the best local eats—starting with either a Pizza Quest or a Burger Quest (you decide).

Once we lock in the food category, you’ll tell us where to go. We’ll visit the top spots, eat our way through the contenders, and deliver the final rankings.

So, what’s it gonna be—pizza or burgers? Vote in the poll and drop a comment!

That’s all, folks!

We’ll see you back here on Friday, same time, same place!