If you’re coming for adventure, WFF is the perfect complement to your vacation or weekend escape. Catch a film lineup of Oscar contenders, the best in Canadian cinema and award-winning stories from around the world. This year the festival has 20 world premieres, 17 Canadian, eight Western Canadian and 13 BC premieres right here in Whistler Village, with the majesty of Whistler Blackcomb in the background.

Picture the red carpet experience and resort-style after-parties with the filmmakers themselves, many of whom will participate in audience Q&As after screenings, masterclass sessions and talent talks (more on those below). There’s also the Opening Night Reception on December 2, Filmmaker After Party on December 4, and the Awards Ceremony on December 5.

Opening & Closing Night Movies at WFF 2026

Opening Night Movie: Ray Gunn

6 PM Wednesday, December 2 & 10 AM Thursday, December 3 at The Rainbow Theatre (Whistler Conference Centre, WCC)

Two-time Academy Award-winning director Brad Bird (The Incredibles, Ratatouille, The Iron Giant) is bringing his retro-futurist noir animation Ray Gunn to the mountains (note: this is not a family movie).

Welcome to Metropia, a sprawling city of the future as imagined from 1939. Humans and aliens share the streets, flying cars clog the skies, and everything has a price. Private eye Ray Gunn (Sam Rockwell) is an old-school detective in a world that has moved on without him. He and his loyal partner, a cyclopean alien named Eye-Ra (Tom Waits), get pulled into the orbit of controversial megastar Venus Nova (Scarlett Johansson). The case is the biggest of Ray’s life, and it drags him from the city’s glittering heights to its slimy underbelly, where money, fame and survival are dangerously intertwined.

Bird is one of the few filmmakers to conquer both animation and live action. Beyond creating global family favourites, he’s also responsible for blockbusters Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol and Tomorrowland. He has worked with studios including Pixar, Disney, Netflix, Paramount and Skydance Animation.

Closing Night Movie: The Lightkeeper

6:30 PM Sunday, December 6 at The Rainbow Theatre (WCC)

A Canadian-Irish co-production, The Lightkeeper is set on Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast in 1924. Lighthouse keeper Seamus Óg MacGrianna (Dominic Cooper) guides ships safely through the night but has lost his own sense of direction. Bound to ritual, he tends the garden of the home he once lived in and rows into the mist each morning, listening for the call of the fabled Each-Uisce. His solitude begins to crack when Edith (Sarah Gadon), an American searching for closure, arrives. Meanwhile, a hard-line priest (Aidan Quinn) challenges his way of life and his devoted housekeeper, Máire (Sarah Bolger), struggles to protect him from himself.

Directed by acclaimed Canadian filmmaker and cinematographer Vic Sarin (Partition, A Shine of Rainbows) from a screenplay by Ciaran Creagh, The Lightkeeper is a story of grief, love and finding a way forward.

More Movies to Look Out For at Whistler Film Festival 2026

Man in Motion: The Rick Hansen Story

5:45 PM, Thursday, December 3, Maury Young Arts Centre

Hansen is a Canadian Paralympian and activist. Paralyzed in a truck accident at 15, he went on to become a world-class wheelchair athlete. Between 1985 and 1987, he wheeled more than 40,000 kilometres through 34 countries on his Man In Motion World Tour to raise awareness of the potential of people with disabilities and to raise funds to remove barriers and inspire a more accessible and inclusive world. He later founded the Rick Hansen Foundation.

Man in Motion: The Rick Hansen Story is directed by Adrian Buitenhuis and produced by Ryan Reynolds and Derik Murray. It revisits the 26-month tour through rare archival footage, never-before-seen 35mm homecoming footage from 1987 and Hansen’s personal audio diaries, shared publicly for the first time.

“Bringing this film to Whistler on December 3, the United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities, feels especially meaningful,” said Hansen. “From the lead-up to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to hosting the Invictus Games in 2025, Whistler has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to identifying accessibility barriers and making progress year after year. That spirit reflects the message at the heart of this film: progress is possible when people come together, challenge perceptions and work together to remove barriers.”

How We Stand

3:30 PM, Friday, December 4, Maury Young Arts Centre (MYAC)

How We Stand, written, produced and directed by Marie Clements, is inspired by the 1950s Native American Relocation Program. It follows an Oklahoma mother and her three young daughters who move to Los Angeles. When a tragedy splits the sisters apart, they reunite 20 years later on very different paths. The film blends institutional trauma with magical realism and stars Amber Midthunder, Alyssa Wapanatâhk, Isabel DeRoy-Olson and Cara Jade Myers.

Clements is a Métis/Dene filmmaker whose award-winning work includes Bones of Crows. Her projects have screened at Cannes, TIFF, MoMA, VIFF, the Whistler Film Festival, American Indian Film Festival, and imagineNATIVE. She received the WFF Women on Top Award in 2018, along with the 2019 Telefilm Canada Birks Diamond Tribute and the DGC Impact Award.

Queens For A Day

5 PM, Saturday, December 5, Rainbow Theatre (WCC)

Queens For A Day will have its BC premiere at WFF. The self-financed feature comes from director Chris Carter, working with a largely BC-based X-Files crew, and is written by Carter’s wife, Dori Carter. 

The film follows a right-wing newscaster catapulted back into 1950s Queens, NY, forced to live her own mother’s life. The America she finds, and the cramped existence she can’t escape, unfolds as a horror-fable odyssey, made stranger still by the fact that she is now raising herself as a child she doesn’t particularly like.

“Being able to bring Queens For A Day, a fully independent film that’s very near and dear to my heart, to audiences for its BC premiere at the Whistler Film Festival is especially meaningful to me,” said director Chris Carter. “I’ve considered British Columbia my ‘home away from home’ since first coming here in 1993 to film The X-Files, and it feels like a full-circle moment to return here, bringing together an entirely BC-based cast.”

Catch the Best of Canadian Film with the Borsos 6-Pack

At the heart of the festival is the Borsos Competition, WFF’s top honour for Canadian film. This year, 16 new Canadian features are competing for $40,000 in cash and prizes, including Best Canadian Feature, Best Director and Best Performance.

The lineup ranges from Back In Black (director Ron Murphy), a dark comedy starring Christopher Walken and Jane Curtin, that follows a family mortuary that boosts business by nudging the local death rate, to Smudge the Blades, about an Indigenous U18 hockey team fighting for one last season, to the disturbing Insectasy (director Angus Silver), where a woman’s secret erotic obsession with insects starts to take on a life of its own.

Mountain Culture: Stories From the Edge

If you came to Whistler for the mountains, the Mountain Culture program was made for you.

These films celebrate adventure, resilience and wild places, including The Ascent, about double amputee Mandy Horvath climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on her hands; The Lost Cache, which follows skiers and scientists into the Yukon to recover legendary mountaineer Bradford Washburn’s camera equipment, lost on a glacier for more than 80 years; and The Ultra Runner, about a Romanian ultramarathoner racing from prison toward redemption.

Three short programs round things out, covering everything from Indigenous land stewardship to big lines, bold moves and the occasional questionable decision.

Sea to Sky: Stories From Our Backyard

For a true taste of local life, don’t miss Sea to Sky: Stories From Our Backyard, sponsored by Whistler Blackcomb. Five short films celebrate the people and places that make the corridor from the North Shore to Whistler one of the world’s great outdoor playgrounds.

In Formline, two Indigenous women connect Northwest Coast art with big-mountain snowboarding. Haven follows a woman who finds trail running after years of addiction and sets her sights on Squamish’s 50K ultramarathon.

Canadian climber Alannah Yip faces an unexpected diagnosis while training for the Paris Olympics in Hello, Beautiful, and mountain biker Harriet “Haz” Burbidge-Smith plots her comeback after a broken neck in Return to Something. Plus, The Guidebook asks whether sharing wild places with the world helps or hurts them.

Catch them all on Thursday, December 3 at 8:30 PM at the Maury Young Arts Centre, the perfect way to cap off a day on the slopes.

Signature Series Masterclass and Talent Talks

George Stroumboulopoulos returns to host three scintillating conversations, sitting down with The X-Files creator Chris Carter (Queen for a Day), Marie Clements (How We Stand) and Rick Hansen (Man in Motion: The Rick Hansen Story) for candid discussions about their careers and creative choices. All Signature Series events take place at the Maury Young Arts Centre.

“Three very different people have used actions and stories in their own ways to move us in remarkable fashion,” said Stroumboulopoulos of the Signature Series. “I’m always thrilled to be back in the mountains sharing these conversations with you.”

• Man in Motion: The Rick Hansen Story | Talent Talk |  1:30 to 2:30 PM, Thursday, December 3, International Day for Persons with Disabilities | MYAC
• How We Stand | Masterclass | 1:30 to 3 PM, Friday, December 4 | MYAC
• Queens For A Day: Masterclass | 12:30 to 2 PM, Saturday, December 5 | MYAC

Family Programming at WFF 2026

The Morning Fuzzies are relaxed, family-friendly weekend screenings, where lights stay partly up, and the sound is turned down. There are no loud trailers, and you can talk, wiggle, step out and come back whenever you need to (strollers welcome).

• Northern Tails: On The Air (director Daniel Little). A hilariously clueless crew of ground squirrels explore the wonders of the boreal forest in this fun-filled, family-friendly “best of” compilation from Season 2 of the Yukon-made TV series Northern Tails. This screening is on Saturday, December 5 at 3 PM at the Aava Whistler Hotel in the Peak Room and is free/by donation (register for a ticket).
• The Bryce Lee Story (director Arnold Lim). A 13-year-old newcomer from Hong Kong becomes the coolest kid in school by claiming he’s related to Bruce Lee. Lim is an alum of the 2025 WFF Screenwriters Lab. This screening is on Sunday, December 6 at 10:30 AM at the Maury Young Arts Centre.

Whistler Film Festival Shortworks

Fifty shorts from Canada and around the world, including 12 by British Columbian student filmmakers, are brought together in six programs. These films range from first-time filmmakers to multi-award-winning artists, starring emerging talents and Canadian darlings such as Heated Rivalry’s Hudson Williams and Orphan Black’s Tatiana Maslany.

1. The Graduates: Twelve B.C. student filmmakers, from Indigenous westerns to animated adventures, compete for the Best BC Student Short Award. 

2. In The Darkness, There Is Light: Seven cinematic studies on light, darkness and the human condition. 

3. A Voice: Nine fantastical films that explore the power in what is said, unsaid, and sometimes sung. 

4. The Dark Side Of The Snow Cone: Seven strange, slightly unsettling shorts that will have you looking under your chair. 

5. Tell Me, Tell Me: Eight Campbell-ian heroes journey through insemination, optometry offices, parking dispensers, and one terrible birthday dinner. 

6. Drama. Period: Seven shorts that live in a time outside our own, places we’ve never seen and build worlds bigger than Bridgerton. 

The WFF Content Summit Focuses on Industry

The WFF Content Summit showcases transformative ideas shaping the future of screen entertainment. The four-day industry immersion is an inclusive, progressive and inspiring environment for industry professionals to network, collaborate and connect. 

This year’s summit pairs Signature Series Masterclasses and Talent Talks with panels, 1:1 Market Meetings and roundtable discussions for industry pass holders. Confirmed industry guests available for one-on-one Market Meetings and roundtable discussions are listed on the Industry Guests page.

