Banff's popular skijoring event will not take place next winter after organizers cited concerns over crowing noises that have drawn complaints from residents and local businesses. The decision, announced on June 25, 2026, marks an abrupt end to a tradition that had drawn thousands of spectators to the mountain town each January as part of the SnowDays festival.
Event Details and History
Skijoring involves a skier being pulled by a horse or dog team at high speeds over snow, often launching off jumps. The Banff event, held annually since 2020, had grown in popularity, attracting up to 10,000 attendees in 2026. The cancellation comes after the 2026 edition in January saw a significant increase in complaints about noise from the animals, particularly the crowing of roosters used in some performances.
"We have heard the concerns from the community and feel that cancelling the event is the responsible step to ensure the peace and enjoyment of Banff residents and visitors," said a spokesperson for Banff Lake Louise Tourism, which organized the event. "The crowing, while part of the spectacle, has become a point of contention, and we want to respect the local environment."
Community Reaction and Impact
Local businesses that relied on the event's tourism boost expressed disappointment. "It's a big loss for us. The skijoring brought in a lot of customers during a slow winter month," said a Banff hotel manager. However, some residents welcomed the decision. "The noise was unbearable, especially early in the morning," said a local resident who lives near the event site. "It's good to see the organizers listening."
The cancellation is expected to result in an estimated economic impact of $500,000 in lost revenue for local businesses, according to a preliminary analysis by the Banff Chamber of Commerce. Organizers are exploring alternative winter events that could replace skijoring without the noise issues.
Future of Skijoring in Banff
Banff Lake Louise Tourism stated that the cancellation is for the 2026-2027 winter season only, and they will review the event's future after consulting with community members and animal welfare experts. "We are committed to finding a solution that balances tradition with community comfort," the spokesperson added. "This is not necessarily the end of skijoring in Banff, but a pause to reassess."
