Planning New Year's Eve in Banff or Canmore? Here Are 5 Picks We Actually Recommend

Trivia Night. If your ideal NYE involves laughs over loud music, trivia night at the Banff Legion is your move. Things get underway at 7 PM with teams of 2 to 12, themed questions, and prizes. It’s free, open to everyone, and kid-friendly until 9 PM. Pro tip: arrive early. The kitchen will be open.

Candlelit Dinner With Fancy Cocktails. Looking for cozy, indulgent, and just the right amount of fancy? Fat Ox is leaning into candlelight, table-side martinis, and a New Year’s Eve menu that includes scallop crudo with caviar, white truffle risotto, and beef tenderloin with lobster mashed potatoes. It’s a great fit for couples or anyone who wants to be well-fed and in no rush to leave.

Family Friendly Neon Light Tunnel Experience. From now until Jan. 3, the Canmore Recreation Centre football field transforms into a 100-foot immersive light tunnel. Walk through, interact, and watch the colours respond. All ages welcome, zero pressure, and very photogenic. A great kid-friendly activity best seen after sunset. 

Live Jazz and a Late Dinner. If you’re looking for something relaxed, Bankhead Restaurant is hosting the local jazz band, Exit 91. Late-dinner seating begins at 9:30 PM, with guests seated at that time for a special four-course menu featuring crab salad, bison ravioli, Alberta beef striploin steak, and chocolate cake. A good option for people who want to enjoy music at their table. Call 403-679-1771 for reservations.

Open Your Own Champagne Bottle With a Sword. Banff Social is hosting a four-course Western Canadian dinner, plus the option to open your own champagne bottle tableside using a ceremonial blade, with staff guiding the moment. Two seatings are available from 5 to 7:30 PM or 7 to 9:30 PM. A solid pick for anyone looking for dinner that feels special without being over the top.