Alive and Abuzz - Whistler's Vibrant Arts Scene

The heart of Whistler was buzzing during February 2010 with music, live art, street performances and a diverse line-up of free entertainment celebrating athleticism, arts and culture. Stilt walkers, clowns and acrobats, dance crews, storytellers and live paintings by local artists Chili Thom and Vanessa Stark animated Whistler’s pedestrian-only stroll during the day, while each evening the Fire & Ice Remix lit up Whistler’s night sky.

For 12 years, the Fire & Ice show has been dazzling visitors each Sunday with thrilling displays of pyrotechnics and fearless athletes flipping and twisting through a ring of fire. During the Games, the Fire & Ice show got pumped up and super-sized to become the Fire & Ice Remix.

This family-friendly on-mountain snow show featured world-renowned DJs spinning tunes while fire dancers and athletes displayed their talents with hot moves and big air. The combination of skiing, snowboarding, dancing and music created an Olympic-sized celebration.

On display at 43 host “gallery” locations throughout Whistler was Whistler Live! ArtWalk. Showcasing works by local artists and artisans, Games-time visitors got the chance to discover and purchase these works during the 2010 Winter Games. The program was based on the popular Artwalk program run by the Whistler Arts Council every summer. Journey on a free, self-guided walking tour of high-traffic venues including cafés, retail outlets, hotels and restaurants, where you can admire extensive works of art including painting, photography, multi-media, fibre arts, sculpture, pottery and jewellery. Participating ArtWalk venues host free opening receptions at the beginning of July and August, where art and business create social gathering spaces with live music, interactive creations, live painting and a variety of entertainment. Free art tours are offered twice a week and are led by the local artists themselves.

The Whistler Street Entertainment that was animating the Village Stroll during the Games, is also a Whistler staple. Free, family-friendly events, attractions and performers are a regular part of the Whistler Village scene on weekends from May through September.

A strong arts and culture community means there's always something engaging happening in the resort. From celebrations and festivals to special parties and international events, Whistler offers a unique and entertaining mountain culture year-round. Perhaps it's the combination of a relaxed lifestyle and inspirational natural surroundings, but Whistler attracts more than its share of highly creative artists and artisans, writers, musicians, filmmakers, photographers and fashion designers. The resort is home to numerous art galleries, studios and eclectic events that celebrate Whistler's unique local talents.