August is midsummer in Whistler, and that means hiking, trail running, biking and sightseeing in the fresh alpine air, cooling off with a lake dip and taking in the sweet tunes of the Whistler Summer Concert Series.
From August 8 to 17, the iconic Crankworx festival returns to Whistler for its 20th anniversary, transforming the town into the heart of mountain biking with elite athletes, amateur riders and fans from around the world. The Resort Municipality of Whistler celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, with celebrations kicking-off from August 21 to 25. The jam-packed lineup of events, includes concerts, family-friendly activities and community programming that pay tribute to Whistler’s adventurous spirit.
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So get outside and into the mountains this August to soak up the season while it’s still here – it’ll be gone before we know it! Here’s what’s happening in Whistler this August.
Outdoor Adventure
You’ll find us:
- Getting together with a bunch of rad women for the Liv Women’s Only A-Line Session on Sunday, August 10. Bike park coaches and Liv ambassadors are on hand during this women-only freeride event, giving tips, tricks, and guidance on one of the world’s raddest bike trails, A-Line, which will be closed to other riders. Registration opened on July 25, so be sure to snag your spot ASAP before it sells out.
- Descending the mind-blowing Top of the World trail, located in the Peak Zone of the Whistler Bike Park. Beginning at the top of the Peak Chair on Whistler Mountain, Top of the World takes you through Whistler’s insane alpine environment on tacky single track filled with built-up berms, switchback corners and fun flowy descents along the way. It’s a black diamond-rated trail for advanced riders only. Beginner riders should check out the great green and blue trails within the Whistler Bike Park, or book a lesson.
- Running on one of Whistler’s great trail networks. August is a great time to trail run in the alpine on Whistler Blackcomb, as it’s cooler up high and the endless views are a great distraction for when your lungs and legs start to protest. If you’re a trail runner who likes racing, the 5 Peaks Trail Running Series returns on Blackcomb Mountain on August 30. For more races, check out our Going the Distance blog.
- Experiencing the thrill of racing down the track on a Summer Bobsleigh at the Whistler Sliding Centre. Guests go with a professional pilot, reaching speeds of up to 90 km per hour! This summer (until August 31), youth ages 12 to 18 slide for 50% off (2 youth per 1 paying adult), so you can bring the whole crew.
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Adventure Lite
You’ll find us:
- Wandering amongst fields of colourful wildflowers on an alpine hike. The wildflowers typically bloom until mid-August, but timing can shift slightly each year depending on the weather. Read our wildflowers blog post to learn about where to discover these colourful beauties.
- Connecting with nature at the free Forest Bathing journey on August 10, presented by the Whistler Library. Local Guide Monica Sander Burns from the Society of Trees will lead you on a journey of discovery and awe in this relaxing and restorative experience. While the event is free, registration is required.
- Cheering on the athletes participating in the legendary Red Bull Joyride as part of Crankworx on Saturday, August 16, at 10 AM. Known as “the Super Bowl of the mountain biking world”, Red Bull Joyride is the biggest Slopestyle course on the World Tour circuit, gathering over 35,000 fans in Skier’s Plaza. The 20 best riders in the world bring their A-game to this invitational showcase, interpreting a custom-built course and giving it their all.
- Going on a Plein Air Painting Adventure on Whistler Mountain with Arts Whistler on August 23. You hike to Harmony Ridge with local artist, Heidi Mattson, where all your paint gear is waiting for you.
- Learning about the 3 fundamental pillars of the Wim Hof Method (breathing technique, cold exposure and commitment) with instructor Laura Douglas on August 24. Find out how you can utilize oxygen and cold exposure to optimize body & mind, and learn about the underlying physiology.
- Stretching it out at the free Lululemon Summer Yoga Series classes, located at the Westin Resort & Spa in the heart of the Village every Saturday throughout the summer from 9 AM to 10 AM. Bring your own mat, water bottle and an extra layer for cozying up in savasana (and in case it’s chilly). If you’re into outdoor movement classes, then check out the Mountain Top Movement classes on top of Whistler Mountain, happening every Friday at 10 AM until August 29.
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More ways to get outside.
Family Fun
You’ll find us:
- Cheering on the little rippers at the Kidsworx events presented by Crankworx. Make sure to sign them up in advance for events like the Kidsworx Enduro, B-Line Downhill, Dual Slalom, Pump Track Clinic and more. Families can also enjoy the vibrant buzz of the Crankworx spectator events, like the Dual Slalom, the Official Whip-Off, the Outdoor Research Trick Showdown and more. View the full Crankworx 2025 lineup for details and viewing locations so you can get out there and enjoy!
