Banff's popular SnowDays Skijoring event has been cancelled for 2027, with organizers citing overwhelming popularity as the primary reason. The decision, announced by the event's organizing committee, came after record-breaking attendance in January 2026, when crowds swelled beyond what the venue could safely accommodate.
Event Draws Record Crowds
Skijoring, which involves skiers being pulled by horses or dogs over a course of jumps and obstacles, has grown rapidly in Banff over the past few years. The 2026 SnowDays event attracted an estimated 15,000 spectators, far exceeding the 10,000-person capacity limit set by the town. According to event organizers, the surge in popularity created safety risks for both participants and attendees, including challenges with crowd control, emergency access, and infrastructure strain.
“We simply became too popular for our own good,” said Sarah Thompson, spokesperson for the Banff Skijoring Association, in a statement. “Our priority is always the safety of our athletes, volunteers, and fans. After careful review, we concluded that we cannot host the event in 2027 without compromising that safety.”
Safety Concerns Drive Decision
The cancellation has sparked disappointment among local businesses and skijoring enthusiasts, but officials emphasize that the move is temporary. The organizing committee plans to work with municipal authorities and Parks Canada to explore larger venues or revised formats for future events. Banff Mayor Corrie DiManno expressed support for the decision, noting that “the event’s success is a testament to its appeal, but we must ensure it remains safe and sustainable.”
Skijoring has deep roots in Banff, having been a staple of the SnowDays festival since 2019. The event features professional and amateur skiers competing on a snow-covered track, with horses reaching speeds up to 40 km/h. The 2026 edition saw a 25% increase in participants compared to the previous year, further straining resources.
Impact on Local Economy
The cancellation is expected to have a financial impact on Banff, where the event typically generates over $2 million in tourism revenue. Local hotels, restaurants, and shops had already begun booking for the 2027 event. However, Thompson stated that the association is committed to finding a solution that allows the event to return in 2028 or earlier.
“We are exploring options such as moving to a larger venue or implementing ticketed entry to manage crowd size,” Thompson added. “We want to ensure that skijoring in Banff continues to be a world-class event for years to come.”