Whistler Film and Event Tickets + Passes

Choose from a variety of ticket options, including movie ticket packs available in three, six, 10 and unlimited.

There are also industry passes, which give you access to the Content Summit, film screenings, parties, 1:1 meetings, après sessions and workshops like the Masterclasses.

“More than anything, we want the festival to be a place where filmmakers, industry professionals and audiences come together, share experiences, make connections and enjoy some great cinema,” says Robin Smith, director of programming for WFF.

What To Do When You’re Not Watching a Movie

The beginning of December is a great time to be in the mountains. Skiing and snowboarding have just started, the festive lights are twinkling, and activities are opening up for the winter season. Read more in Whistler in Early Winter.

Stretch Your Legs: Skiing, Winter Walks & Ice Skating

After sitting still, enraptured in the latest blockbuster, you might want to stretch it out on a winter walk. Depending on snowfall, you could try one of the routes suggested in our Walking in Whistler’s Winter Wonderland blog, opt for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, ice skate in Olympic Plaza, or, of course, get a few ski laps on Whistler Blackcomb (opening day is slated for November 20, 2026).

Find More Culture at the SLCC & Audain Art Museum

Visit the Audain Art Museum and take in their permanent collection featuring works from BC artists like Emily Carr. A trip to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is always something we suggest. Connecting with the Cultural Ambassadors as they guide you through the centre is a great way to learn about the richness of First Nations’ traditions and culture in the Sea to Sky.

Relax at one of Whistler’s Spas

Another way to enjoy the mountains is to relax in them. Head to the Scandinave Spa for a few rounds of hydrotherapy and a soothing massage. Before the film fest parties, you could treat yourself to a body wrap, facial, manicure, or pedicure at one of Whistler’s spas.

Indulge in Award-Winning Dining

If you’re heading out for dinner pre- or post-movie, then you have a lot of options near the Whistler Conference Centre, the hub of the festival. For fine dining, there’s Araxi, Bearfoot Bistro, Il Camineto and Wild Blue. And for a more relaxed vibe, there’s The Mexican Corner, Sushi Village, Stonesedge Kitchen and Earls.

If you’re looking for coffee or lunch in between flicks, then head to Forecast, Flute & Fromage, or Moguls Coffee House. And for a casual place to compare movie notes, do that over a beer or glass of wine at The Beacon or Dubh Linn Gate. Take a look at our dining guide for more ideas.

Editor’s Note: This blog was written by Kirsten Andrews, Marketing & Communications Manager at the Whistler Film Festival, and updated by Whistler Insider editor Dee Raffo. 

The post Whistler Film Festival 2026: Movie Magic in the Mountains appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

The 30^th edition offers 11 days of tantalization. Spread across venues throughout Whistler, the festival features more than 100 events, ranging from tastings and drink seminars to winemaker dinners, culinary demonstrations and parties. It beckons visitors and locals alike to savour and relish what promises to be another unforgettable feast for the senses.

For Starters: How Whistler Cornucopia Began

“Cornucopia was created as a way to showcase Whistler’s food and beverage scene,” relays event co-director Jasmine Robinson. “What began as a relatively small food-and-wine festival has evolved considerably over nearly three decades into one of Whistler’s signature events.”

Robinson reflects fondly on how Cornucopia has expanded from its roots to embrace beer, spirits, cocktails, Indigenous and regional cuisine, comedy, entertainment and more. The mouthwatering festival has become much more than just eating and drinking, growing into a broader celebration of food, wine, hospitality and, most importantly, the people behind it.

The people behind the extravaganza include, but are not limited to, the chefs, sommeliers, servers, brewers and distillers, fermenters, foragers, industry experts and curious connoisseurs. 

Who Goes to Whistler Cornucopia?

Cornucopia attracts a mix of Whistler locals and visitors, including food lovers travelling from the Lower Mainland and Washington specifically for the festival. With everything from educational drink seminars and intimate dinners to large-scale tastings and parties, you can build an itinerary around how social, educational or indulgent you want your experience to be.

The age range is mixed, and a tell-tale sign of success is that the festival welcomes returning event-goers year after year; repeat customers ready to sink their teeth into the abundant offerings.

Enter the Entrée: What’s Happening at Cornucopia 2026

Cornucopia kicks off the winter season in savoury and sweet style! This year’s 30^th anniversary celebrations take things a few steps further, impressive for a festival that successfully evolves and extends its programming each year (there are more than 100 events this November).

What’s New for Cornucopia’s 30th Anniversary?

There are two events celebrating Cornucopia’s 30th anniversary, set to honour all the aspects of what Cornucopia has come to be: a festivity of feasting with descriptors that range from vibrant to adventurous, social to creative, educational to energetic, and indulgent.

There’s the 30th Dinner with Reception on Friday, November 6, which starts with a wine tasting reception followed by an unforgettable multi-course dinner featuring exceptional culinary talent, thoughtfully selected pairings and stories from the festival’s past and present. Raise a glass to the chefs, producers and food lovers who have shaped three decades of Cornucopia, and to what comes next.

And on Saturday, November 14, celebrate 30 years of Cornucopia at a glamorous, high-energy Gala inspired by the Horn of Plenty, with abundant food, exceptional drinks, live entertainment, music and dancing. Embrace the Greek-inspired theme and raise a glass to three decades of chefs, producers and guests who have helped make Cornucopia what it is today. There’s also an early-entry option that includes a mini-feast!

Must-Try Cornucopia Events

With more than 100 events on the 2026 program, there’s no single way to experience Cornucopia. These are some of the signature experiences and event formats to look for:

• CRUSH Grand Tasting — the flagship large-scale tasting and one of the festival’s longest-running favourites
• Culinary Stage Series — chef-led demonstrations and tastings: similar to a live cooking show where guests get to try the food!
• Drink Seminars — educational tastings covering wine, spirits, beer and cocktails
• Winemaker Dinners — intimate multi-course dinners paired with wines and featuring winemakers and producers
• BC House Party — a lively opening celebration showcasing BC food and drink
• Night Market — a more casual, social format combining food and beverages with a themed experience
• And the various restaurant and bar events that allow guests to experience Whistler’s dining scene during the festival

Event directors note that they intentionally balance crowd favourites with added annual diversified programming to honour the events people love while continuing to introduce new experiences.

How to Arrange the Courses: Planning Your Cornucopia Experience

There’s no single way to experience Cornucopia. Tickets are sold by event, so you can build a festival itinerary around your interests, budget and length of stay. And there are many to choose from; view the Festival Program here.

“Guests can create their own itinerary based on their interests,” Robinson explains. “You might start with a morning culinary demonstration, head to a drink seminar in the afternoon, have a winemaker dinner that evening and finish the night at one of the festival’s larger social events.”

There are also different scales of experience. The large signature events take place in venues such as the Whistler Conference Centre, while restaurants, hotels, bars and other venues throughout the Village host smaller, more intimate events.

Cornucopia is essentially a ‘choose your own adventure.’ You can dip into Cornucopia for one night or build an entire Whistler getaway around the 11-day festival – variety is a huge part of the appeal.

And for Dessert: Cornucopia’s Impact on Whistler

Whistler transforms during Cornucopia. There is a buzz in the Village as restaurants, hotels and venues come alive. A feeling of excitement fills the air, floating on the wonderful aromas wafting across town. But perhaps the best flavour and lingering taste of note is that Cornucopia’s positive impact on the local economy and community extends beyond the 11 days.

Local charities benefit from the festival each year, one of the best takeaways from the food and drink festival of plenty. Cornucopia is steeped in a tradition of sharing, and this year it’s supporting the Whistler Community Services Society.

With something for everyone, come break bread with others, share in the communality and community of food and drink appreciation with friends new, old and yet-to-be-made: celebrating an autumn of abundance at Whistler Cornucopia.

The post 30 Years of Cornucopia: Whistler’s Festival of Food and Drink appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

When: October 9 to 11, 2026

Where: Whistler Village / Whistler Conference Centre

What: Films, speaker events, sports workshops, gear expo

Who’s it for? Everyone

Event Schedule & Tickets: whistleroutdoorfestival.com

We touched base with Sam Waddington, founder and owner of Mt. Waddington Outdoors and the Whistler Outdoor Festival, to find out more about the festival and what makes him so passionate about starting this new event in Whistler.

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What Should People Expect at the Whistler Outdoor Festival?

A welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

The schedule is packed from top to bottom; there’s more to do than you’ll have time to do, and it’s going to be hard to choose between these events. You’re going to dive in on Friday night and not pop out until late Sunday. This will be the best of the outdoor industry and what Whistler has to offer.

We want this to be a festival that is for everyone, from mountain professionals to the uninitiated. The speaking panels are with high-profile athletes and academics, working at the highest level. They’re covering interesting and compelling topics that will engage hardcore users and industry professionals as much as they will fans who watch these sports.

We want to take the “airs” away and get rid of what’s intimidating about outdoor sports and activities – we want everyone to feel like a local when they leave.

Where did the idea for the Whistler Outdoor Festival come from?

We’ve always been interested in community events. We run the Mountain Town Series and Dawn Patrol, and those gatherings show the stoke we bring to the community.

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We noticed a gap in the calendar in the fall for a celebration of the outdoors, which is why most of us are up here in the mountains. We wanted to produce something that was general and inclusive, while showcasing everything Whistler has to offer.

Why is this festival important to you?

I am privileged to be deep in the outdoor industry; I get to chat to these people- athletes, academics, product designers- but most people don’t get that opportunity. They are super interesting, and we want to make that more accessible. 

My team and I put ourselves in our customers’ shoes and think: What do they want to go to? What would we want to check out? We want to make the best elements of the mountain community more accessible to the general public, bring those cool conversations and discussions to the main stage.  

What are you the most excited about?

The speakers and panels. I think these will be the gem of the festival. All day Saturday and Sunday, we’re working with Protect Our Winters Canada (POW) to curate a spectacular lineup with environmental activists, leaders, athletes, etc. There will be people with adversarial conversations, and we’re going to get into it. Things like: What’s the future of access to recreation in BC? People are going to go toe-to-toe; those are the takeaways you’re going to remember.

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Another thing I’m excited about is seeing the latest and greatest gear. The Whistler Outdoor Festival will be the first place in the North American marketplace where we see some of the new releases, from skis to transceivers, climbing gear and equipment to the latest running clothing.

The Whistler Outdoor Festival Schedule at a Glance

The Whistler Outdoor Festival packs plenty into three days, with a mix of films, outdoor activities, workshops and events happening throughout the Village, making it easy to move between activities on foot. Check individual event listings for specific venues and meeting locations.

Friday kicks things off with Whistler Blackcomb’s HOME film premiere and after-party, before the festival gets into full swing on Saturday with morning activities, the Basecamp Expo, workshops and the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour.

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Sunday starts with the Whistler Turkey Trot, followed by another day of activities, the Basecamp Expo and hands-on workshops. Check the festival schedule for the latest additions and updates.

Whistler Outdoor Festival Tickets

You can buy tickets to individual events and workshops or purchase the three-day Ultra Pass, which gets you access to everything, or the Core Pass, which is everything happening on Saturday, October 10.