- Watching the little ones get creative at Crafts in the Park every Wednesday until August 20. Located at Florence Petersen Park from 11 AM to 12 PM, hosted by the Whistler Library and the Whistler Museum. Each week features a Whistler-themed craft and is free for kiddos under six (kids must be accompanied by an adult). Drop-ins are welcome!
- Having a family picnic in the park with Whistler’s Park Eats food truck program dishing up delicious food from local vendors at Alpha Lake, Rainbow Park, Meadow Park, Lakeside Park and Lost Lake. If you opt for Lost Lake, keep an eye out for tiny toads hopping about, as the toadlets have begun their migration from the lake to the forest. The little hoppers are about the size of a dime, and they are a threatened species, so support their mission by watching your step, walking your bike, keeping an eye on signage and looking but not touching.
- Getting the kids to exercise their creative muscle at the Audain Art Museum‘s youth summer programming, including the Stop Motion Animation Workshop (August 6 to 8), Children’s Drawing Classes (August 1), Art Therapy for Teens (August 11), Introduction to Carpentry (August 14 to 15) and Introduction to Natural Dyeing & Banner Making (August 21 to 22). Make sure you book the kiddos’ spot in advance, as these workshops are popular.
- Bringing the whole fam (including your furry friends) to WAG Fest on August 24. The day begins with a five-kilometre, on-leash run around Lost Lake, followed by an action-packed schedule featuring agility games, local vendor booths, and a BBQ and more. Don’t miss the 50/50 raffle; ticket proceeds support WAG’s ongoing animal rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming programs.
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More family-friendly activities.
Arts & Culture
You’ll find us:
- Celebrating the Resort Municipality of Whistler’s 50th Anniversary from August 21 to 24. Guests and locals alike are invited to enjoy a vibrant, family-friendly lineup that pays tribute to the adventurous community of Whistler. From a Community Picnic on Saturday, August 23 to the Sunday Social events on Sunday, August 24 with social sports, DJs, a floating soundbath meditation, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out the full lineup for more details.
- Browsing the incredible talents of artisans from the Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation at the Spo7ez Artist Market on August 2 at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC). While you are at the SLCC, don’t miss the Legends of the Land / Sx̱wex̱wiy̓ám̓ tiná7 tl’a temíxw / ptakwlh ti tmicwa exhibition. Check out the hours of operation to plan your visit.
- Turning inspiration into action at Aspire as part of Crankworx on August 9. Aspire is a gathering of athletes, brand leaders and community members committed to reshaping what belonging looks like in mountain biking and the outdoors. This year’s theme, Building Authentic Partnerships with BIPOC Outdoor Organizations, explores moving beyond transactional sponsorships into relationships rooted in respect, shared purpose, and community.
- Supporting the 14th Annual Flag Stop Theatre & Arts Festival on August 6, 8 and 9. The Point Artist-Run Centre has pulled together an incredible array of talented actors, comedians, playwrights, musicians and dancers to entertain you for three spectacular summer nights.
- Appreciating the creative spirit and storytelling culture of mountain biking at the Dirt Diaries video throwdown presented by Crankworx on August 14 in Whistler Olympic Plaza. Six filmmakers are invited to tell a story – one athlete, one vision, four to six minutes of pure mountain bike magic. If that sounds interesting, then don’t miss the Deep Summer Photo Contest on August 12, where six creatives hit the trails with their cameras on a mission to craft a powerful photo slideshow – all in just three days!
- Checking out the vibrant, art-filled celebration of everything that makes summer in the Sea to Sky unforgettable at the new Summer Lovin’ Exhibit at the Maury Young Arts Centre. The exhibit is on until August 30 and features the works of 30-plus local artists that capture the season’s magic in every piece.
- Soaking in the sounds of the Whistler Concert Series, happening on select Thursdays & Fridays throughout the month. Dance the night away with PINWO & LOEB on August 21, and the Sam Roberts Band on August 22 as part of the Municipality of Whistler’s 50th Anniversary celebrations.
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Eating, Drinking & Shopping
You’ll find us:
- Tasting the fresh, new flavours of Caramba, Quattro and Lorette Brasserie’s refreshed menus. Whether you’re craving something new or returning for your favourites, their chefs have something special in store. Make it dinner and a show by grabbing dinner before (or after) the Whistler Summer Concert Series.
