Whistler is the ideal seasonal antidote
Santas, snowmen, skis — and throw in a little fire
Looking to get away from the city for a bit to enjoy some holiday festivities? Whistler might be the perfect place for you to experience the joys of a winter wonderland! Here are just some of the things you can do at Whistler during the holidays.
Fire and Ice Show - Dec, 13 onward
What do you get when you combine world-class athletes and burning rings of fire? You either get battle scenes from Game of Thrones, or you get Whistler’s Fire and Ice show. People on skis and snowboards jumping through hoops of burning fire is a holiday memory that will stand out, that’s for sure. They also top it off with a fireworks display, to boot!
Family Apres - Dec, 21 onward
Looking for kid-friendly activities? Whislter’s Family Apres hosts a variety of events week to week, such as snowmanbuilding competitions, tobogganing, storytelling, music, mini hockey, snacks, hot beverages and more. You’ll say you’re going for the kids, but the adults will end up having just as much fun. Who doesn’t love hot chocolate in the snow?
Dress Like Santa Day - Whistler Dec. 19
In what will surely be one of the more visually stimulating days of the year, Dress Like Santa day offers free lift tickets to the first 100 people to arrive at the Garibaldi Lift Company who are dressed up like Santa or Mrs. Claus. You can’t just throw on a red jacket and call it a day, though, they expect a full costume of a red suit, belt, boots, hat, and beard (for Santa), otherwise you’re not eligible. For those who don’t feel like dressing up, it will still be a great day to snap some pictures of yourself surrounded by an army of Santas and Mrs. Clauses. Horror-movie setting, or Christmas? You decide.
Skate With Santa at the Plaza - Dec. 20
If you don’t feel like spending a day with 100 Santas, maybe watching your kids skate with one Santa is more your speed. Although Santa is not known for his mobility, he was born in a winter climate, so something tells me he can handle himself on the ice just fine. Maybe he’ll have tips for Bo Horvat on how to score goals? Santa will be available for photo ops (gotta update those Facebook profiles with Santa pictures), and hot drinks, cookies, and holiday crafts will also be available. And yes, you can rent skates on the mountain for $5.
Christmas Eve Carol Service - Dec. 24
What holiday season would be complete without some oldfashioned carols? Whistler’s Christmas Eve Carol Service promises a night of traditional carols, choral music sung by choirs, and readings telling the story of Christ. So yes, it leans pretty heavily on the religious side, but if you’re fine with that, there should be some good music to be had!
Coca-Cola Tube Park - Winter
Tubes. Snow. Fast speeds. If there is one thing you do at Whistler this year, make it this one. Who doesn’t love flying down a mountain, wondering if your inner tube is going to flip over? Adult and kid sized tubes are available, making this the best potential for awesome family memories. Also it’s sponsored by Coke, in case you missed that. Subtle advertising Coke. Subtle.
Bonfire Nights at Whistler Olympic Park - Starts mid-winter
Want to enjoy roasting marshmallows over a nice fire? Want to look back on fond memories of Canadian domination at the Olympics? Then the Bonfire Nights at Whistler Olympic Park should be on your to-do list this holiday season. There is something about bonding in the freezing cold temperatures with family members that makes for a great time. Mostly because you’re too cold to argue about anything and are grateful for any heat source you find.