Sam Waddington: From the Aleutian Islands to Chilliwack to Whistler

Sam Waddington grew up in Chilliwack, about 100 kilometres (62 miles) east of Vancouver. Known for its agricultural lands, the city is sandwiched between two rivers and surrounded by tall mountain peaks. Sam believes Chilliwack is an underrated and emerging outdoor haven and not the “smelly farming town” people sometimes perceive it to be.

His father was a vet, and his mother was a teacher and marine biologist, and they were into adventure travel, so Sam learned to sail, climb, hike and raft from an early age. They sailed in North America, the Pacific and the South Pacific Islands, and it’s no wonder that Sam developed a keen sense of adventure. After five seasons of tree planting in Northern BC and Alberta, Sam felt a call to the wilder side of life.

“I’m always seeking the edge of the map,” laughs Sam. “I’d watched the movie, Into the Wild, which is set in Alaska and decided to visit my uncle who lived there at the time.”

Sam would take bush planes to remote locations in central Alaska via a hunting outfitter. During one winter, he travelled to the Aleutian Islands and challenged himself to spend a month alone in the wilderness (where he learnt a lot about frostbite). He then travelled to places with very little tourism infrastructure, including the Sahara Desert, Sierra Leone, the Middle East and Egypt. Each place taught him something new, but one thing was for sure: you had to pack right.

But each time he prepared for his travels, and also when he was exploring closer to home, Sam often couldn’t find the gear or advice he needed. So, at the age of 22, in 2012, he opened his own store in Chilliwack called Mt. Waddington Outdoors with the goal of providing the gear and expertise needed to explore the surrounding backcountry.

Adventurer to Store Owner

“Stores can be a gateway to adventure,” explains Sam. “They can be a cultural hub, where people can get advice on what gear they need for their particular adventure. I see them as an essential service.”

Sam started with a small, lean team, looking at established stores like Robinson’s Outdoor Store in Victoria and Escape Route in Whistler for what he wanted to create.  In 2020, with his established background in wilderness guiding and wanting to share his adventure experiences, Sam launched Ascent Fraser Valley Guides and Mountain School.

At the age of 24, Sam ran for Chilliwack’s City Council and served a four-year term, both at the City and the Fraser Valley Regional District. He was also elected to the Board of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, where he represented BC for two terms. During this time, he met and befriended Jack Crompton (Whistler’s current mayor), and Whistler trips became more frequent.

When the opportunity came up to buy Escape Route in Whistler, Sam jumped at the chance. He understood that Escape Route was not only an established business but a valued community member.

“You might cater to a lot of tourists, but if you don’t have the loyalty of the locals, you’re going to fail,” Sam explains. “You earn that by creating value, by being the place that carries the gear tape, that hosts clinics and film nights, and becomes a go-to for adventure-based advice.”

Escape Route was going through tough financial times, and Sam was hoping to come in to help keep the business alive as it stood. He worked with the team for two years to make that happen; however, they couldn’t make the finances work, which meant the end of one locally grown outdoor store, but room for the expansion of another.

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In December 2024, the doors to the second Mt. Waddington Outdoors store opened, with some familiar Escape Route faces on the team.

“Whistler needs a gear store,” says Sam. “It already has amazing guiding outfits, but you need to marry that expertise with equipment, and that’s where we come in. We started our Dawn Patrol ski touring program to bring people together – one morning we had 60 skiers skinning up Blackcomb as the sun began to rise.”

Mt. Waddington also puts on backcountry rescue clinics and speaker nights throughout the year. They’ve sponsored and hosted the Banff Film Festival in Whistler and Squamish, with proceeds going to the local schools’ leadership programs for students looking to explore the backcountry, as well as to the Spearhead Huts Society.

The Whistler Outdoor Festival has been something on Sam’s mind for a while, and it’s incredible to see the lineup of events landing this fall. See you there!

The post Whistler Outdoor Festival: Schedule, Events & What to Expect appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

“We wanted Cornucopia’s 30th edition to have a festival lineup that feels worthy of the milestone,” says Jasmine Robinson, Event Director of Cornucopia. “We’ve woven special touches throughout the program, including new experiences created specifically for the 30th and fresh takes on signature events and festival favourites. We’re excited to make this milestone edition one to remember.”

The Four Categories of Whistler Cornucopia

The events are split into four categories: Cornucopia’s Signature Events, Food + Drink Seminars, Culinary Stage Series and Restaurant + Bar events, with tickets starting at $32 (early bird). Although there is always something delicious and fun happening throughout the festival, the larger events are on Thursdays and over the weekend (go on, extend that weekend), with mid-week a great option for the more intimate events, and good value on accommodation.

Most of the events happen at the Whistler Conference Centre in the heart of Whistler Village, a central location with lots of accommodation options nearby.

Tickets sell out fast for the key events, so let’s dive into each of these Cornucopia categories and see what’s on the menu at Whistler’s festival of food + drink.

What’s New at Whistler Cornucopia for 2026

On Tuesday, November 10, renowned plant-forward Chef Wolfgang Sterr will lead a new environmentally conscious dinner highlighting the best of vegetarian cuisine paired with organic wines.

Also joining the program is Brunch League on Sunday, November 15, a lively, new karaoke brunch inspired by Belfast Brunch, a viral social brunch concept that has made its way to Canada from the UK and Ireland.

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The festival is expanding its programming throughout the week, with additional midweek dinners and drink seminars, creating more ways to experience Cornucopia beyond its signature weekend events (read on for more details on those).

Cornucopia Signature Events

Thursday, November 5

The festival kicks off with the BC House Party, a mix of live music, local cuisine and wine, spirits, beers and alcohol-free options from British Columbia. Indulge in a dinner buffet inspired by the West Coast, offering up coastal flavours and comforting favourites alongside fresh, innovative creations. Meet the makers and taste the ingenuity that has helped establish the West Coast as one of Canada’s most exciting food and beverage destinations. This perennial sellout event is the perfect way to start your weekend early.

Friday, November 6

SPECIAL FOR 2026: The 30th Dinner with Reception honours three decades of remarkable chefs and the people who helped transform a grassroots Whistler celebration into one of Canada’s most anticipated food and drink festivals. The evening begins with a premium wine tasting reception, with a curated selection of wines from British Columbia, the Pacific Northwest and renowned wine regions around the world.

Then it’s an inspired multi-course menu, with curated wines and beverages, celebrating Cornucopia’s past, present and future. Each course tells part of the festival’s story, revisiting the ingredients, ideas and personalities that have shaped its history while introducing fresh perspectives on what comes next. Expect exceptional food, meaningful storytelling, genuine hospitality and a few memorable surprises along the way.

Saturday, November 7

The flagship event of Cornucopia, CRUSH Grand Tasting, invites you to sip, sample and savour your way through a variety of BC, Canadian and International wines. These exceptional wines are complemented by delicious culinary bites from talented chefs and food producers, adding another layer of flavour to the evening. Live entertainment and the energy of fellow food and wine enthusiasts create a lively, celebratory atmosphere worthy of Cornucopia’s 30th anniversary.

Sunday, November 8

We’re all donning headphones and choosing our own DJ adventure at With a Twist: Silent Disco. Flick between three different DJs (dance anthems, throwback favourites and party classics) and dance the night away while sampling cocktails and spirits from featured bartenders and beverage partners (alcohol-free options available).

Do you like a good whodunnit? Savour a sumptuous dinner with paired wines served with a side of suspense at the Murder Mystery Dinner. Hosted at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler this year, it’s usually themed, so get your tickle trunk out for a night of entertaining drama.

Thursday, November 12

At the Comedy Kitchen, award-winning comedian Damonde Tschritter is leading a lineup of nationally acclaimed comedians serving their best material in a classic comedy-club setting. The first Canadian to win the Seattle International Comedy Competition, Damonde has appeared at Just For Laughs, the Chicago Comedy Festival and New York Comedy Festival, as well as on CBC, CTV and HBO. 

Expect sharp observations, great storytelling and the kind of candid comedy best enjoyed with friends and a drink in hand. Your ticket includes one drink, but there are more on offer to purchase.

Friday, November 13

Nightmarket: legends & Next Gen brings established culinary icons together with a new wave of emerging chefs educated at BC’s own LaSalle College. Move through a bustling market-inspired setting filled with tasting stations, live culinary energy and an exciting mix of flavours. Celebrated chefs and producers will share dishes and drinks that reflect their experience, traditions and signature styles, while rising talents bring fresh perspectives, techniques and ideas inspired by the evolving landscape of Canadian cuisine.

Saturday, November 14

For this milestone year, the festival pays homage to its namesake: the cornucopia, or Horn of Plenty. Rooted in Greek mythology and long associated with abundance, harvest and feasting, the Cornucopia Gala: 30th Edition is a celebration worthy of the gods. Don your finest toga and get ready to mix and mingle at this non-seated, party-forward gala. Sip from an impressive selection of wines, sparkling pours, cocktails, spirits and creative alcohol-free options, and dine on delicious bites, and celebrate three decades of Cornucopia in spectacular Greek-inspired style.

Sunday, November 15

NEW for 2026 is the Brunch League on Sunday, November 15. This is where weekend brunch meets your favourite singalong, with an irresistible combination of brunch bites, music, singing and dancing.

Cornucopia Food + Drink Seminars

There are 40 seminars on offer featuring wine, spirits, beers and more, done in an intimate setting with world-class experts. These seminars are all about deepening your knowledge and refining your palate with experts to guide you. You could be intrigued by a certain country, region or varietal, a particular libation or want some drink suggestions for the upcoming festive table.

You can take a deep dive into wines from different places like Italy, France, Spain, South America and Canada, of course. You can focus on a varietal like Chianti, White Burgundy, and Syrah or go for a session that showcases a few, like Classic vs Contemporary, Legends + Next Generation and Around the World in 90 Minutes.

It’s also not all wine, with sessions delving into Great Scotch Whisky, Caviar and Spirits with Copperpenny Distilling Co., and Japanese alcohol. There’s also a seminar, Free Spirit Whistler!, that’s dedicated to non-alcoholic options.

We also like the food-paired seminars like Wine + Dumplings Around the World, French Wine + Charcuterie with Oyama Sausage Co. and Sake, Shochu + Snack Attack!. We also noted the British Columbia events highlighting areas like Naramata in the Okanagan and Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island.

The seminars are your chance to learn something new while sipping on something fun, so make sure you take a look at the drink seminar event page and pick some that stand out to you.

Culinary Stage Series – The Hidden Gem at the Festival

If you’ve ever watched a cooking show and wished you were one of the judges testing the delectable outcomes, the Culinary Stage events are for you (minus the stress of actual judging). Set in the airy and light foyer of the Whistler Conference Centre, you get to absorb tips and tricks from national chefs, producers and beverage professionals as you sample what they make.

What you can expect is a delicious, multi-course meal with drink pairings, as you watch the demonstrations for $55. Each Culinary Stage has a different spin, as it depends heavily on the expert on the stage, who often brings you something they’re passionate about, whether that be the latest in sustainable eating, bold takes on traditional dishes or something completely unexpected.

Chopped Canada winner Chef Alana Mass is back on the stage, as is Chef Quang Dang, a champion of West Coast cuisine. The Gusto TV’s “The Latin Kitchen” Chef, Luis Valenzuela, and Chef Julian Bond of BC’s Restaurant Hall of Fame are also firm Culinary Stage favourites. These events are the festival’s hidden gems, combining food, drink and entertainment – a triple threat.

