The Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival is one of the most prestigious mountain culture events in the world. Held every fall, it draws filmmakers, adventurers, authors, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the globe to the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. Here's everything you need to know about attending.
What Is the Banff Mountain Film Festival?
Founded in 1976, the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival showcases the best films, books, and presentations about mountain culture, adventure, environmental issues, and outdoor exploration. Over nine days in late October/early November, the festival screens hundreds of films, hosts book readings, panel discussions, and presentations by legendary adventurers.
The festival also selects winning films that go on a World Tour, screening in over 550 communities across 40+ countries throughout the year.
Festival Highlights
- Film screenings: Short and feature-length films covering climbing, skiing, mountain biking, kayaking, conservation, and mountain culture from around the world
- Book readings: Authors share stories of adventure, exploration, and mountain life
- Speaker series: Renowned climbers, explorers, and athletes share their stories on stage
- Photo competition: Stunning mountain photography from the world's best outdoor photographers
- Community events: Outdoor industry meetups, networking events, and social gatherings
How to Attend
Tickets
Tickets go on sale in early fall. Options include:
- Individual screening tickets: $15-25 per session
- Day passes: Access to all screenings and events for a single day
- Festival pass: Full access to all nine days of programming — the best value for serious film fans
Popular screenings (especially the awards night and Grand Prize films) sell out quickly. Book early through the Banff Centre website.
The Venue
All festival events take place at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, situated on Tunnel Mountain overlooking the town. The Centre's theatres and event spaces are world-class, and the mountain setting adds to the atmosphere. Free shuttle service runs between the Centre and downtown Banff during the festival.
Combining the Festival with Banff
The festival's late October/early November timing coincides with:
- Late fall colours: Larch season may still be visible in early screenings
- Early snow: The mountains start their winter transformation
- Shoulder-season pricing: Accommodation and activity costs are at their lowest
- Elk rut: Bull elk may still be active in town
Between screenings, explore Banff's attractions. Book a guided tour or activity for the mornings before afternoon and evening film sessions.
Where to Stay During the Festival
- Banff Centre: On-site accommodation is available and puts you steps from every event
- Downtown Banff hotels: Free shuttle to the Centre; enjoy town restaurants and nightlife after screenings
- Canmore: 20 minutes away with even lower shoulder-season rates
Compare festival-period rates on Expedia.
The World Tour
If you can't make it to Banff for the festival, the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour brings the best films to cities worldwide from January through June. Check the World Tour schedule to find a screening near you — it's a taste of Banff mountain culture wherever you are.