Beneath the high-energy mountain adventures lies a thriving community of artists and curators showcasing the stories, art and enduring spirit that have shaped this region for generations.
Did you know that Whistler has an art museum that contains one of the world’s finest collections of Northwest Coast First Nations masks and a large collection of works by Emily Carr? That there are over 130 Sea to Sky artists and artisans who are regularly featured in revolving exhibits at Arts Whistler? That you can connect with a Cultural Ambassador at the Sk̲wx̲wú7mesh and L̓il̓wat7úl Cultural Centre and revel in the stories of the land you’re visiting? That you can see Olympic memorabilia at the Whistler Museum and join an artist-run workshop in a historic building on the shores of Alta Lake?
Below is a sample of what’s happening in Whistler’s arts and culture this fall and winter. You can also take a look at our events calendar and search by arts, culture and entertainment.
Audain Art Museum
Right in the heart of Whistler Village, the Audain Art Museum melds seamlessly with its environs thanks to internationally renowned Patkau Architects. Look for the six-metre-tall bronze sculpture, The Three Watchmen, by revered Indigenous artists James Hart (7idansuu), Xwalacktun and Levi Nelson (Svpyan), that connects the building with the Village Stroll.
The Audain’s Permanent Collection
A visit offers a diverse journey through the history of art from coastal British Columbia, featuring 300+ works in its Permanent Collection. Spanning the 18th century to the present day, the Collection contains one of the world’s finest collections of Northwest Coast First Nations masks, a large collection of works by Emily Carr, hereditary Haida Chief James Hart’s The Dance Screen (The Scream Too), as well as pieces by post-war modernists and key works from Vancouver’s photo-conceptualism movement.
Current Exhibitions at the Audain
Takao Tanabe
The Audain brings unique and evolving exhibitions from Canada and around the world to Whistler. On display until September 21, 2026 is the stunning Vistas: From Takao Tanabe’s Travels. Tanabe’s fascination with landscapes comes vividly to life through his travels across British Columbia, North America, the Arctic and Europe. Tanabe captured their geographical features and unique atmosphere, translating his photos into paintings that balance careful observation with poetic reflection. His works invite quiet contemplation, as if he listens intently to the land itself and invites you to do the same.
Tanabe has a second exhibition at the Audain celebrating his 100th birthday and his extraordinary contributions to Canadian art. Takao Tanabe 100: Inside Passage features over fifty paintings spanning more than six decades, offering a comprehensive look at his evolving visual language and the remarkable breadth of Tanabe’s artistic practice. This exhibit is on until October 19, 2026.
Solstice: Through Storm and Stillness: October 2, 2026 to April 12, 2027
Solstice: Through Storm and Stillness brings together works from the Audain’s Permanent Collection that reflect on endurance, resilience and the quiet momentum of moving through difficult seasons. 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. 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.
Eleven Painters Start a War: November 21, 2026 to May 3, 2027
Eleven Painters Start a War tells the story of Painters Eleven, a group of trailblazing abstract artists whose ethos was defined by creative freedom, diversity of approach, and a refusal to accept aesthetic complacency. Through their perseverance, they reshaped the Canadian art landscape, pushing abstract painting into galleries, critical discourse, and public awareness, even as they faced significant opposition from the established art world.
Audain Art Museum Events
The Audain hosts innovative and exciting events throughout the year, so make sure you check their events page. Here’s a selection of what’s happening at the Audain this fall.
Sunday Scribbles, Family Art-Making Sessions
Bring the kiddos to the Audain on Sundays from 1 to 3 PM for hands-on art activities for the whole family. Explore different materials and techniques while learning about some of the artworks on display at the Museum in a relaxed and welcoming session that encourages creativity, curiosity and connection. This drop-in experience is included with the cost of admission and is free with AAM Membership; no registration is required, and all art supplies are included.
The Art of the Cocktail
These fun and popular mixology events include gallery admission, cocktail instruction and a tasting; however, they all have a different art-connected theme. In September, the event celebrates the winner of the Audain’s Prize for Lifetime Achievement in the Visual Arts; in November, it’s combined with Whistler Cornucopia, and the December event will celebrate Emily Carr’s birthday.
