Rediscover Jasper in January, now lighter and brighter than ever

Get ready to celebrate the best that winter has to offer. For three decades, Jasper in January has been the nexus of joyful mountain culture and having good times in any weather. This year, we invite you to rediscover this playful festival with the help of your favourite seasonal activities, now featuring some fresh new twists.

With a ski season that stretches from November to May and thousands of frozen lakes offering up mountain views to skaters and snowshoers, there’s never a bad time to plan a winter escape to Jasper National Park. But one of the best times to toss some layers in the car and book it to the Rockies is during the last three weekends of January.

The Jasper in January festival is known for its great ski days, lively après scene, and deals on multi-day stays (peep these cozy cabin vibes). There's enough comfort food and libations to keep the fun going long after the ski lifts have been tucked in for the night. And despite January’s (unfair) reputation for feeling drawn out and dark, the festival actually falls on the happy side of the winter solstice, when the days get longer and the sun glints brighter off the snow. So go ahead. Grab your toque and celebrate the lighter side of winter.

What to expect this year

Days filled with outdoor adventures on the trail, the ski hill, the hockey pond. Evenings spent unwinding fireside, with a pint of something tasty in hand. Afternoon après at whatever time you want.

Events and activities will mostly happen on the Thursday/Friday/Saturday/Sundays that fall within January 13 – 29, either in downtown Jasper, at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, on Pyramid Lake, or out by iconic landmarks around the national park (think Maligne Canyon, Marmot Basin, etc).

Signature events to look out for

Take the family for a memorable outing at the Pyramid Lake Winter Fete. Test top gear, learn avalanche safety and more at Marmot Basin. Lace up and put your game face on for the Jasper Cup: Pond Hockey Tournament.

Tickle your taste buds at food & bevvie events like Whiskey, Wine and Hops, Wine O'Clock, Mountain Malanka and Poutine Showdown. Celebrate at the always-a-good-time Street Party + Fireworks Show. Let loose with live music at the After Dark events.

Discover some otherworldly natural ice sculptures on a guided Ice Walk down Maligne Canyon. See Jasper’s wildest inhabitants during a Winter Wildlife Tour. Try snow on two wheels on a Fat Bike Tour.