The world’s most prestigious mountain film festival is bringing breathtaking adventure to Ottawa’s beloved ByTowne Cinema this January.
Get ready to be transported to the highest peaks and most remote corners of the planet without leaving your seat. The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour arrives in Ottawa for three unforgettable nights of adrenaline-pumping films, stunning cinematography, and stories that celebrate the human spirit of adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or simply someone who dreams of wild places, this event promises to ignite your passion for the outdoors.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour stops at ByTowne Cinema from January 25-27, 2026, featuring award-winning films about mountaineering, skiing, climbing, and environmental stories that showcase human adventure at its finest.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Dates | January 25-27, 2026 |
| 📍 Venue | ByTowne Cinema, Ottawa |
| 🎬 Content | Adventure and outdoor sports films |
| ⏰ Duration | Multiple screenings over 3 nights |
| 🎟️ Tickets | Available online and at venue |
About the Banff Mountain Film Festival
The Banff Mountain Film Festival originated in Banff, Alberta, and has grown into one of the world’s most celebrated celebrations of mountain culture and adventure filmmaking. Each year, filmmakers from around the globe submit their best work, competing for recognition at the main festival held in the Canadian Rockies.
The World Tour brings a curated selection of the most compelling films to audiences across 550 communities in over 40 countries. Ottawa is fortunate to be one of these stops, giving local adventure enthusiasts the chance to experience this cultural phenomenon without travelling to Banff.
The festival has been running for over four decades, building a reputation for showcasing films that push boundaries. From death-defying climbs to intimate portraits of Indigenous communities living in harmony with nature, the programming reflects the full spectrum of human connection to the mountains and wild places.
What Films to Expect
While the exact 2026 lineup will be announced closer to the event, audiences can expect a diverse collection of short and feature-length films covering multiple genres within the adventure space. Past World Tour programs have included:
Mountaineering and Climbing
Films documenting first ascents, speed records, and the personal journeys of climbers tackling some of the world’s most challenging routes. These stories often explore the mental and physical challenges of pushing human limits at extreme altitudes.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Breathtaking footage from backcountry descents in remote mountain ranges, capturing the artistry and athleticism of professional snow sports athletes. Expect stunning visuals of powder runs in locations most people will never see in person.
Environmental Stories
Increasingly, the festival features films addressing climate change, conservation efforts, and the impact of human activity on mountain ecosystems. These thought-provoking pieces add depth to the programming and spark important conversations.
Cultural Documentaries
Stories about mountain communities, traditional practices, and the people who call these rugged landscapes home. These films often provide intimate glimpses into ways of life that are disappearing or adapting to modern pressures.
Adventure Sports
Beyond climbing and skiing, expect films about kayaking, mountain biking, paragliding, and other pursuits that take athletes into spectacular natural settings.
The Venue: ByTowne Cinema
ByTowne Cinema stands as one of Ottawa’s most cherished independent theaters, making it the perfect host for the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour. Located in the heart of the city, this single-screen cinema offers an intimate viewing experience that larger multiplexes simply cannot match.
The theater’s commitment to quality programming and its welcoming atmosphere have made it a cultural landmark since 1947. Watching adventure films here feels like a community gathering rather than just a movie screening, with audiences often reacting together to the most jaw-dropping moments on screen.
The venue’s central location also makes it easy to combine your film festival experience with dinner at nearby restaurants or drinks at local establishments. Consider making a full evening of it by exploring the surrounding neighbourhood before or after the screenings.
For those new to the area, ByTowne Cinema can be found at 325 Rideau Street, easily accessible by public transit and with street parking available nearby. The theater’s modest size means seats fill quickly for popular events like this one, so early ticket purchase is strongly recommended.
Tips for Attendees
Book Early
The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour has a devoted following, and Ottawa screenings typically sell out. Purchase your tickets as soon as they become available to avoid disappointment.
Arrive With Time to Spare
ByTowne Cinema operates on a first-come, first-served seating basis for most events. Arriving 20-30 minutes before showtime ensures you get the seat you want and allows time to settle in.
Dress Comfortably
While the cinema is heated, you’ll be sitting for extended periods. Dress in layers and wear comfortable clothing to fully enjoy the experience.
Stay Hydrated
With multiple films screening back-to-back, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the evening.
Connect With Fellow Adventurers
The festival attracts outdoor enthusiasts from across the Ottawa region. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with fellow attendees—you might find your next hiking partner or climbing buddy.
Check for Multiple Programs
The World Tour often features different film programs on different nights. If your schedule allows, consider attending more than one evening to experience the full range of what the festival offers.
Why Ottawa Outdoor Enthusiasts Love This Event
Ottawa’s vibrant outdoor community has embraced the Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour as a winter highlight. The event arrives during the heart of winter activities season, providing inspiration for adventures closer to home and dreams of expeditions further afield.
The festival serves as a reminder of why we venture into wild places. Whether you spend your weekends cross-country skiing in Gatineau Park, ice climbing in the Outaouais, or simply walking the trails along the Ottawa River, these films celebrate the same impulse that drives you outdoors.
Many attendees leave the theater with renewed motivation to plan their next adventure, whether that’s tackling a local hidden gem they’ve overlooked or booking a trip to experience the mountains featured on screen.
FAQ
Q: How long are the film programs?
Each evening’s program typically runs 2-3 hours, featuring a mix of short films and one or two longer pieces. The exact runtime varies by year, but you can expect a full evening of entertainment.
Q: Are the films suitable for children?
Most films are family-friendly, though some may contain mild language or intense action sequences. Parents should use their judgment based on their children’s sensitivity to adventurous content. Children under a certain age may not be admitted to evening screenings.
Q: Can I purchase tickets at the door?
While door sales may be available if the event doesn’t sell out in advance, this is not guaranteed. The festival is extremely popular, and online advance purchase is strongly recommended.
Q: Is there parking available?
Street parking is available near ByTowne Cinema, and the venue is accessible by OC Transpo bus routes. The Rideau Centre parking garage is also within walking distance.
Q: What happens if I miss one night?
Different film programs often screen on different nights of the three-day run. Check the festival schedule to see if you can catch a different program on another evening.
Final Thoughts
The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour represents one of the best opportunities for Ottawa residents to experience world-class adventure filmmaking without travelling far from home. ByTowne Cinema provides the perfect intimate setting for these inspiring stories, and the January dates offer a welcome burst of adventure during the coldest part of winter.
Mark your calendar for January 25-27, 2026, and secure your tickets early. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer seeking vicarious thrills or someone who simply appreciates stunning natural cinematography, this event delivers. Check the Ottawa events calendar for ticket release dates and additional details as the festival approaches.
