Spending Christmas in Whistler is the next best thing to spending it in the North Pole. Think back to your fantasies of a white Christmas and they will closely resemble that of Whistler, BC. A blanket of snow covering the ground with soft white flakes drifting from the sky. Twinkling colourful lights hung on buildings and streets and a joyful cheer shared among everyone near. Don’t forget the one thing that truly makes Whistler the best place in the world to spend Christmas- the skiing and snowboarding. December is consistently the best month for snowfall and powder conditions on Whistler/Blackcomb. Already this year both mountains have been blessed with abundant snowfall and Christmas 2015 is sure to be one of the best in recent years.
Whether you plan to spend a few weeks in Whistler over Christmas or are just coming up for the day or night, here is our guide to what’s on over the Christmas Holidays. Our best tips for a Christmas in Whistler is to book early and stay longer. The earlier you book the cheaper your holiday will be (and the less crowds you will face), and the longer you stay the better deals you will get on accommodation. Once your accommodation is sorted for your stay- you can focus on all the Christmas fun to be had.
FREE (or under $10) ACTIVITIES
Fire and Ice Shows
Fire and Ice Shows are free events each Sunday starting in December and running until March. Taking place at the base of Whistler by the gondolas you can watch world-class athletes jump, twirl and twist through burning rings of fire. This free party is a family friendly event with DJs, fire-spinners and fireworks!
Family Après
Après is no longer for the +19 crowd only. Experience winter outdoor fun the Canadian way with ice skating, snowman building, tobogganing and other weekly activities. Family Après takes place Monday and Wednesdays 4:00- 6:00pm in Olympic Plaza.
Bonfire nights at Whistler Olympic Park
Every Wednesday in December enjoy Bonfire Nights at Whistler Olympic Park. Bring your marshmallows and experience the family-friendly tradition of a good ‘ol fashion winter bonfire.
Dress like Santa Day
For a bit of fun, every year in December Whistler/Blackcomb hosts a dress like Santa day. This December 19th if you dress like Santa or Mrs. Claus and are one of the first 100 to arrive at the Garibaldi Lift Company you will be awarded a free lift ticket. Take note, a Santa hat alone will not suffice. Eligible candidates must have red or black pants (or skirt), a red jacket with white trim, a black belt and a beard for Santa and a hat for Mrs. Claus!
The Whistler Holiday Experience
During the holiday season the Whistler Conference Centre hosts The Whistler Holiday Experience from 10:00am to 6:00pm daily. This family fun zone has a host of fun activities with appearances from Santa throughout the holidays.
Skate with Santa
On December 20th at the outdoor skating rink in Whistler Plaza you can skate with Santa Claus himself. The event takes place from 3:00pm to 5:00pm and there will be photo opportunities, hot chocolate, crafts and cookies for all to enjoy.
OTHER HOLIDAY MUSTS
Scandinave Spa
There is nothing better than soaking your body in warm therapeutic baths after a long day on the mountain. Bliss-out at the Scandinave Spa this holiday season while taking in views of snowy mountain vistas surrounded by old growth forests. This Nordic-inspired spa experience is a must-try activity while in Whistler this holiday season.
Mountain-top Fondue Experience
Nothing says Christmas like adventuring 6000ft up a snowy mountain by snow mobile or snow cat to a charming wooden hut where a fireside fondue dinner awaits. Be entertained by local musicians while you enjoy wine and fondue up in the alpine, away from it all. Contact Canadian Wilderness Adventures to arrange your mountain-top fondue dinner.
Horse-drawn Sleigh ride
The kids will love exploring Blackcomb Mountain on a horse drawn sleigh ride this Christmas. View the twinkling lights of Whistler Village and stop at a cozy wood cabin to enjoy a hot-chocolate by the fire. Contact Blackcomb Sleighrides to book.
Helicopter on a Glacier
While in Whistler this holiday season make sure to experience the ultimate winter experience. Take a helicopter over top Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain and view the jaw-dropping Cheakamus Glacier. For those who really want an experience of a life-time there is an opportunity to touch down on Rainbow Glacier. Prepare to be amazed at some of the most spectacular Canadian scenery accessible today. Contact Blackcomb Aviation to book.
There is no shortage of things to see and do this Christmas in Whistler. If you haven’t already, make sure to get your hands on a Whistler Adventure Passport for great savings on tours, attractions, dining and retail while in Whistler. Save on the Scandinave Spa, the Mountain-top Fondue experience, Sleighrides and Helicopter tours plus many more (over $1000 in savings to be exact). If you haven’t yet booked your Christmas Holiday in Whistler do it now! Hotels sell out fast this time of year and the earlier you make your plans, the more you will save. Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas this year- see you in Whistler!