Must be 19+ to attend. Limited tickets available.
Yoga at the Audain Art Museum
Revel in the stunning architecture of the Audain as you work through a calming, one-hour practice on Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. Classes emphasize breathing, alignment and ease as you stretch and strengthen your body and mind. Registration includes access to the Museum galleries on the day of the yoga session.
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
The resort town of Whistler is located on the shared, unceded territory of the Lil’wat Nation, known in their language as L̓il̓wat7úl, and the Squamish Nation, known in their language as Sk̲wx̲wú7mesh. The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) is a place where both distinct cultures meet, grow and are shared.
Museum admission includes a “What We Treasure” guided tour. Every tour is unique as each Cultural Ambassador draws on their personal stories and experiences to bring the artifacts to life, and includes a welcome song and an inspiring short film. Some regalia clothing and canoes on display are still in use, and the spacious, light-filled building allows visitors to feel the connection between the living cultures of the Squamish and Lil’wat nations and their home territory.
Current Exhibit – Wisdom of the Animal People
Sk̲wx̲wú7mesh & Líl̓wat7ul Ways of Knowing
Animals play important roles in Sk̲wx̲wú7mesh Úxwumixw and Líl̓wat7úl cultures. They wear their hides as clothing, feature them in artwork, stories, songs and dances, and use them as an important educational tool to share history, morals and values with their children. Learn about the animal-based legends from both distinct Nations; how humans are known as the younger siblings and about the belief that animals, birds, people and land are one and the same.
The SLCC is hosting a Wisdom of the Animal People: Cultural Sharing event on Friday, October 2, and Saturday, October 3, complementing the exhibit and featuring Chinook Song Catchers, Alex Wells Native Thunder, Proud Little Warriors, Yex̱wela7 Cht, Spo7ez Cultural Sharing, with storytelling from Holly Bikadi, Sík Sík Josh Anderson and more. Find more information on slcc.ca/events.
Fall Events at the SLCC
National Truth and Reconciliation Day: Sept 30
Heading to the SLCC on Wednesday, September 30, gives you a powerful opportunity for reflection, education and connection through storytelling, cultural sharing, immersive experiences, and thought-provoking guest speakers. These include author and filmmaker Julian Brave NoiseCat, author Carolyn Roberts and filmmaker Sydney Pascal, and a special feature presentation from the Whistler Film Festival.
The programming is supported by proud partner, the Resort Municipality of Whistler, and there’s free admission for kids and youth aged 18 years and under. For more details, visit the SLCC’s website.
Arts Whistler
Capitalizing on the season between sports, Arts Whistler has an action-packed calendar of live music and local art offerings. We’ve picked out just a few events below.
The Gallery Exhibits
Teeny Tiny Show: July 31 to October 2
The Gallery, located upstairs in the Maury Young Arts Centre, is hosting the Teeny Tiny Show from July 31 to October 2. This local favourite is back for its 8th year, proving that great things indeed come in small packages. Over 85 Sea to Sky artists have poured their creativity into 200 original works, each measuring 3″ x 3″ or smaller. This is your chance to discover and purchase affordable, original and irresistibly tiny works of art.
Join the Arts Whistler and mingle with local artists for the show’s free Art Party on September 10, 2026, from 6 to 8 PM (free appies!).
We Heart Local Art: October 21 to December 19
This upcoming Gallery exhibit will feature artwork from all your favourite local artists. It’s the perfect place to find original local artwork for yourself or to give as a gift this holiday season.
The People’s Film
Since Whistler lost its cinema, Arts Whistler has been filling the film gap by asking its members and the general public what they want to see on the big screen with their The People’s Film series. The September 23 theme is “Books on Film”, celebrating the Whistler Public Library’s 40th Anniversary, with a screening of The Martian. For Halloween, on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, it’s the classic slasher film Scream. And on October 29, step into the madness of the ultimate cult classic, The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
The theme isn’t set for their November film just yet, but we know you’ll need to don your ugliest Christmas sweater for a holiday classic on December 16.
