Christmas and New Year’s in Whistler
Whistler is the perfect place to enjoy a truly Canadian Christmas with twinkling lights, a snow globe-inspired village and holiday events and activities to entertain the entire family:
- Ski and snowboard every day – both mountains are open on Christmas and New Year's
- Get into the spirit of the season with a variety of special events, many of them free
- Experience fun, outdoor activities for the whole family like snow tubing, ice skating and snowmobiling
- Enjoy traditional festive dining in the Village, or order a holiday meal to go
Annual Holiday Events
From Christmas to New Year’s, there are plenty of things to entertain people young and old, with tours of festive light displays, ice skating in the Village, visits from Santa, and more winter favourites like dog sledding and snow tubing.
Please check back in fall for updated information. View our full Calendar of Events for a listing of all events in Whistler.
Wintersphere Whistler
The ultimate, indoor winter wonderland experience awaits you this holiday season. Wintersphere celebrates this magical time of year with free festive activities for the entire family! Join in the fun with visits from Santa, entertainers, a holiday café, kids crafts, Wintersphere's signature holiday maze and much more. This spectacular, festive pop-up is a true holiday favourite for locals and visitors alike. Learn more at wintersphere.ca.
Date: TBA
Time: 10 AM – 5 PM
Location: Whistler Conference Centre
Cost: Free
Celebrate New Year's Eve in Whistler
Celebrate the last night of the year surrounded by the energy of the mountains and the spirit of this community. Whistler’s New Year’s Eve brings people together with activities that invite you to move, connect, and take in the winter atmosphere. The entire day is packed with a wide range of activities for all ages and interests, both indoors and outdoors. Join a free morning yoga class, relax at the Sound Bath Experience, and take part in the Luminosity Parade procession later in the evening, as it dances its way to Skier’s Plaza for the fireworks.
Date: December 31
Time: 9 AM – 9 PM
Location: Whistler Village
Cost: Free
New Year's Eve Highlights
- Ice skate at Whistler Olympic Plaza
- Bring your own sled to the Snow Zone at Whistler Olympic Plaza for free, frosty fun
- Be entertained indoors at Wintersphere Whistler with festive activities for the entire family
- Join the New Year’s Eve Luminosity Parade that winds its way through Whistler Village. Begins at 7:45 PM.
- See the legendary Fire & Ice Show
- Enjoy an early evening, dazzling fireworks display at 9 PM
Full details and a complete schedule of events will be available closer to the holidays.
New Year's Dining and Parties
Thanks to Whistler's eclectic culinary and nightlife scene, there are delicious New Year's Eve dinners and celebrations available at many local restaurants and clubs. Check back in late fall as events are listed closer to the festive period.
Free Transit
No need to drive – take free, local transit on December 31 all day to the end of service on January 1. More information can be found on the Resort Municipality of Whistler website.
Festive Meals
Sitting down with friends and family for a special meal is a tradition for many people over the holiday season. Many Whistler restaurants 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.
Know Before You Go: Dining in Whistler
Winter Stay and Ski Packages
Explore winter packages for the best deals on accommodation, rentals and ski school during the festive season.