Restaurant + Bar Events

Whistler has a world-class, award-winning dining scene, and Cornucopia is a time for them to experiment, push boundaries and really wow diners. Some restaurants partner with wineries for winemaker dinners, whereas some lean into a theme or region – it’s exciting to see what they create.

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We spotted that Bearfoot Bistro is hosting Lightning Rock Winery in their incredible cellar; Mekong is being inspired by the variety of cultures that define their kitchen; Il Caminetto is offering a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with one of Italy’s most legendary estates: Tenuta dell’Ornellaia; and Wild Blue is offering a late-night experience, bringing the listening bars of Japan to the mountains.

For some of the popular establishments, tickets go quickly, but another strategy is to pick somewhere you’ve never been to before so you can uncover a new gem. Take a look through the Restaurant + Bar schedule.

Save With Signature Event Packages and Early Bird Tickets

Cornucopia Signature Event Packages combine discounted tickets to the signature events with accommodation, a great way to sort out two planning items in one go and snag a discount (packages start at $90 per person, per night). There’s a finite number of these packages, so book now before they go! Staying through midweek is another way to grab a deal with lower rates away from the weekends. If you stay three nights or more, you also receive a free $100 Dining Credit.

There are also Early Bird Tickets for some of the Signature Events, but there are a limited number of these tickets, so get yours before they go!

6 Whistler Cornucopia Tips

1.    Schedule Food Events

Between alcohol seminars and tastings, slot in one of the culinary demonstrations or take a stroll in Whistler Village to find a nearby eatery. For Signature Events like CRUSH, although there are delicious canapés being served, you’re going to want to have dinner beforehand. Take a look at Whistler.com’s dining guide and book an early dinner.

2.    Move Your Body

Fall in Whistler is a beautiful time to be in the mountains with its changing colours. Get outside for some fresh mountain air. Schedule windows of time for activities like a short hike (try Lost Lake), biking on the Valley Trail, or rejuvenating at a spa. You’ll go longer and harder and feel less guilty when you have to get up and do it all over again the next day.

3.    Stay in Town

Even Whistler locals take advantage of the Cornucopia accommodation pairings because, after three or more days of food and drink, a good night’s sleep in a king-size bed with high thread-count bedding and housekeeping service is very nice to come home to.

4.    Experiment

Adopt an open mindset. Cornucopia is the ultimate celebration of bold tastes, where you can experiment with your palate, expand your knowledge, and celebrate your foodie passions as you explore Whistler’s world-class food and drink scene. Don’t be afraid to try something new.

5. Dress for Success

Try sweaters and skinny jeans for craft beer and scotch tastings, and fancy and festive attire for socials and galas. As a rule of thumb, dress up rather than down, as you never know who you might meet. We also suggest bringing a waterproof jacket and winter shoes for when you’re not inside!

Cornucopia is an amazing place to learn about and sample new food, wine and spirits. It’s all about feeling good, making friends and enjoying the cornucopia!

Bundle your Signature Event tickets with lodging for unbeatable value with Whistler.com, and if you stay more than three nights, you also receive a free $100 Whistler Dining Credit. Cheers to that!

The post Whistler Cornucopia: A Festival of Food + Drink appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and mind alike.” John Muir.

Art is synonymous with the mountains, a place that provides an abundance of natural beauty for inspiration, but also a calmness and peace that help the mind wander.

Whistler is home to several art galleries, displaying work from local talent to the wider Canadian art pool and international artists whose work resonates with curators. One way to explore these galleries is to join the Whistler Wine Walk, which is happening on Friday, October 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 2026. Not only do you get to connect with gallery owners, curators and artists, but you also get to do so with a glass of wine in hand.

Whistler Wine Walk Details

Included in the ticket price is access to the galleries, three four-ounce glasses of wine, interactive art experiences and a curatorial tour of the Special Exhibitions at Audain Art Museum (more on that below), along with live music and canapés. There’s a choice of British Columbian white and red wine at each stop, with one wine pour per guest, per location.

The experience lasts around two hours (6 to 8:15 PM), with walking time considered. It’s the perfect evening activity after an early dinner, or perhaps before a late one, depending on how you like to dine. There are four tour options, each starting at a different gallery but all culminating at the Audain.

Date: Every Friday in October, 2026

Time: 6 to 8:15 PM

Where: Art galleries around Whistler Village – four walking routes to choose from

What: Visit to three art galleries with a glass of BC wine at each one

NEW: Chocolate pairings and non-alcoholic wine options

Six galleries are taking part this year, with four different tour options taking you to three stops, all culminating at the Audain Art Museum. The distances range from 900 metres to 2.2 kilometres, depending on your starting point.

Guests receive an email after purchasing tickets with detailed instructions, including their schedule, map and walking directions for each location (a Wine Walk Group Leader will be on-site to make sure the tour is flowing on time).

British Columbia Wines

Featured wineries are all BC-based and include Fort Berens Estate Winery, Kismet Estate Winery, 8th Generation Vineyard and Lightning Rock Winery, with Nk’Mip Cellars featured exclusively at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre on October 9.

The Galleries

• Adele Campbell Fine Art
• Audain Art Museum
• Mountain Galleries at the Fairmont
• The Plaza Galleries
• Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (October 9 only)
• Whistler Contemporary Gallery at the Hilton

Adele Campbell Fine Art

Adele Campbell Fine Art, located in the Westin Resort & Spa, proudly represents a broad spectrum of Canadian artists in an array of original paintings and sculptures. The pieces reflect the artists’ passion for their beautiful surroundings and contemporary influences, and you’ll be struck by the variety, power and boldness of the art when you visit.

For over a century, Canadian landscape art has been inspired by the Group of Seven, who bucked the trends of the time and painted with a bold palette and style they felt represented the mass scale of Canada. This has evolved and morphed into the contemporary art of today, which revels in the wildness and freedom of the country they’re depicting.

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Featuring over 50 established and emerging Canadian artists, you’ll find an ever-revolving comprehensive collection of uniquely Canadian art at Adele Campbell Fine Art Gallery. During the Whistler Wine Walk, the gallery will have live painting with some of its featured artists, and a canvas for you to leave your own mark on.

Mountain Galleries at the Fairmont

The focus at Mountain Galleries at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler is on post-war Canadian landscape art. Mountain vistas, lush forests and winding rivers pepper the walls. The gallery is also home to some incredible pieces of sculpture with serpentine stone bears, bronze eagles and intriguing wood and resin furniture.

It’s really a treasure trove of Canadian art that takes time to explore. During Wine Walk, the gallery will have some of its featured artists doing some live painting.

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The Plaza Galleries

The Plaza Galleries brings a bold, contemporary take on mountain art to Whistler Village. Its colourful collection features work by established and emerging artists, with everything from paintings and mixed-media pieces to sculpture, often inspired by wildlife, mountain landscapes, skiing and the energy of the outdoors.

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Expect vibrant, playful and sometimes unexpected interpretations of mountain culture, alongside work influenced by pop culture and urban life.

Whistler Contemporary Gallery at the Hilton

The white walls of the Whistler Contemporary Gallery are adorned with a diverse range of styles, including figurative, abstract and landscape. Featuring Canadian and international contemporary fine art, the gallery is home to some unique pieces, including paintings, multimedia, glass and sculpture. Some of the art is inspired by the mountain scenes and wildlife Whistler is known for, whereas others evoke a sense of pop culture and urbanity.

It’s also good to note that they have a second location at the Four Seasons Resort Whistler if you want to connect with more of their artists.

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Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (October 9 only)

New to the Wine Walk for 2026, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is a celebration of culture, history, traditions and art. Located in Whistler’s Upper Village, the centre sits on the shared territory of two First Nation communities, the Sk̲wx̲wú7mesh (Squamish) and Li̓l̓wat7ul (Lil’wat), who have coexisted respectfully as neighbours in this area since time immemorial.

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Visiting them on the Wine Walk gives you the opportunity to understand and connect with the original stewards of the land. Indigenous wine producers, Nk’Mip, will be featured at this stop on the Wine Walk.

Audain Art Museum

For the final stop at the Audain Art Museum, guests will be treated to something special in addition to the delicious canapés and live music. They’ll head into the museum to explore one of their special exhibit, Solstice: Through Storm & Stillness.

This exhibit brings together works from the Audain Art Museum’s Permanent Collection that reflect on endurance, resilience, and the quiet momentum of moving through difficult seasons. The featured artists, Andrew Dadson, Gathie Falk, Gordon Smith, Karin Bubaš, Kim Dorland and Landon Mackenzie explore weather as both a literal and metaphorical force. Through painting, sculpture, and photography, the exhibition invites viewers to consider winter not only as a time of hardship, but as a necessary season of pause, persistence and eventual transformation.

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If you’ve not visited the Audain before, this will definitely make you want to come back and explore. Its permanent collection is a visual journey through the history of art from coastal British Columbia. It spans the late 18th century to the present day, and features one of the world’s finest collections of Northwest Coast First Nations masks; a large collection of works by Emily Carr, and art by important post-war modernists such as E.J. Hughes, Gordon Smith and Jack Shadbolt.

In addition to these historical works, it showcases art by internationally renowned, contemporary British Columbia artists, including Jeff Wall, Dana Claxton, Marianne Nicolson, Rodney Graham and Stan Douglas, among others.

For more information on what a trip to this museum is like, read Culture Up: How to Get the Most From a Visit to the Audain Art Museum in Whistler.

Whistler Wine Walk Tickets

Wine Walk tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. Ticket holders will receive an email preceding the walk with detailed instructions for their route, including a schedule, map and walking directions for each location (there’s also a Wine Walk Guide on-site to help guide guests between galleries).

The Whistler Wine Walk is a chance to engage with gallery curators and artists, learn more about Canadian art and perhaps find something for above the fireplace back home.

There are other events happening in October, including yoga at the Audain Art Museum, Fairmont Fridays, the Whistler Farmers’ Market and the Whistler Writers Festival, to name a few. Check out the events calendar for a full list of what’s happening in Whistler this October.

For more ideas about what to do in the mountains in the fall, take a look at 21 Things to Do in Whistler in the Fall.

The post Whistler Wine Walk: Whistler’s Art Gallery Scene by the Glass appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

The West Coast of BC is a veritable hotbed of brewing – just look at the communities included in the BC Ale Trail if you need more proof. If you like a fancy tap handle, the Whistler Village Beer Festival, presented by Gibbons Whistler, should be an experience making the top of your beer-focused to-do list.

What: Whistler Village Beer Festival 2026

When: September 16 to 20, 2026

Main Event: Saturday, September 19, noon to 5 PM

Where: Whistler Olympic Plaza, Whistler Village

What to expect: 80+ craft beers and beverages, live music, food and festival events

Who’s it for? Craft beer lovers and visitors looking for a fall festival in Whistler

1. Sample 80+ Beers at the Whistler Village Beer Festival

The 13th edition of the Whistler Beer Festival invites you to sample 80+ varieties of beverages at the Main Event on Saturday, September 19, at Whistler Olympic Plaza from noon to 5 PM. Along with craft beer, there’s also cider, canned cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages for you to wow your taste buds with this fall.

