It's the end of January, and thus the end of the Jasper in January festival.
This first weekend itinerary , or scroll down to get your plan for the second weekend itinerary. This sample itinerary doesn’t cover everything (check out the full event listing for that) but it’ll get you to some of the top highlights while maximizing your time and seeing as much of Jasper as possible.
So without further ado, here’s a preview of your future memories for Thursday, January 23 to Sunday, January 26. Book your winter getaway now.
All weekend long
Pond Hockey Tournament
Play hockey as it deserves to be played at the Jasper Pond Hockey Tournament. Happening on Lake Mildred at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, this challenge will bring Canada's favourite game to one of Canada's most scenic venues. Cheer on the sidelines or sign up to be among the 20+ teams that will compete.
Thursday, Jan. 23
Morning– Look Into The Past
See Jasper through the lens of photographer Harry Rowed, from 1939 to the 1970s at the As It Was photography exhibit located at Jasper-Yellowhead Museum. Presented by Harry’s son, Scott Rowed, who was born and raised in Jasper.
Afternoon – Poutine Showdown
Don’t miss this self-led adventure dedicated to Canada’s favourite comfort food. Multiple restaurants in Jasper will be creating their own unique and delicious takes on poutine, with an eye towards being crowned the best in town (vote online for your favourite; winner will be announced at the annual Street Party on January 27). We recommend hopping aboard this gravy train with a group so you can share dishes and thus try more before tapping out.
Evening – Taste of Jasper
Get a taste of Jasper at Terra, where you can enjoy the farm-fresh dish of the night and a backdrop of local live music.
Or, join the Jasper Whiskey Social Club for their inaugural meeting where you'll explore, learn about, and appreciate fine whisky. Presented by Liquor Lodge and Maligne Range Distilling.
Friday, Jan. 24
Morning – Wildlife Tour
Part of the reason Jasper was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site is because of the many wild animals that call it home. Go looking for some of Jasper’s most famous furry residents (like moose, elk, and wolves) with a 9am to 12:30pm wildlife tour from SunDog Transportation and Tour Co. Going with a guide ensures you stay safe, learn lots, and have a greater chance of spotting animals without having to worry about driving yourself.
Afternoon – Festival of Galaxies
At the Jasper Planetarium's seventh annual January extravaganza! Get either the Planetarium experience or the Telescope + Planetarium combo. This year the astronomy experts will be highlighting quasars: the most distant objects in the observable universe. From the stunning spiral arms of the Whirlpool Galaxy to the massive core of the Andromeda Galaxy, you’ll have the chance to see these ‘cities of stars’ at their best, all through the most powerful telescopes in the Rockies. Start times range from 4:45 to 7:45.
Evening – Winemaker's Dinner
Enjoy an extraordinary five-course dinner at Aalto, complete with curated wine pairings, live music, and complimentary shuttle service for a seamless, worry-free experience. This 18+ event begins at 6:30 PM, a booking is required.
Saturday, Jan. 25
Morning – Learn Something New
Head to Andromeda Coffee for morning pick-me-up and make your own espresso or Americano! With guidance from expert baristas, you'll learn the craft of pulling the perfect shot of espresso.
Afternoon – Retro Ski Day
This festival was born as a ski celebration, and skiing is still a huge part of Jasper’s winter culture with Marmot Basin at its heart. This resort boasts the highest base elevation in Canada and panoramic views from all over the mountain. Lifts run from 9am to 4pm; don’t forget to take breaks through the day at one of the chalets. Today travel back in time with Retro Day. Enjoy a ski race featuring the most rad ski outfits and a DJ, free s'mores at mid-mountain, and Ski with Jasper the Bear.
Evening – Street Party and Fireworks
Get ready to break out your dad's neon ski suit and take over the streets of downtown Jasper. At the Annual Jasper in January Street Party, we’re going to party like it’s 1989 – the year this festival was born. Celebrate the lighter side of winter and relive the rad heyday of gnarly mountain ski culture.
This family-friendly event comes alive on Patricia Street with live music, a DJ, retro ski costume contest, s’mores lounge, ice bar, street performers, local market stalls, food venders and fireworks.
Sunday, Jan. 26
Morning – Waffle Wonderland & Cafe Cocktails
After a busy Saturday night, start your Sunday off right with a plate of freshly made waffles, topped with house made compotes and sweet sauces at Andromeda Coffee. Sip on boozy coffee creations that’ll warm you from the inside out, while enjoying the sounds of live, coffeehouse-style music.
Afternoon – Activities at Pyramid Lake
Nothing says winter quite like a sleigh ride with jingling bells. Cozy up as you are taken across Pyramid Lake by local experienced guides, and soak in the stunning views of Pyramid Mountain. Then lace up some skates (on-site rentals available) and head out onto stunning alpine ice with Jasper the Bear!
Evening – Film Screening
Head to the Jasper Museum for a special screening of Wild Aerial, a captivating short documentary that follows aerialist Sasha Galitzki on a breathtaking journey through Canada's iconic icebound landscapes. This family-friendly event kicks off at 5:30 p.m. and is free to attend, with beverages available for purchase at the cash bar.
This evening will also feature an introduction and Q&A with Sasha and Director Trixie Pacis.
