The quintessential Christmas town, Whistler is about as good as it gets during the holidays. The adornments and festivities are so vivid, copious and bright that one may mistakenly think they are at the North Pole. Our twinkling town puts on quite a doo, with fun things on tap for all ages. Below is a breakdown of some of the holiday's best this year...
November 25 - late March
11 AM – 8:30 PM daily (closed 1:30-2:30, 5-6, for zamboni)
Each winter a special ice skating rink opens in Whistler Olympic Plaza, where you can go ice skating in the heart of Whistler Village with views of the surrounding mountains, the Olympic Rings and thousands of twinkling, festive lights. Skates are available for rent.
Ski Day with Santa
December 15
Garibaldi Lift Co
Dress like Santa and Mrs. Claus and bring the festive fun to the slopes. Skiers and riders of all ages are invited to put on their best Santa or Mrs. Claus ensembles to spread Christmas cheer around Whistler Blackcomb. In return, a free lift ticket is gifted to the first 100 people to arrive at the Garibaldi Lift Company at the base of Whistler Mountain, in full Santa or Mrs. Claus attire. All participants upload the Whistler Village Gondola at 8 AM, then ski or ride to the bottom of Emerald Express for a group photo. Please note that lift tickets are only awarded to the first 100 in line, and not everyone is guaranteed a ticket.
December 15
7 - 9 pm
Whistler Public Library Fireside Lounge
Join Whistler’s favourite characters for a dramatic reading of Charles Dickens’ holiday classic in everyone’s favourite living room, Whistler Public Library’s Fireplace Lounge. Slip comfortably into the spirit(s) of Christmas and become children once again as you listen to one of the most cherished Christmas stories. Pajamas optional. This event is free to attend, but donations to the Whistler Food Bank are encouraged. Registration is required.
December 17 - 31
Conference Center
Free
The ultimate winter wonderland experience awaits you this holiday season. Wintersphere celebrates this magical time of year with festive activities for the entire family! Join in the fun with visits from Santa, entertainers, a holiday café*, kids crafts, Wintersphere's signature holiday maze and much more. This spectacular, festive pop-up is a true holiday favourite for locals and visitors alike. (*Café open from 11 AM to 3 PM daily.)
Whistler Racket Club
December 22 | December 29
8pm
The Whistler Racket Club presents LAUGH OUT LIVE, a special sneak preview of Resting Grinch Face! A VIP live performance for WRC members and friends from Dave Francis, Ira Pettle and Rebecca Mason. Holiday food and bar specials from 6:30 PM & free popcorn. Tickets are $25 and include a festive welcome treat.
Whistler Public Library
December 24
6 - 7:30pm
The Whistler Children's Chorus and Whistler Singers are excited to be back in person for the 39th Annual Christmas Eve Service of Lessons & Carols! Join them for this long-running tradition to enjoy selections from the Whistler Singers and Children's Chorus, readings from familiar community members, and to sing along to your favourite carols. This year's event looks a little different as it takes place at Whistler Public Library, so space will be limited. Doors open at 6 PM and seating is first come, first served.
December 31
Whistler Village
A full-day of entertainment and activities that wraps up with a celebration in Skiers Plaza that includes a special edition Fire & Ice Show, early countdown and a dazzling fireworks display. A schedule of events is coming soon. No need to drive – take free public transit within the Village from 6 PM to end of service. More information can be found on the Resort Municipality of Whistler website.