5 Whistler Winter Events & Activities You Don’t Want to Miss
Nestled in the Coast Mountains at the base of two world-class ski-hills, Whistler is the North American mecca of winter activities and events. There’s always something on the go whether it’s Whistler’s signature annual events, daily live music, vibrant festivals, or sporting events — something for everyone’s diverse taste.
Keep reading for the ultimate list of 22/23 Whistler winter events and activities you don’t want to miss!
1. Whistler Pride & Ski Festival – January 22-29, 2023
The Whistler Ski & Pride Festival has become one of the largest queer-focused ski weeks in the world. It started out in 1992 as a small weekend gathering of gay ski-enthusiasts, and has developed into an unparalleled mountain experience with world-class festival programming.
Over the course of the week, enjoy a mix of ski & ride groups on resort during the day, lively après events and a wealth of culinary programming. All genders/gender expression & sexualities/sexual expressions are welcomed.
To learn more, visit our Whistler Events page.
2. Whistler Family Après – Every Monday & Wednesday
Get your snow gear, grab a sled and head on over to the Whistler Olympic Plaza for the annual free winter Whistler Family Après! Hosted every Monday and Wednesday, families can enjoy a variety of activities such as tobogganing, snowman building in the Snow Zone, and free ice skating on the outdoor rink under a festival of lights. There’s always something new going on, from face painting, to local arts and crafts, live performances, local bands, and more.
With plenty of snacks and drink options just steps away, the whole family can live it up in the heart of Whistler Village.
For more details about the weekly events, you can check in with the village hosts.
3. Whistler Blackcomb’s Fire & Ice Show – Every Sunday
Every Sunday evening, watch Whistler’s best skiers and riders hit big air jumps through burning rings of fire while doing flips and tricks, finishing the night with a world-class fireworks display. The Whistler Blackcomb annual classic Fire & Ice show has returned for the winter of 22/23!
This free weekly event takes place in the Skiers Plaza, Whistler Village base between Whistler and Excalibur Gondolas, and starts around 7PM. Bundle up, grab a tea or hot chocolate, and prepare for an unforgettable evening of first-class entertainment, music, dance and fire!
To learn more, visit the Tourism Whistler website.
4. Ice Skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza
The outdoor skating rink at Whistler Olympic Plaza is a beautiful setting to skate outdoors with your family and friends. Surrounded by the twinkling lights in the heart of Whistler Village and the iconic Olympic rings, skate rentals are available on a first come/first serve basis. With limited capacity on the skating rink, we encourage you to head over early, and bonus if you can bring your own skates and helmets.
If the ice is too busy, there are plenty of activities for the whole family in the adjacent Snow Zone to entertain while you wait your turn.
Visit the Resort Municipality of Whistler website for hours of operation, skate rental prices and the most up-to-date information regarding the facilities.
5. Peak to Valley Race – Feb 24-25
The Whistler classic Peak to Valley Race is the longest Giant Slalom race of its kind on the planet. Sponsored by Jackson-Triggs Estate Winery, this unique two-day event consists of teams of 4 (must be co-ed and over all must be 19 or older) that start on the Whistler Saddle and finish at Dusty’s in Creekside. An award ceremony is hosted at the Roundhouse Lodge where prizes and glory are awarded.
More details to come in the following months.
Visit the Whistler Blackcomb website for more information.
Ready to find your ideal accommodation for a Whistler Winter vacation? Explore our properties to find the perfect homebase and best deals for all your activity-fueled adventures!
