As the 2025-2026 winter season draws to a close, Banff Sunshine in Alberta is preparing for a high-energy send-off. According to SnowBrains, the resort has scheduled a three-day festival for the Canadian May long weekend, featuring a mix of competitive terrain park events and the return of the fan-favorite Slush Cup.
Event Schedule and Competitions
The weekend kicks off on Saturday, May 16, with the SlushShine Rail Jam. Participants will have the chance to showcase their technical skills on rail features positioned over water. Registration for this event takes place at the Centennial Daylodge on the morning of the competition, with a fee of CAD 20. The action runs from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 17, shifts the focus to the Watergate Banked Slalom. This unique race incorporates banked turns and park features, challenging riders to balance speed with style. Entry is also CAD 20, with a similar afternoon schedule.
The centerpiece of the weekend remains the annual Slush Cup on Monday, May 18. This tradition, which sees skiers and snowboarders attempt to skim across a freezing pond, is a staple of the Alberta spring scene. Interested participants must be at least 18 years old; registration opens at 8:00 a.m. in the Village Sprung Structure for a $50 entry fee.
Safety and Logistics
Safety remains a priority for the resort's closing events. Helmets are mandatory for all competitors. Additionally, the resort has explicitly stated that inverted tricks are not allowed during the competitions. For younger participants in the Rail Jam or Banked Slalom, a legal guardian must be present to sign required liability and photo release waivers.
A Record-Breaking Season
The 2025-2026 season has been exceptional for Banff Sunshine. The resort reported nearly 1,000 cm of total snowfall, significantly higher than its historical average of 600 cm. This heavy accumulation has left the mountain with a substantial base—approximately 222 cm at the summit and 162 cm at mid-mountain—allowing for a robust finish to the winter season.
Following the closing weekend festivities, the resort is not finished with the snow just yet. Banff Sunshine has announced plans to reopen for a brief summer skiing window from June 20 through July 5, providing an additional 16 days of riding to bridge the gap into the summer months.