- Having a fiesta at the Radiante Taqueria Terrace pop-up, located at Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Enjoy delicious margaritas and authentic Mexican tacos on the secret garden terrace, open Wednesday to Sunday.
- Strolling through the Whistler Farmers’ Market, happening every Sunday through to October 13, plus Saturdays on long weekends (this month that’s Saturday, August 2 and 30). Check out an abundance of local produce, on-site food, treats, craft goods and live music.
- Filling our plates at the Mountain Top Summer Feast at the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain. Take the gondola up (make sure you have a Summer Alpine Experience Ticket) and enjoy a buffet meal with live music while taking in the incredible views, every Friday to Sunday until August 31.
- Grabbing a plant-based ice cream at Fix Café, located at Nita Lake Lodge in Creekside. Their new house-made ice cream is crafted in small batches using fresh local ingredients, including herbs and garnishes from their rooftop garden.
- Enjoying the cocktail skills of acclaimed beverage director, Jeff Savage from Prophecy, “Canada’s Best New Bar“, who’s collaborating with the Four Seasons Whistler’s Braidwood Tavern on a bar takeover on August 10 and 11, with a cocktail masterclass on August 10 from 4 to 5:30 PM.
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More on Village shopping, dining and arts and culture.
Save the Date
Whistler Summer Concert Series | Select dates throughout August
RBC GranFondo Whistler | September 6
Whistler Village Beer Festival | September 8 to 14
Whistler X Tri | September 13 & 14
Whistler 50 Relay & Ultra | October 4
Whistler Writers Festival | October 30 to November 2
Be a Responsible Traveller: Don’t Love It to Death
- Wildfires are a very real risk to Whistler, especially at the height of the summer. Whistler’s fire danger rating gets updated daily by the BC Wildfire Service, and when it reaches High or Extreme, open fires of any kind are banned (check it on our weather page). If you see a fire, call 9-1-1.
- Whistler Alert is the official emergency notification system used by the RMOW to communicate with residents and visitors during emergencies via text message, phone and email. We encourage you to sign up for it while you’re here (just in case). When you register, you will be asked to provide your contact number and the date you plan to leave Whistler so that you don’t receive alerts when you’re back home.
- Whistler is bear country. Take a read of our Bear Aware blog post so you can act responsibly on behalf of these beautiful, wild creatures. Remember, a fed bear is a dead bear.
- If you’re using the hiking and biking trails around Whistler regularly, consider donating to or joining WORCA, a local organization that maintains Whistler’s trail system.
- Help keep Whistler green by choosing tap water over bottled water, avoiding single-use plastics, leaving the car at home, choosing active transportation and sorting garbage properly to reduce your waste.
- Be AdventureSmart and always practice Leave No Trace principles. Consider our Responsible Travel pillars, Respect Nature, Think Environment, Don’t Love It to Death and Support Local.
If You’re Driving . . .
- Take a read of Go Car Free: 8 Reasons to Ditch the Car on Your Whistler Trip in case we can convince you that you don’t need your car!
- Help reduce congestion on the highway by travelling during non-peak times. Peak travel times on the Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler include Friday afternoons and evenings, weekends and holidays. To avoid this busy time, plan to visit Whistler midweek when the highway and the resort are typically quieter. Extend your weekend – plan to arrive on Thursday night and leave on Monday morning to avoid the weekend traffic. If you’re visiting Whistler only for the day, plan on staying for dinner to avoid the rush of day traffic leaving the resort after the mountain closes.
- Always check DriveBC for current road conditions before getting on the road. Follow @DriveBC on Twitter and listen to MountainFM for the latest updates.
- Paid parking is in effect in all the Day Lots, although there is complimentary parking from 5 PM to 8 AM. Overnight parking is allowed in the Day Lots, but no overnight camping or sleeping in vehicles. Please check the RMOW website for more information on parking.
- Marketplace parking has new tariffs: 1 first 30 minutes and $2 first hour (15-minute, storefront parking remains free). For shopping at Fresh St. Market, register your license plate in the machine prior to shopping, and they will reimburse you for 1 hour with a minimum $25 purchase.
Save up to 20% on lodging with Whistler.com this summer. Stay & Golf from $289 CAD per person, per night or Stay & Bike from $179 CAD per person, per night. Sign up to be a Rewards Member (for BC and WA residents only) and receive a FREE $50 CAD activity voucher on stays of 3+ nights.
You can also win a summer trip to Whistler with the Escape the Ordinary contest!
