Few places carry the holiday magic of Whistler Village at Christmastime. Get in the spirit this season in a snow-covered village beneath twinkling lights and festive events. Read our top picks for holiday events in Whistler this year.
Nov. 29-Jan. 8: Festival of Trees
Each year, the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler transforms into a lush, indoor forest of spectacularly decorated trees for the annual Festival of Trees. The free event is open to visitors and benefits BC Children’s Hospital. Visitors can make donations in way of a vote for their favorite tree. It’s the unofficial kickoff to the Yule season in Whistler and is sure to get you in the holiday mood.
Dec. 21-Jan. 5: Whistler Holiday Experience
Take the kids to an indoor family-fun zone at the Whistler Holiday Experience. Held at the Whistler Conference Center, this free event offers a miniature golf course, table games, bouncy castles, crafts and video games over Christmas and the New Year. Parents can sip coffee or hot cocoa in the lounge while the kids play. The hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., but the experience is closed Dec. 25; and only open from noon to 7 p.m. on Dec. 31.
Family Apres
Celebrate a great day on the slopes with a Family Apres, held each Monday and Wednesday starting Dec. 9 at Whistler Olympic Plaza. Kids can participate in a variety of activities including snow sculpting, ice skating, musical and dancing performances, face painting, hula hooping, characters in costume, arts and crafts, popcorn, hot chocolate and s’mores, and more. Adults can enjoy a warm beverage while the kids play.
Dec. 16: Ski with Santa
Hundreds of skiers dressed as Santa and Mrs. Claus take to the slopes on Dress Like Santa Day. Whistler Blackcomb gives complimentary lift tickets to the first 100 people in full Santa attire. The meeting spot is at 7:30 a.m. at Merlin’s patio at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. Or head to the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain to catch sight of all those Santas making the run.
Dashing Through the Snow
A sleigh ride through the snow is like something straight out of a Christmas movie. Choose a Scenic Mountain Sleigh Ride for the whole family or a Private Mountain Ride for an unforgettable, romantic experience. Both offer amazing views of the lights of Whistler Village, as well as a short stop at a cozy rustic cabin to warm up by the fire and sip hot cocoa. Sleigh Rides run from Dec. 15 to April 1.
Take a Spin on the Ice
Make your own holiday magic at the outdoor ice-skating rink at Whistler Olympic Park. Ice is free to use; rental skates are available for $6. Open Dec. 8-March 31 (weather dependent) from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Fire and Ice
See a dazzling display of skiing and snowboarding skills during the free Fire & Ice Show, held each Sunday, December through March at Skier’s Plaza in Whistler Village. Whistler's top skiers and riders spin and twist through a burning hoop. Dress warmly and grab a hot drink. Start times include a half-hour of practice prior to the show.
Whistler Gingerbread House
It’s the next best thing to visiting the North Pole. The Whistler Gingerbread House, located in Creekside Village, offers plenty of holiday spirit with tasty holiday treats, gift wrapping and photos with Santa. Open noon to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 8-8 on weekends.
Dec. 24: Christmas Carol Service
In its 35th year, the Christmas Eve Carol Service at the Westin Resort & Spa has become a Whistler holiday tradition. The service includes traditional carols, choral music by a choir and readings by community members telling of the birth of Christ.
Of course, there's all the skiing, snowboarding, tubing, nordic skiing, and other outdoor activities you can fit into the busy schedule as well. Choose Whistler Blackcomb for your holiday, then leave the lodging details to us.