Arts Whistler Live! presents: MAGIC!: September 19, 2026
Three performers. Three approaches to magic. For one night only, the Maury Young Theatre transforms into an evening of astonishing sleight of hand, impossible illusions, and laugh-out-loud comedy as three of Canada’s acclaimed magicians take the stage for MAGIC! From Travis’s award-winning sleight of hand and mind-bending magic, to Nayana’s genre-bending blend of clown, physical theatre and illusion, to Ben’s highly technical card work, this event is for anyone who likes to ask – how did they do that?!
Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival (VIMFF): October 8 and 16
The Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival World Tour is back for another evening of thought-provoking outdoor adventure and mountain culture films. From the thrill of skiing and snowboarding to the challenges of climbing and biking, these films represent the pinnacle of independent storytelling in the world of extreme sports. The All Ages screening is on October 8, and the 19+ on October 16.
Arts Whistler Live! presents: The Boo Revue!: October 20, 2026
The Boo Revue! is a blacklight musical puppet show set in a ghostly graveyard. Get ready to shiver and shake along to spine-tingling musical numbers and supernatural sights! Presented by the Spine-Tingling Puppet Society, whose work has been seen on numerous film and television projects, including Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock (currently streaming on Apple TV+), this event is recommended for ages 4+, but is fun for the whole family. Approximate run time is 50 minutes, plus a 15-minute meet ‘n’ greet with the puppets afterwards!
Arts Whistler Holiday Market: November 28 and 29
The Arts Whistler Holiday Market is two days of handmade goodness at the Whistler Conference Centre. With 100+ curated vendors from the Sea to Sky region and across BC, along with the young entrepreneurs of Bratz Biz, Whistler’s largest artisan market draws visitors from far and wide. Get your Christmas shopping sorted on Saturday, November 28 (11 AM to 7 PM) and Sunday, November 30 (10 AM – 6 PM).
Holiday Events
A cherished annual tradition, Holiday Singapalooza spreads holiday cheer with a lively set of festive pop songs – perfect for a sing-along on December 9! Barbed Choir will guide you through your favourite holiday tunes and even teach the audience harmonies for a classic holiday hit. All proceeds go to Whistler Community Services Society.
Looking to do some Christmas shopping but missed the market? On December 17, visit Art Whistler’s store, Arthentic, home to the largest collection of local artisan-made goods in Whistler, for exclusive discounts storewide.
These are just a few of the Arts Whistler events happening in the fall and winter. For more, take a look at their events calendar.
Whistler Wine Walk
Whistler Wine Walk is happening every Friday in the month of October, combining an art gallery visit with a glass of wine. Six of Whistler’s art galleries are taking part, with the tours culminating at the Audain Art Museum, for more wine, canapés and music. Read more in our blog on the Wine Walk.
Whistler Institute: Global Perspectives Speaker Series
The Whistler Institute is a registered Canadian charity committed to bringing thought leadership and education to Whistler through its Global Perspectives Speaker Series and educational programs, which are open to all.
This year’s lineup dives into leadership, healthy aging and brain health. These global discussions have real implications for Whistler’s mountain community, helping us reflect, adapt and thrive together, but these events also welcome visitors to join in on the learning. Check out the full lineup on their website.
Whistler Writers Festival: November 5 to 8, 2026
This year’s Whistler Writers Festival is a very special 25th-anniversary edition. This festival welcomes readers and writers in a gathering of storytellers, authors, musicians, books and ideas. The festival showcases award-winning authors from across Canada and local rising stars in performance readings, masterclass writing workshops and industry events. Find your new favourite author this fall.
For 2026, their feature guests include: Tara Gereaux (Wild People Quiet), Michelle Good (Five Little Indians), Stella Leventoyannis Harvey (Finding Callidora), Olympian Clara Hughes (Learning to Breathe), Zak Jones (Fancy Gap), Eve Joseph (Dismantling), Robyn Harding (Strangers in the Villa), Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas (The Lost Haida Manga), Loghan Paylor (The Cure for Drowning), Anakana Schofield (Library of Brothel), Kim Spencer (Werid Rules to Follow), A.D. Sui (Our Infinte and Inevitable Ends), Wiley Wei-Chiun Ho (The Astronaut Children of Dunbar Street) and more. Follow them on social media to see who else is coming.