2. An Outdoor Beer Festival in Whistler Village

It’s beer…with atmosphere!

Unlike other beer fests, this tasting event is held outdoors – no stuffy event hall or conference centre décor in sight. The grassy lawn of Whistler Olympic Plaza offers a delightful place to stroll and sip, and the mountains provide a magnificent backdrop.

Add in live music, yummy food trucks and lawn games, and you’ve got the recipe for a hopping beer fest.

Will rain wreck the party? Previous years’ experience has certainly proved not, thanks to the shelter under the plaza building and some smart clothing choices. Although smart clothing is a great idea, it’s good to note there are prizes for the best fancy dress, so dust off those lederhosen!

3. Beer Festival Events and Activities

The huge number of beers and other beverages on offer (see #1) means it’s likely you’ll come across a brew you haven’t tasted before. Adventure is the spirit of the Whistler Village Beer Festival, and the potential for pairing new beer with new activities is vast.

The festival has some well-thought-out pairings, including things like a Stretch & Sip or Paint & Sip session. Plenty is going on in the fall in Whistler, so you can mix and match to your heart’s delight, from hiking to biking, ziplining to ATVing.

4. Stay in Whistler Village and Leave the Car Behind

No Designated Drivers Needed

There’s no need to draw straws to see who will stay sober for the festival – driving is not required. The tasting events are in the heart of Whistler Village, meaning you can walk to the location from your accommodation plus find post-event eats within easy wandering distance afterward (reservations are always a good idea).

We recommend staying in town so you can get out and see a bit of Whistler the next day (a brisk walk around Lost Lake is the ultimate hangover cure). If you are staying further afield, there’s local transit to get you there and back, plus Whistler’s 24-hour taxi service kicks in if you decide to stay out and take in a little Whistler nightlife.

Take a read of our guide on how to get to Whistler, so you can pick the best option, save money on parking and feel good about one less vehicle on the road.

5. Celebrate Oktoberfest at the Longhorn Saloon

In line with the celebrations in Munich, Oktoberfest is happening at the famous Longhorn Saloon after the main event on Saturday, September 19, bringing a bit of Bavaria to the Pacific Northwest. 

 The bar will be transformed into a lively beer hall to bring this renowned German event to life in Whistler. Raise your stein high and toast to good times, great company, and Oktoberfest cheer. Prost!

Planning Your Whistler Village Beer Festival Trip

Do you need tickets?
Yes, the main event and some of the off-shoot events do require tickets. Take a look on the festival page to book.

Can you walk to the festival?
Yes. Olympic Plaza is in Whistler Village and is within walking distance of Village accommodation.

What should you wear?
It’s outdoors in September, so we’d suggest layers and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is there food at the festival?
Yes, there will be food trucks at the main event.

Where should you stay?
Staying in Whistler Village makes the event walkable, and if you stay for 3+ days, you get a $100 dining voucher with Whistler.com.

The Whistler Insider encourages guests to consume responsibly, so you can remember both the views and the brews. Cheers!

The post Whistler Village Beer Festival: 5 Reasons to Grab a Brew appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

Evolving from a living room gathering with one invited author to an annual four-day event with school programs that attract an average of 1,800 guests and 60 presenting authors and publishers, the Whistler Writers Festival has developed to become both a literary destination and integral expression of one community’s many voices.

This year the festival takes place November 5 to 8, 2026. 

Once Upon a Time…

Stella Harvey moved to Whistler 26 years ago with her husband. He was the skier; she was the one seeking a writing community. Harvey tells how she asked Whistler’s beloved first librarian, Joan Richoz, if there was a local writing group. Richoz, unaware of any, turned to Harvey and said, “Why don’t you start one?”

Harvey took up the challenge and placed an advertisement in the local newspaper. In response, 20 people showed up at her house for the first gathering of what would be the inaugural meeting of a writers group that continues to this day.

“There were people who were in my living room that first meeting that are still here and have gone on to publish, and are still part of the group.”

Facilitating the group, Harvey became inspired to host developmental craft sessions for the group of Whistler writers. In 2002, Harvey invited poet and novelist Andreas Schroeder to lead a workshop. “The first festival was in my house,” relays Harvey. Twelve writers attended, 25 years ago. “And then from there, it grew.” 

The Next Chapters: Growing Gains

The first incarnation of the Whistler Writers Festival was divided between Harvey’s house and The Point Artist-Run Centre. “As the first few years started, we wanted to attract more than writers,” Harvey reflects. The offerings were expanded not just to include writing workshops but also readings by invited authors: enlarging the audience to writers and readers.

And the community was behind this growing initiative, from the beginning. Support from sponsors and venues, in addition to grant funding, was beginning to come in from local to national sources. The Whistler Writers Festival grew and so began to move around town. It has been held at Base II on Blackcomb, the Ski Patrol Cabin in Creekside, the Spruce Grove community buildings, the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, the Aava Hotel, the Maury Young Art Centre and its most recent home: the Fairmont Chateau Whistler.

Hundreds of authors, 99% of whom have been Canadian, from international bestsellers and prestigious award winners to local voices, have been included in an eclectic and often experimental range of programming, including Richard Wagamese, Lawrence Hill, Julian Brave NoiseCat, Maude Barlow, Vincent Lam, Lorna Crozier, Robert Bringhurst, Russell Wangersky, Miriam Toews, Patrick DeWitt, Darrel J. McLeod and Omar El Akkad to name a few. 

The Page Turner

As much as the Whistler Writers Festival has grown, it has remained bespoke and intimate. Harvey headed up the annual event for 20 years, handing over the reins of Artistic and Executive Director to Rebecca Wood Barrett five years ago.

Wood Barrett happened to be one of the initial people who first showed up to Harvey’s newspaper appeal for a writers group. Wood Barrett has been a part of the festival from the beginning and is continuing the legacy that Harvey established, founded on Harvey’s repeated utterance, and evidenced in the programming: “inclusivity is really important to me.”

Wood Barrett, an award-winning author herself, maintains, “We always want every audience member, every guest author, every storyteller, volunteer, and staff member to feel like they’re in the right place.” With her genuine spirit of generosity, Harvey says of Wood Barrett’s festival vision: “I’m so appreciative that Becky is putting her own mark on it. Changing it as she sees fit.”

Wood Barrett displays such admiration for her mentor and the legacy she has inherited:

“And I think today we are still doing the same thing. The festival is a place where people can meet new friends and experience new ideas and perspectives. A friend last year brought her mother, and she said she’d never met a trans person before and she’d never heard an Indigenous storyteller before. And I thought that was wonderful.” Wood Barrett continues, “Some of those stories will also be very familiar for some people. They’ll say, ‘I feel like I have been seen or my struggles are not only my own.’”

The Whistler Writers Festival offers an opportunity to be touched by words, by ideas, by innovation and imagination. As Wood Barrett encapsulates, “vulnerability can happen because it’s a safe space.”

The Programme

This year the festival celebrates 25 Years of Stories!

The lineup includes the following new events and interactive workshops: Celebrating Sea to Sky Stories; Duelling Editors; The Body Writes: Exploring Rhythm in Storytelling; Closing Doors: How Using Generative AI Can Impact Your Book, and The Literary Salon: A Cure for Drowning.

Audience demographics are evenly split between the regional Sea to Sky area and literary-destination visitors. There are several book groups from Vancouver and Seattle who have established yearly rituals of attendance.

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The Whistler Writers Festival has long been aware of cultural and accessibility barriers to both attendance and comfort and has intentionally offered free events, used a diversity of venues and partnered with different groups to broaden accessibility.

“I think that is part of how we’ve been able to reach out to different audiences. And especially the last couple of years, our team has very much tried to sort of figure out who the different groups are, or what the different interests might be, and try to reach out to those groups.”

The Whistler Writers Festival is committed to fostering relationships with many communities and continues to support the reciprocal building of trust. 

Authors in the Schools

“We have quite a large school audience, which isn’t really in the public eye. So the program is not always well known. But we involve students in Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton, and Mount Currie, grades 4 to 12,” comments Wood Barrett.

Each year, 420 books by three selected authors are delivered to 20 schools throughout the Sea to Sky Corridor. The delivery of books is followed up by the authors visiting the schools.

In 2013, the first Authors in School Program began, and the late Richard Wagamese was the renowned writer to inaugurate the initiative. Harvey, with tears in her eyes, reflects on a presentation by Wagamese, author of Indian Horse, to a group of Grade 12 students.

“I was abused in every possible way you could imagine,” the author began in the inaugural session. He proceeded to outline some of those ways, and I worried that perhaps this was too much for the students.

“At 16, a friend told me I didn’t have to take it anymore. I left foster care and headed for the big city, the streets of Toronto.” The students, who upon arrival at the SLCC had pushed, shoved and joked with each other, were now spellbound.

“You’re further ahead than I am,” the author said. “You’re in grade 12. You’ll graduate this year. You know where I got my education?” They shook their heads. “I was cold and hungry, and I saw a building that I might go into for a few hours to warm up. Do you know what that building was?” Again, silence.

“It was a library,” the author said. “A librarian noticed me and suggested books I might like. Every day, she brought me others to read. This is how I began to write and tell my stories. One librarian, one person, took an interest.“

And taking an interest and supporting the sharing of stories is what has earmarked the Whistler Writers Festival from the beginning.

Writer-in-Residence Program

The festival also started a Writer-in-Residence Program in 2007, where, for the process of several months, a small cohort of writers works with an esteemed writer who mentors them through the process of writing their own manuscripts.

This year, for the 25th anniversary of the Whistler Writers Festival, Stella Harvey is the celebrated author stepping into this role. Part of the Festival programming this year also involves a book launch of Harvey’s fourth novel, Disruption, published by Signature Editions.

It feels fitting that Harvey should be honoured so, in this celebratory year for the festival. Along with spearheading the festival as a volunteer for 20 years and facilitating the still-ongoing local writers group, she won the Whistler Champion of Arts and Culture award (2015) and the Whistler Citizen of the Year Award (2022) for her efforts to promote the literary arts in Whistler, and the Rotary Foundation’s Paul Harris Fellow award. She has also mentored students in The Writers Studio at Simon Fraser University for the past nine years.

Harvey planted the seeds, let them flower and continues to be part of the blooming of a local event of literary stature and significance. Harvey, however, remains one of the most humble people one could ever meet, and quickly points out: “I don’t think anyone succeeds alone.” Harvey embodies and epitomizes what community is and can be.

The Plot in Present Tense

“We’re holding steadfast to bringing people together, along with trying to stay relevant and bring authors, books, storytellers that are exciting and have diverse thoughts, diverse stories to tell,” says Wood Barrett.

The Artistic and Executive Director is joined by another part-time employee, the Program and Project Coordinator, and a short-term contracted Marketing Specialist to execute the annual event. An enthusiastic Board of Directors and 50 volunteers all come together to make it happen.

As much as the festival has grown over the years, so too has it seen its struggles: as artistic funding has been cut back significantly in this country. The festival has been faced with cutting certain aspects of its programming (including the beloved Literary Cabaret, a signature offering for over a decade) and changing up its offerings.

Not only has the festival necessarily needed to steadfastly apply itself to diversifying its revenue, but it has also had to stay at the forefront of changing trends and challenges to the literary world when it comes to AI and trying to understand its potential impacts.

