Christmas and New Year’s in Whistler
Whistler is the perfect place to enjoy a truly Canadian Christmas with twinkling lights, a snow-covered Village and holiday events and activities to entertain the entire family:
- Ski and snowboard every day with both mountains open on Christmas and New Year's and extended hours in the Village
- A host of special events to get into the spirit of the season, many of them free
- Fun activities for the whole family like tubing, ice skating and snowmobiling
Annual Holiday Events
From Christmas to New Year’s, there are plenty of things happening to entertain people young and old, from favourites like the weekly Fire & Ice Show and Family Après to outdoor ice skating and even a visit from Santa.
Holiday Events in Whistler
Whistler Holiday Experience: late December until early January
Location: Whistler Conference Centre
Time: 10 AM - 6 PM
This indoor family fun zone provides entertainment for kids and parents alike during the holiday season. Kids can enjoy a mini putt course, table games, bouncy castles, crafts and video games free for 15 days over Christmas and the New Year. Parents are catered for too - they can relax in the lounge area and enjoy a coffee or hot cocoa while the kids play.
Whistler Presents: New Year's Eve Celebrations
Ring in the New Year in Whistler Village with a free and family-style celebration at several venues within the Village happening from noon to midnight. Brought to you by the Resort Municipality of Whistler and the Province of British Columbia, each venue is filled with lively entertainment, games, crafts, and activities.
The festivities begin at noon with a special Family Après at Whistler Olympic Plaza and a variety of indoor activities at the Whistler Conference Centre. Later in the evening, bundle up and head to Skier’s Plaza for a special edition Fire & Ice show, plus dazzling fireworks displays at 8 PM and midnight. See complete schedule of events at the Resort Municipality of Whistler website.
The Whistler New Year’s Eve Celebration is a family-friendly and alcohol-free event. The consumption of alcohol is only permitted at licensed venues.
More New Year’s Eve Fun
- Special edition Fire & Ice Shows at 7:30 and 11:30 PM with fireworks at 8 PM and midnight – best viewed from Skier’s Plaza
- Ice skating at Olympic Plaza
New Year's Parties & Nightlife
Thanks to Whistler's eclectic nightlife scene, there are parties guaranteed at every pub and club in town and festive celebrations at local restaurants.
2019 New Year's Parties in Whistler
Free Transit
No need to drive – take free public transit within the Village from 6 PM to 4 AM. More information can be found at the Resort Municipality of Whistler website.
Christmas Meals
Sitting down with friends and family for a special meal is a tradition for many people over the holiday season. Many of the restaurants in Whistler offer special Christmas and New Year’s dinners, brunches, lunches and catering options to make you feel right at home.
View our dining guide for a full listing of restaurants and please contact them directly for reservations. Also, consider dining in with meal delivery and catering options.
Meal Delivery and Catering
Stay in and cozy by the fire and have a festive dinner delivered to you.
Whistler Insider Tips
For the best experience and to dine at your preferred time, we recommend making reservations in advance.
Winter Stay and Ski Packages
Explore winter packages for the best deals on accommodation, rentals and ski school during the festive season.