Tickets go on sale September 16.
Whistler Comedy: Laugh Out LIVE!
Laugh Out LIVE! is Whistler’s go-to comedy institution and training centre, blending the best of improv, sketch, and stand-up comedy into live shows, corporate workshops and event programming dedicated to bringing laughter and learning through comedy. This season, they’ll have shows running from November through April, with seasonal improv workshops launching in September for both kids and adults.
Whistler’s Exclusive Dinner Theatre Experience – Every Saturday ALL Winter!
This winter, Laugh Out LIVE! is bringing dinner theatre to Whistler every Saturday from December through March in partnership with the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa.
Settle in for an elegant three-course dinner, Whistler-themed and full of comedy chaos, as performers bring the room to life around you, weaving characters, audience interaction and plenty of surprises into the experience. This season’s production, A Whistler Wedding, puts guests in the middle of a wonderfully dysfunctional Whistler-themed wedding that spirals hilariously out of control.
The Stand-Up Standoff: Launching in Late November
The night kicks off with a stand-up comedy showdown like no other, as six finalists hit the stage, each delivering their tightest five-minute sets in pursuit of cash and prizes. Once the dust settles and the standoff is done, a touring headlining act steps up to close out the night with a knockout set. It’s a bare-knuckle comedy brawl where the only thing hitting harder than the competition is the punchlines!
Welcome to Whistler’s ultimate stand-up comedy competition and show! The night kicks off with “The Standoff”, as six finalists hit the stage, each delivering their tightest five-minute sets in pursuit of cash, prizes and your vote. Once the dust settles on the competition, a touring headlining act steps up to close out the night with a knockout feature set. It’s a bare-knuckle comedy brawl where the only thing hitting harder than the competition is the punchlines!
Visit Laugh Out LIVE! for the full schedule.
Whistler Cornucopia: November 5 to 15, 2026
Whistler’s festival of food and drink, Cornucopia, is celebrating 30 years! Happening from November 5 to 15, 2026, with over 100 events including drink seminars, culinary stages, tasting parties and multi-course dinners. Cornucopia is a symbol of plenty, and the festival certainly lives up to its name. Take a read of our dedicated post about this festival that celebrates the epicurious: How to Plan for Cornucopia.
Whistler Film Festival: December 2 to 6, 2026
The Whistler Film Festival (WFF) is where creativity meets community. You’ll find ski bums and storytellers, dealmakers and dealbreakers, burgeoning filmmakers and award-winning directors/producers all rubbing elbows at industry galas and on the chairlift.
Prepare for an action-packed lineup of events, including exclusive film premieres, insightful industry sessions, engaging talent programs, intimate meet-and-greets, glitzy parties, and much-anticipated appearances by critically acclaimed actors and directors. Where else in the world can you ski straight off the mountain and onto a red carpet event?
Sign up for their e-news (newsletter sign-up is in the footer of their website – bottom right) or follow their socials for details on films, industry passes and ticket packages.
Winter Carnival at The Point Artist-Run Centre: February
The Winter Carnival is celebrated in mid-February on the shores of Alta Lake at The Point Artist-Run Centre. It is a grassroots, feel-good, community celebration featuring a host of free afternoon activities that celebrate winter through the lens of the arts. Activities include snow and ice dancing, a snow sculpting competition, curling and shinny, hot drinks and food, live painting, music and more!
An evening concert in the heritage lodge features top musical and comedic talent from Whistler and across BC. Find out more on The Point’s website a bit closer to the time.
Go Whistler Tours: Self-Guided Tours
Consider downloading the free Go Whistler Tours app to explore Whistler’s hidden nooks and crannies. The app showcases several self-guided routes you can take to delve into Whistler’s natural and resort history as well as the art and storytelling of the Squamish Nation and Lil’wat Nation. It also includes an in-museum tour for the Audain Art Museum.
This is just a sampling of the arts and culture events happening in Whistler this fall and winter. With more events being announced all the time, be sure to take a look at Whistler.com’s event calendar for the most up-to-date listings and information. Let the energy of this wildly creative community spark your imagination.