The Whistler Writers Festival remains relevant because it has always been, and continues to be, part of valuable conversations. It’s a festival that values words and their impact, and the ability to bring people together through the sharing of stories.

Add your voice, your ears and your heart to the conversation this fall.

The post The Whistler Writers Festival Celebrates 25 Years appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

Mark the dates: July 24 to August 2, 2026. For 10 unmissable days, Whistler once again becomes the centre of the mountain bike universe as Crankworx Whistler returns for its 21st edition – the ultimate celebration of mountain biking with higher stakes and impeccable festival vibes for fans looking to ride, race or simply have the best time.

This 10-day festival is back with a full slate of disciplines, the full roster of elite athletes, and a brand-new event closing things out. The world’s best riders are coming home to where it all began, and there’s never been a better time to be in Whistler Village.

A New Era – Higher Stakes at Rhapsody Slopestyle

The format fans love and know is intact: the men’s and women’s pinnacle of the sport, the world’s most progressive riders, and the legendary Whistler Boneyard as the stage. What’s new is the energy and what’s on the line for athletes.

2026 marks the inaugural season of Rhapsody Slopestyle, the Super Bowl of the mountain biking world. The biggest and most storied Slopestyle course on the World Tour circuit, and a pivotal event as the discipline’s best battle for points in the Slopestyle Super League and the Triple Crown Slopestyle.

And Crankworx Whistler isn’t just on the schedule, it’s the final event of the Regular Season, the make-or-break moment that decides which riders punch their ticket straight to the winner-takes-all Finals at Crankworx Mont-Sainte-Anne, who still have to fight for their spot at Crankworx SilverStar, and who will see their 2026 season end right here in the Whistler Boneyard.

What that means: every run in Whistler counts. Every trick matters. Every score reshuffles the leaderboard. For the audience, that means a level of tension and progression you won’t see anywhere else on the circuit.

A Legacy Reborn: Crabapple Hits World Championships

To close out the festival on August 2, Crankworx is bringing back one of Whistler’s most iconic stages with an all-new event.

The Crabapple Hits World Championships is a two-hour, rider-driven freeride jam at the legendary Crabapple Hits jump line. No brackets, no judging panel, no fuss. The riders themselves decide who wins. It’s a return to the heart of what makes Crabapple, well, Crabapple: creativity, progression, and the kind of moments that define a festival.

For more than a decade, this site was home to the iconic Whip-Off World Championships. Now it gets a fresh chapter – one written by the athletes, for the athletes, in front of a crowd that knows exactly what they’re watching.

Ten Days. The Full Festival. No Stone Unturned.

Beyond Slopestyle and Crabapple, the 2026 line-up delivers on every front:

• Downhill: get ready for another big DH line-up with the Canadian Open DH at the legendary 1199 track in Creekside, the OG CDN OPN finishing in the village, and the Air DH on A-Line – arguably the most well-known trail globally
• Enduro: the Canadian Open Enduro takes riders deep into the mountain, opening the festival on July 25-26
• Dual Slalom: head-to-head racing in the heart of the Whistler Boneyard – that’s as fun to watch as it is fierce to ride.
• Bosch eMTB Challenge: register to ride some of your favourite Whistler trails uphill (!) with your friends and have a good time
• Adaptive Mountain Biking (aMTB) is back at Crankworx Whistler with three days of competition and riding built into the festival: aMTB Flow (Saturday, July 25), aMTB Tech (Sunday, July 26), and aMTB First Tracks (Friday, July 31)
• Kidsworx, CWNEXT, and adaptive categories: the full progression pathway, from the next generation to riders of every ability.
• Deep Summer Photo Challenge and Dirt Diaries: mountain bike culture under the summer sky at Whistler Olympic Plaza, with the sport’s best photographers and filmmakers showing you the soul of the scene.
  • Deep Summer: Tuesday, July 28 at 8 PM
  • Dirt Diaries: Thursday, July 30 at 8 PM

Find the full Crankworx Whistler schedule online.

More Ways to Ride, Watch, and Be Part of It

Crankworx 2026 isn’t just for the athletes on the start gate. It’s an invitation to every rider and fan who comes to Whistler, and the participatory side of the festival is leaning in harder than ever:

• LIV A-Line returns as the signature women’s community ride – one of the most-loved experiences in the festival calendar.
• Expanded group rides led by brand ambassadors, pro athletes, and partners – your chance to ride alongside the names you usually watch from the sidelines.
• Demos, workshops, and brand activations spread across the festival site.
• A locally designed merchandise line created in collaboration with local artists, bringing Whistler’s creative community into the heart of the festival’s visual identity.

Best Seats in the House: VIP Tickets On Sale

Want to feel the action at arm’s length? Crankworx VIP tickets are on sale.

Available for both the Slopestyle and the Canadian Open Downhill events, VIP is the ultimate vantage point: unobstructed sightlines positioned right beside the course, a refreshed and more open VIP zone with space and flexibility to elevate your festival experience, plus refreshments and snacks to keep you fuelled through the day.

Plan Your Trip to Whistler

Whistler in Crankworx season is unlike anywhere else: the bike park humming from first chair to last, the village buzzing with athletes, fans, and brands from across the globe, and a festival that’s woven into the fabric of the resort itself. Whether you’re coming to ride, to spectate, or just to soak up the atmosphere, this is a week to be in town. A true celebration of mountain bike culture.

Book your stay, lock in your VIP tickets and get ready for ten days of the world’s best mountain biking, coming home to where it all began.

Don’t miss a thing! Subscribe to the Crankworx newsletter and follow @crankworx on social media.

Stay 3+ Nights and Receive a Free Activity Voucher

Stay longer than a weekend this August and enjoy all Crankworx has to offer. Stay 3+ nights and receive a free $100 Activity Voucher when you enter promo code SUMMER2026 at check-out or call 1.800.944.7853 and mention the offer to one of our Travel Consultants when booking.

Book by June 30. Available only at Whistler.com while quantities last.

This post was written by Teresa Fasch, Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications for Crankworx.

The post Crankworx Whistler 2026: The Mountain Bike World Comes Home appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

But just two hours north of Vancouver, a quick jump across the border from Seattle, Whistler offers an entirely different way to experience football’s biggest competition. Matches unfold surrounded by alpine peaks, pristine forests and glacial lakes, which give a different kind of buzz.

Imagine spending the day hiking alpine trails, or cooling off in a glacier-fed lake and then heading to a lively patio as kickoff approaches. For those looking to escape the big city vibe for a more scenic and relaxing one, here’s everything you need to know about how the FWC26 will unfold in Whistler. 

Whistler Village: The Heart of the FWC26 Action 

If the 2010 Olympics proved anything, it’s that Whistler knows how to turn a global sporting event into a celebration. The FIFA World Cup 2026™ in Whistler is going to be big.

Visitors looking to watch FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches in Whistler will find everything from lively sports bars and mountain patios to outdoor community screenings and watch parties. This summer, it’s not just about who has the game on, it’s about who’s creating the best atmosphere. 

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Bars & Restaurants Showing the Football Action

• Tapley’s Neighbourhood Pub: The focus will be on the biggest global matches. Positioned as Whistler’s “Home of the Tournament”, Tapley’s is expected to become the go-to spot for marquee matches, loud reaction and packed tables. 
• Earls Kitchen + Bar: “Match Day Headquarters” for the entire tournament. Their promise? Every single game in full sound, more 65-inch TVs and 48 national flags. It’s the kind of commitment die-hard fans will appreciate. 
• Brandy’s @ The Keg: Whistler’s premier sports bar plans to show all matches while juggling the Stanley Cup Finals. On game days, drinks are available from 9 AM, with a casual plates menu available at noon, and the happy hour menu beginning at 2 PM.
• The Longhorn Saloon: Longhorn Saloon is expected to become Whistler’s primary venue for Canada and North American matches during FWC26. Expect jerseys, patio pitchers and the kind of atmosphere Longhorn is known for, iconic slopeside parties.   
• Whistler Blackcomb: Merlin’s Bar & Grill (located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain), Garabaldi Lift Co. (GLC) and Dusty’s Bar & BBQ located in Creekside) will have large LCD screens and TVs posted on their outdoor patios. GLC will lead the charge, offering goal celebrations with mountain bikers ripping A-Line in the back.     
• Roland’s Pub (located in Creekside): Known as Whistler’s local watering hole, will be showing most matches with sound. 
• Blacks Pub & Restaurant: For those chasing a more traditional football atmosphere, they’ll be offering consistent, reliable coverage across the entire tournament. Expect an affinity for European team matchups to satisfy traditional fans. They’ll also have a double-sided screen on the patio so viewers can catch the matches from the patio and the village stroll.  
• Stinky’s on the Stroll: A quaint local bar with a big heart right in the village. Expect to see bigger matches with sound and a full house.    
• Whistler Racket Club: Is playing live matches on large screens in their cozy lounge area. They’re offering game-day specials, share plates and a relaxed atmosphere for you to watch the action.
• Stonesedge: Head here for an elevated sports bar experience, featuring upgraded inside screens and a giant new patio screen. It’s got mountain views, great food and drinks – it’s the perfect spot to settle in and watch the game.

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More Ways to Experience FWC26 in Whistler 

Part of what makes Whistler so attractive as a tournament destination isn’t just the venues, it’s the adventurous people who flock here. On any given day, you’ll find locals and visitors from around the world sporting jerseys from every continent. It’s a celebration of diversity, all sharing the same friendly patios. 

“The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is such a special time for the many international residents who call Whistler home. We’re so happy to create a welcoming space where everyone can cheer on their home country while raising funds that stay right here in the valley.” Angela Bueno, Whistler Multicultural Society.

No one knows this better than the Whistler Multicultural Society, which is partnering with the Cinnamon Bear in the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa to bring authentic international flair to big match days. Expect local hosts cheering for the nations they grew up supporting, country-specific music and a new feature menu to indulge in (kids are welcome until 10 PM).  

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FIFA World Cup 2026™ Watch Parties on the Big Screens at Whistler Olympic Plaza

For those looking for big energy, open skies and an all-ages experience, the Resort Municipality of Whistler is whipping up something special. Four official outdoor watch parties will be hosted at Olympic Plaza on July 7, 11, 18 and 19.

Held on the Great Lawn, these events will take advantage of the big screens and sound systems that Whistler’s Summer Concert Series utilizes. And the best part? It’s free to attend! 

Expect family-friendly activities, relaxed vibes in the back, flag-draped fans close to the stage and the occasional roar echoing through the village when someone finds the back of the net. Bring a chair, blanket, snacks and prepare to experience the local community, shared moments and celebration surrounded by stunning peaks and open skies.  

Things To Do Between FWC26 Matches in Whistler

The football matches will be memorable, but in Whistler, it’s also everything around those 90 minutes that leaves an impression. Here are a few things you can do while you’re in Whistler this summer:

• Ride the record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola and walk across the Cloudraker Skybridge
• Relax, swim or paddle at one of Whistler’s beautiful glacially-fed lakes
• Catch a free music concert under the stars
• Find alpine flowers in bloom on a Whistler hike
• Experience the thrill of North America’s biggest bike park
• Choose your own adventure with ATVing, whitewater rafting, bear viewing, and so many more mountain activities
• Visit the outdoor Whistler Farmers’ Market every Sunday during the summer

Getting to Vancouver from Whistler for the FIFA World Cup 2026™

There are daily round-trip shuttles (extra over the tournament), private transfers, floatplanes and helicopters that go from Whistler to Vancouver, making getting to the match smooth, scenic and simple. No stress navigating a busy city. No expensive parking. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride.

