From festivals to wellness retreats or even luge lessons, and all the classic winter holiday events you’d expect in Whistler, here’s a quick highlight reel of what to look forward to in the upcoming winter season.
Holiday Markets
Arts Whistler Holiday Market, Nov. 25-26:
The Arts Whistler Holiday Market is a two-day extravaganza featuring vendors from the Sea to Sky region. Celebrating its 32nd year, it’s the perfect place to find unique, handcrafted gifts for your Secret Santa list. Plus, young entrepreneurs from Bratz Biz add a youthful spark to this artisan market.
Whistler Artisan Market, Nov. 26-27:
The biggest indoor market experience in our resort town, The Whistler Artisan Market is held at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, where you’ll discover unique collections and one-of-a-kind creations, including handmade jewelry, clothing, ceramics, fine art, artisan foods, and more. Come discover what our local artisans are capable of and support them in their craft.
Winter Bespoke Market, Dec. 9-10:
Get ready for a holiday shopping experience at the Winter Bespoke Market. This gathering of creative entrepreneurs showcases designers, small shop owners, and talented makers you’ve never heard of. Expect handcrafted jewelry, one-of-a-kind art, natural skincare, artisanal foods, fashion items, and home goods meticulously crafted for socially-conscious shoppers.
Christmas & New Year’s Celebrations
Wintersphere:
Step into the festive winter experience this holiday season with Wintersphere. Located at the Whistler Conference Center, this all-ages event offers something for the whole family. Meet Santa, enjoy stage & street entertainers, savor warm holiday treats, join in kids’ crafts, and explore Wintersphere’s signature holiday maze. It’s a heartwarming pop-up event where locals and visitors alike revel in the holiday spirit.
Christmas Caroling:
Give your vocal chords a stretch and share in the harmonious melodies and communal gathering of Christmas caroling. Local choirs, residents, and visitors fill Whistler Village and surrounding areas with the joyful sounds of the season. Traditional carol services are held at various venues, bringing people of all ages together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
New Year’s Eve:
Kick off New Year’s Eve at Whistler Olympic Plaza, where you can enjoy some ice skating with hot chocolate in hand, a snow-play zone, and outdoor entertainment in the afternoon. Head to the Whistler Conference Centre for some indoor activities, then ring in the New Year with the thrilling Fire & Ice Show at Skier’s Plaza, followed by a showstopping fireworks display.
WinterPRIDE and Ski Festival, January 21 – 28, 2024
Whistler proudly hosts the annual Whistler Pride and Ski Festival. In 2023, this queer-focused ski week celebrated its 30th year. Featuring skiing, snowboarding, celebrations, arts, culture, and social events for everyone, it’s one of North America’s biggest and best LGBTQ+ pride weeks.
Family Events
Fire & Ice Show:
Every Sunday night during winter, witness a spectacular display of skills at the legendary Fire & Ice Show in Skier’s Plaza. Top skiers and riders showcase their talent, jumping and flipping through blazing rings of fire, all set to an electric mix of music and cultural performances. The night concludes with a fireworks display—a thrilling evening of free, live entertainment for family and friends.
Culinary Events
Cornucopia:
For the food and drink lovers, Whistler’s annual fall festival, Cornucopia, is a must. Dive into food and drink tastings, culinary demonstrations, drink seminars, winemaker dinners, and more. It’s a chance to experiment with your palate, expand your knowledge, and celebrate Whistler’s world-class food and drink scene in the mountains.
In Whistler, this winter season promises an abundance of festive joy, creativity, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these events are your ticket to making cherished memories in the snowy paradise of Whistler.
Contact Aloha Whistler to book your accommodations early and have these exciting events marked on your calendar.