Whistler is a place where you can step into a global experience while being moved by the beauty of the mountains. And that balance is what will make the FWC26 in Whistler feel unlike anywhere else in the world. 

The post Where to Watch the FIFA World Cup 2026™ in Whistler appeared first on The Whistler Insider.

This year’s Whistler Summer Concert Series, presented by the Resort Municipality of Whistler, returns with a stacked global lineup, where fresh finds meet familiar favourites over 13 unforgettable nights at Whistler Olympic Plaza this July and August. The music action starts on Canada Day, July 1, with cherished Canadian icon Steven Page, co-founder, vocalist and songwriter with former band Barenaked Ladies.

Summer Concert Key Details

• Dates: Select Thursday and Friday evenings, July 1 to August 28
• Time: 6:30 PM Opening Act, 7:30 PM Headliner
• Where: Whistler Olympic Plaza
• Who: Global Music Acts Headline 13 Nights
• Cost: Free

Whistler Summer Concert Series 2026 – Full Lineup

This summer’s lineup includes the Steven Page Trio with String Quartet, Ozomatli, The Trews, Dirtwire, The Washboard Union, SkiiTour, Amistat, Kim Churchill, Pete Murray, Goldie Boutilier, Galactic feat. Jelly Joseph, Trooper, Drag in the Mountains, and The Hip Abduction. Read on for who’s playing when and for links to their music. 

Happening on Thursday and Friday evenings throughout July and August, with a break during Crankworx, each evening’s programming starts at 6:30 PM with a welcome from Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre Ambassadors before the opening act starts. The headlining act takes to the stage at 7:30 PM, wrapping up around 9 PM. We suggest getting there early to scope out a good spot, organize your nibbles and simply relax and take it all in! 

Whistler Summer Concert Series Lineup

Wednesday, July 1 – Steven Page Trio and String Quartet with opening DJ Foxy Moron

Experience Whistler’s Canada Day with Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductee Steven Page, who has established himself as one of the most recognizable and enduring voices in entertainment.  As co-founder, vocalist and songwriter with former band Barenaked Ladies, Steven sang and wrote classics like “Brian Wilson” and “If I Had a Million Dollars.” As a solo artist, he has continued his musical journey performing and writing music, working in film, theatre and television and is an award-winning public speaker on the topic of mental health.

His stellar band, The Steven Page Trio, includes Craig Northey of Vancouver legends Odds on guitar, the multi-talented Kevin Fox on cello, resulting in three-part harmonies to die for. For this special show, the Trio will be accompanied by a string quartet composed of some of Canada’s finest classical musicians. Together, they will perform songs from Steven Page’s vast catalogue of solo material, along with lots of Barenaked Ladies hits as only Steven can sing them.

Thursday, July 2 – Ozomatli with opening DJ Vinyl Ritchie

Ozomatli is a genre-blending Latin, hip-hop, funk, and global music band born in Los Angeles and shaped by the city’s cultural pulse. Led by six founding members—Asdru Sierra, Raul Pacheco, Ulises Bella, Wil-Dog Abers, Jiro Yamaguchi, and Justin Poree—Ozomatli delivers a trusted live experience rooted in connection, rhythm, and community.

More than 30 years in, the band continues to evolve, creating new music while bringing diverse audiences together in celebration of unity, resilience, and joy.

Friday, July 3 – The Trews with opening DJ Whitness

The achievements of rock ‘n’ roll heavyweights, The Trews, are many and mighty, highlighted by multiple radio hits, drawn from seven critically acclaimed studio albums plus several EPs, a pair of live records, and a retrospective. Comprised of lead vocalist/guitarist Colin MacDonald, lead guitarist John-Angus MacDonald, bassist Jack Syperek, drummer Theodore McKibbon, and keyboardist Jeff Heisholt, The Trews have been one of Canada’s most successful rock bands of the past decade, earning 20 Top 10 Rock radio singles (including three #1’s) and multiple Gold & Platinum certified albums.

The band has also received multiple East Coast Music Awards, a CIMA Road Gold Award, an Independent Music Award (US) in 2009 for Best Rock / Metal Song, and numerous JUNO Award nominations. The Trews have played thousands of shows worldwide, on their own as well as supporting the Rolling Stones, KISS, Robert Plant, Guns ‘n Roses, Aerosmith, Weezer, Mumford & Sons, Bruce Springsteen, Switchfoot and more. Drawing on rock, pop, punk, and metal, the band took over Canadian Radio with “Not Ready to Go.” Twenty years and a Canadian Platinum certification later, the songs still pack their original punch.

Thursday, July 9 – Dirtwire with special guest Mark Woodyard

Dirtwire stands poised between ancient Mother Earth and modern technology, a blend of ethnomusicology and the psychedelic trance state, gut-bucket delta blues and what the band variously dubs “back-porch space cowboy blues, swamptronica, and electro-twang.” It’s a sound informed by Dirtwire’s travels and performances around the globe, where East meets West, and North joins South. The band spreads its message by building bridges across musical cultures in its own unique way.

Dirtwire plays an array of instruments, both ancient and modern, including West African kamale ngonis, jaw harps, space fiddles, whamola basses, Rickenbacher electric 12-string guitars, bowed banjos and mouth harps from around the globe, all interwoven into modern laptop beat creation. Ranging from down-home boot-stomping get-downs to bass and blues electronic mashups, to ethereal cinematic beat-driven soundscapes, woven into each show is the exploration of where live instruments meet computer production, and where tradition meets experimentation.

Friday, July 10 – The Washboard Union with opening DJ Stache

The Washboard Union are JUNO Award winners and 9-time Canadian Country Music Award winners with a platinum record and four gold records to their name. Their signature 3-part harmonies, anthemic hit songs, and one-of-a-kind dynamic live shows have made them one of the most sought-after live bands in country music. They have toured with Nashville superstars Old Dominion, Diamond Rio, Lonestar and Dwight Yoakam and have shared festival stages with Morgan Wallen, Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, Toby Keith, Zac Brown Band, Hardy and more.

The band have just signed a new record deal in North America with Arts and Crafts Country. In addition, they have signed to ABC Music in Australia/New Zealand and recently completed their first Australian tour. These shows add to their many international appearances, which include Spain, France, Ireland and multiple shows across the United States. Watch for a brand new record from the band in the summer of 2026 and check out their latest hit single, “Somebody to Love”.

Thursday, July 16 – SkiiTour with special guest Fort Knox Five

Hailing from the snow-covered peaks of Whistler, Canada, SkiiTour is known for their upbeat “feel-good house music that keeps the vibe groovy” (DJ Mag) while channelling a retro ski aesthetic. Their annual après-ski parties at Shambhala Music Festival, featuring snow cones & snow machines, are the things of legend, where the energy is so high it feels like the mountains themselves are dancing.

They have released successful singles on labels like Hou5trap, DND Recordings, Box Of Cats and have made Mixmag & DJ Mag’s “Track of the Month” multiple times while garnering recent support from industry heavyweights like Fedde Le Grand, Benny Benassi, Don Diablo, and Claptone, just to name a few. They’re a hot ticket on the live music scene, with a global touring schedule that packs in over 80+ shows each year, including festival appearances at Friendship, Burning Man, Bass Coast, Snowbombing Canada and many more.

Friday, July 17 – Amistat with opening DJ SOUL CLUB

Following a landmark 2025, selling over 30,000 tickets across Europe, the UK, and North America, the twin brothers with Czech and Australian roots return in 2026 with a fresh collection of songs showcasing their evolution and artistry. This fall, Amistat embark on a major European tour, giving fans the first chance to hear their new music live.

Alongside the headline tour at the end of the year, the duo will also play a run of festivals across Europe, as well as a series of shows in Canada this summer. Known for their unmistakable harmonies and unspoken musical bond, the duo continues to captivate audiences around the world. With every note, they turn the ordinary into something unforgettable. Their musical journey is a live experience you won’t want to miss.

Thursday, August 13 – An Evening with Pete Murray and Kim Churchill

Kim Churchill grew up in a small town on the east coast of Australia called Merimbula, mainly known for surfing, oysters and whale watching. He set off in a van straight after high school to chase his dreams and surf his way across the country. In the first year, he won the Byron Bluesfest Busking comp and became Folk Artist of the Year at the National Folk Festival. This led to adventures in Japan, North America and Europe. He signed major record deals with Warner, Atlantic Records (UK) and Universal (Europe). His song “Window to the Sky” became the most played song on Triple J, went on to be 42nd in the Hottest 100, and is Platinum in Australia, Gold in Canada and Germany and has over 50 million streams.

In 2024, Kim returned with his eighth studio album, “It’s Lovely To Have You Here,” highly praised by the industry and fans alike. Hitting home runs with singles “Hobbies,” “Reflecting (Feat. Emily Brimlow),” and “The Wayside.” Kim’s sound will be heard throughout the European and Canadian festival seasons as well, with extensive tours booked across both continents.

One of Australia’s most enduring and beloved singer-songwriters, Pete Murray has built a career spanning decades with a string of multi-platinum-selling albums and hit singles. He has sold over 1.2 million albums, with three of his albums reaching the top of the ARIA charts. His career has earned him 17 ARIA Award nominations. Murray’s breakthrough came with his second album, “Feeler”, in 2003, which cemented his status as a key figure in Australian music.

This success was followed by a series of hits, including “Better Days,” “Opportunity,” and “So Beautiful.” His music, a unique blend of acoustic, rock, and folk, is known for its positive and stirring sound. Decades into his career, Murray released his eighth studio album, “Longing,” in October of 2025. The album is his first completely independent release in over two decades, a milestone he’s particularly proud of.

Friday, August 14 – Goldie Boutilier with opening DJ Nat Morel

Goldie Boutilier is a Canadian singer-songwriter whose cinematic blend of noir-pop, Americana, and torch-song balladry explores themes of tragic romance, glamour and survival. Raised on the music of Tammy Wynette and Dolly Parton, she signed her first record deal with Interscope at 21, later reclaiming her independence and voice through a trilogy of acclaimed EPs – “Cowboy Gangster Politician” (2022), “Emerald Year” (2023), and “The Actress” (2024).

With over 70 million streams, praise from Elton John and Zane Lowe, and performances at Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, Bonnaroo, and on tour with Orville Peck, she has established herself as one of today’s most fearless storytellers. Her debut album, “Goldie Boutilier Presents… Goldie Montana”, introduces her alter ego: a fiercely glamorous outlaw inspired by the anti-heroes of Scarface and Casino. Written as both confession and reclamation, the album chronicles her battles for control, resilience through exploitation, and the transformation of shame into power.

Thursday, August 20 – Galactic feat. Jelly Joseph with opening DJ PRAiZ

For over 30 years, Galactic has been a powerhouse of New Orleans music, fusing funk, jazz, rock, and soul into a sound that’s unmistakably their own. Originally coming together in the ’90s as a late-night funk band, the group has grown into a genre-defying collective that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. Their high-energy live shows and adventurous collaborations have earned them a loyal following around the world.

In recent years, Galactic has been touring and recording with dynamic vocalist Jelly Joseph, whose soulful, commanding voice adds a powerful new dimension to their sound. The band also serves as the owner and steward of the legendary Tipitina’s music venue, where they host iconic performances and foster the next generation of New Orleans artists. In 2021, they launched Tipitina’s Record Club, an all-vinyl label celebrating the city’s rich musical legacy. Their newest release, Audience With the Queen (out April 11, 2025), marks a major milestone: a full-length collaboration with Irma Thomas, the beloved “Soul Queen of New Orleans.”

Friday, August 21 – Trooper with opening DJ ShotSki

With millions of records, a couple of dozen hits, a JUNO Award for Band of the Year, and ongoing sold-out shows across Canada, it’s no exaggeration to say that Trooper has become a Canadian legend. Universal Music acknowledges them as “one of Canada’s top five selling bands of all time,” and the Vancouver Sun has called them “Canadian rock heroes of the first order … the best performing band in Canada”.

 In 2023, they were inducted into both the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and Canada’s Walk of Fame. Then, as now, what makes Trooper what they are is great performances and great pop songwriting. Trooper’s ten studio albums have earned multiple gold and platinum awards, and their 6 X Platinum greatest hits. “Hot Shots” continues to be one of Universal Music Canada’s best selling catalog CDs and one of the country’s most enduring party soundtracks.

Thursday, August 27 – Drag in the Mountains with opening DJs Vital Signs

The end of summer doesn’t need to be a drag – but we are definitely bringing drag back to the mountains. The Whistler Summer Concert Series is proud to present a night full of amazing drag performances with stars from Canada’s Drag Race, including the winner of season 4, VENUS, season 2 finalist KENDALL GENDER, and stars from Season 5 and 6, Tiffany Ann Co & Hazel. Joined by Vancouver’s Next Drag Superstar All Stars winner, Mya and many more.

Friday, August 28 – The Hip Abduction with opening DJ J to the U

Evoking the ocean and guided by the spirit of travel, The Hip Abduction pilots a sonic expedition past genre barriers. The band is the moniker for singer/songwriter David New, who writes and produces music in between travel excursions and touring. Live shows morph into a versatile musical ensemble consisting of Matt Poynter (drums), Chris Powers (bass), Justino Walker (guitar, vocals, ngoni), Cody Moore (keys, sax), and Will Phillips (percussion); each of whom has a mutual appreciation for African (Afrobeat/Soukous/Malian Blues), Reggae, and American (jam/electronic/indie) music.

Since 2012, the band has played almost every noteworthy music festival in the US, has landed major TV/movie syncs and SiriusXM radio spins, have 1.2M+ monthly listeners on Spotify, have provided direct cross country tour support for artists like Dirty Heads, Galactic, Slightly Stoopid, The Revivalists, and whose highly energized live shows have landed the 5-piece a sizable fanbase across the US and Canada.

Whistler Outdoor Movies in the Plaza

Big screen stories unfold against a beautiful mountain backdrop at Summer Movies at Whistler Olympic Plaza. From timeless classics to recent releases, it’s an opportunity to come together, get cozy, and share in the experience. Free screenings begin at 8 PM on Wednesday and Saturday nights starting July 4. Don’t forget to bring blankets and/or low chairs for a cozy evening under the stars.

Outdoor Movies Key Details

• Dates: Wednesdays and Saturdays, from July 4 to August 22
• Time: 8 PM
• Where: Whistler Olympic Plaza
• What: 11 Movies
• Cost: Free

Summer Movies at Whistler Olympic Plaza – Full Lineup

Saturday, July 4 – Jurassic World

2015 | 2h 4m | PG-13

Welcome to Jurassic World — the ultimate summer kickoff. The park is open, the dinosaurs are bigger than ever, and thousands of visitors are ready for adventure. But when a genetically engineered super-predator escapes, chaos erupts across Isla Nublar. Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard lead this thrilling, high-energy blockbuster built for the big screen. A massive, crowd-pleasing start to summer in Whistler. 

Wednesday, July 8 – Queen of Katwe

2016 | 2h 4m | PG

A vibrant, inspiring true story about Phiona Mutesi, a young girl from Uganda whose world changes when she discovers chess. Guided by a dedicated coach and supported by her community, she rises from the streets of Katwe to international competition. Heartfelt, uplifting, and full of joy — a celebration of resilience and possibility.

Saturday, July 11 – Kicking & Screaming

2005 | 1h 35m | PG

Phil Weston (Will Ferrell) becomes an unlikely kids’ soccer coach and quickly finds himself in over his head. With escalating sideline antics, a rivalry with his ultra-competitive father, and a team of lovable misfits, this family comedy delivers big laughs and big heart. A perfect light-hearted summer crowd-pleaser.

Wednesday, July 15 – The Way

2011 | 2h 3m | PG-13

After the loss of his son, an American doctor (Martin Sheen) travels to France to complete the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in his memory. Along the journey, he meets fellow travellers, confronts grief, and discovers an unexpected connection. A gentle, moving story about healing, purpose, and the paths we choose. 

Saturday, July 18 – Moneyball

2011 | 2h 13m | PG-13

Based on the true story of the Oakland A’s, Moneyball follows GM Billy Beane (Brad Pitt) as he challenges baseball tradition with a bold, data-driven strategy. Smart, sharp, and surprisingly emotional, this is a gripping underdog story about innovation, risk, and believing in something different. 

Wednesday, August 5 – A Beautiful Day in the Neighbourhood

2019 | 1h 49m | PG

Inspired by the real-life friendship between journalist Tom Junod and Fred Rogers, this film follows a cynical writer assigned to profile the beloved TV host. Tom Hanks delivers a gentle, powerful performance as Mister Rogers, reminding us of the impact of kindness, empathy, and slowing down in a noisy world. 

Saturday, August 8 – School of Rock

2003 | 1h 49m | PG-13

When struggling musician Dewey Finn (Jack Black) poses as a substitute teacher, he turns a class of straight-A students into a rock band. Packed with music, comedy, and pure joy, School of Rock is an irresistible crowd favourite that celebrates creativity, confidence, and the power of a great riff.

Wednesday, August 12 – The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

2013 | 1h 54m | PG

Walter Mitty escapes his ordinary life through vivid daydreams — until a real-world adventure sends him across the globe. With stunning landscapes, a soaring soundtrack, and a story about stepping into the unknown, this film is a visual treat and a perfect fit for Whistler’s spirit of exploration.

Saturday, August 15 – Raiders of the Lost Ark

1981 | 1h 55m | PG

Indiana Jones makes his legendary debut in this iconic adventure from Steven Spielberg. Racing against time — and villains — to recover the Ark of the Covenant, Indy faces booby traps, deserts, snakes, and nonstop action. A timeless classic that still thrills audiences of all ages.

Wednesday, August 19 – Free Solo

2018 | 1h 40m | PG-13

This Oscar-winning documentary follows climber Alex Honnold as he attempts the first free-solo ascent of Yosemite’s El Capitan — with no ropes, no margin for error, and no room for fear. Visually breathtaking and emotionally gripping, Free Solo is a jaw-dropping portrait of human focus and ambition.

Saturday, August 22 – McFarland, USA

2015 | 2h 9m | PG

Based on a true story, this uplifting sports drama follows a high-school coach (Kevin Costner) who builds a championship cross-country team in a small California farming town. With heart, humour, and a powerful sense of community, McFarland, USA is a feel-good story about grit, opportunity, and believing in each other.

Getting There

The Whistler Summer Concert Series and Movies in the Plaza are being held at Whistler Olympic Plaza, in Whistler Village North. If your accommodation is in Whistler Village, then it’s an easy walk along the Village Stroll, but if you’re a little further afield, then consider using some pedal power.

The car-free Whistler Valley Trail stretches for 46 kilometres, connecting Whistler’s lakes, parks and neighbourhoods, the perfect way to cruise in for some mountain tunes. When you get to Whistler Olympic Plaza, there’s a complimentary bike valet service you can use to make sure your ride (and any other gear) is safe, which supports Whistler’s Big Moves climate action strategy.

What to Bring (and Not to Bring)

• It can be hot in the sun, but as soon as it drops behind the mountains, it can get a little chilly, so bring layers.
• The concerts happen rain or shine, but don’t bring an umbrella or a tent to the concert, as it will be a view blocker!
• We suggest packing a picnic blanket to lie on the lawn, and if you’re considering bringing chairs, make sure they’re not too big or tall to block the view for other concert-goers.
• Kids and fur babies are welcome, but be aware that people will be picnicking and are there to enjoy the tunes, so it’s not ideal if they’re playing food defence against your pooch or curious toddler.
• If you’re going to be picnicking, bring your reusable drink bottles, straws, cutlery and other eating implements to reduce the usage of the recycling bins around the plaza area.

Dine Early

A lot of your favourite Whistler restaurants will be opening earlier on concert days, so check in with them to see if you can get an early reservation before the music starts. They may also have additional take-out options if you do want to dine while the music plays.

Where to Eat Nearby

Whistler Olympic Plaza is ideally situated close to Main Street, a hub of grab-and-go food options. The Deli by Picnic offers beautifully curated charcuterie boxes and a range of sandwiches and vegan wraps. La Cantina is a laid-back, quick option full of Mexican flavour and a local favourite.

There’s Peaked Pies where you can get an Aussie-style pie topped with mashed potato, mushy peas and gravy (they also do sweet treats and great coffees). Splitz Grill is where to go for burgers and fries (they have milkshakes too), and Hunter Gather does a yummy chicken shawarma and pulled jackfruit sandwich.

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We also love the fresh pizza at Pasta Lupino (bought by the slice), a box of Crispy Chilli Beef or Pad Thai from Main Street Noodles or a fresh ahi poke tuna bowl from Main Street Poke. You could also pop into Fresh St. Market (which closes at 10 PM) to grab some goodies, including organic, cold-pressed juices, Whistler Roasting Company (coffee) and a range of gourmet donuts.

Other nearby options include The Brickworks, Brewhouse, Quattro and Alta Bistro. Visit Whistler.com’s dining guide for a full list of where to dine in Whistler. Of course, instead of eating early, you could eat late.

Whistler Summer Concert Etiquette

• You can’t consume alcohol at Whistler Olympic Plaza
• There’s no smoking or vaping allowed
• Pack out what you pack in, and if the bins are full, please take any garbage back to your accommodation and dispose of it there
• Support local by buying your food and nibbles from nearby businesses
• Keep dogs on a leash

Quick Whistler Summer Concert and Movie FAQ

Is the Whistler Summer Concert Series free?

Yes. The summer concert series and outdoor movies are free to attend.

Can you bring alcohol to Whistler Olympic Plaza?

No.

What time do concerts start?

6:30 PM for the opening act, 7:30 PM for the headliner.

What time do the movies start?

8 PM.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, on a leash.

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As the sun dips behind the peaks and the music carries through the valley, it’s easy to see why this is one of Whistler’s most-loved summer traditions. Whether you’re here for a headline act, a family movie night, or simply an evening on the grass with friends, the Whistler Summer Concert Series and Movies in the Plaza offer the perfect way to soak up the season. Pack a blanket, bring your appetite, and settle in – summer nights in Whistler don’t get much better than this.

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