Updated January 2024
While winter may be confined to three months in other parts of the world, in Whistler we revel in it for six! Each month offers unique must-do events, activities, and snow sports, making it hard to know when to visit. But not anymore! Whether you want to see and do a little bit of everything, or you’re focused on skiing and boarding the best conditions the Coast Mountains have to offer – there is a winter month for you. We’re here to help you figure it out with this six-month guide to winter in Whistler.
NOVEMBER
This is when it really begins to feel like winter in Whistler. Anticipation for the ski season is high and there’s that “this is why we live here” energy in the air that is incredibly contagious.
But it’s not all about the snow just yet. We’re still celebrating the arts and culinary scene with mega events like Fall for Arts, Whistler’s celebration of food and drink – Cornucopia, and the start of the Whistler Film Festival.
Events:
- Cornucopia Food and Drink Festival presented by BlueShore Financial
- Official Opening day for Whistler Blackcomb
- American Thanksgiving
- Arts Whistler Holiday Market
Outdoor Activity Ideas:
- Bungee Jumping
- Eagle Viewing Float Tour
- Discover Luge, Skeleton or Bobsleigh Program
- Sightseeing in the Whistler Valley
- See the full list here
Best Time To:
- Get your winter gear ready
- Take ski and snowboard lessons
- Enjoy Whistler’s arts and culture scene
- Take advantage of early season deals, accommodation and activity offers (like Kids Perks)
DECEMBER
Whistler in December in one word = magical. The village is a-twinkle with holiday lights and the hot chocolate is flowing. We’re taking in the best Canadian and international films at the Whistler Film Festival and racking up days on the hill. There’s a lot of fun to be had with the Whistler Holiday Experience, ice skating and more.
Events:
- Whistler Film Festival
- Viessmann Luge World Cup and BMW Sprint World Cup
- Whistler Holiday Experience
- Christmas
- New Year’s Eve
Outdoor Activity Ideas:
- On-Mountain Sightseeing
- Ice Skating
- Snowmobile Tours
- Sleigh Rides
- See the full list here
Best Time To:
- Feel festive and enjoy the Whistler Village lights
- Shop local and find the perfect holiday gift
- Have a family snow-day, and try skating, tubing, snowshoeing and more
- Take advantage of early season deals at the beginning of the month
- Book dining reservations in advance and plan for Christmas dinner
JANUARY
Fresh start, fresh snow. January in Whistler is officially midwinter which means you have every outdoor winter activity to choose from. The resort also welcomes one of the biggest parties of the year – the Whistler Pride & Ski Festival, complete with a parade, stand-up comedy acts, a snowball and more. A trip to Whistler is a guaranteed way to start the year off right!
Events:
- New Years Day | January 1
- Whistler Holiday Experience
- Whistler Pride & Ski Festival
Outdoor Activity Ideas:
- Ice fishing
- Cross Country Skiing
- Snowshoeing
- See the full list here
Best Time To:
- Ski/snowboard and après every day
- Enjoy Whistler after-dark
- Start checking off New Year’s resolutions – adrenaline rush anyone?
- Go for a winter wonderland walk
FEBRUARY
Welcome to deep winter. If you’re coming to explore the backcountry, now’s usually the best time to do it. You can take a course or learn a new skill with one of Whistler’s outdoor education providers to get you out exploring, safely. With Valentine’s Day and Family Day also falling in this month, it’s a great time to celebrate your loved ones and get in some quality time together.
Events:
- Valentine’s Day | February 14
- Family Day
- Peak to Valley Race
- Coast Outdoors P’ayakentsut Cross Country Ski Event
Outdoor Activity Ideas:
- Heli-Skiing/Snowboarding
- Ice Cave Tours
- Ice Climbing
- See the full list here
Best Time To:
- Backcountry ski and snowboard
- Sample seasonal craft beer
- Get a taste of the Olympics with ski jumping, skeleton and more
- Soak at the Scandinave Spa with your significant other
MARCH
If you don’t live in the Coast Mountains this stat may surprise you – March is typically Whistler’s snowiest month. Winter around here likes to go out with a bang. The sun starts to make an appearance again and every once in a while we’re treated to an overnight snowfall before a bluebird day. The days are also getting longer making it the perfect time to enjoy après and the alpenglow from one of Whistler’s patios.
Events:
- Telus Winter Classic
- St. Patrick’s Day | March 17
Outdoor Activity Ideas:
- Ziplining
- Tree Adventure Tour
- Tube Park
- See the full list here
Best Time To:
- Make the most of the Coast Mountain powder
- Enjoy a Guinness at the Dubh Linn Gate on St. Patrick’s Day
- Learn something new at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre or Whistler Museum
- Watch the alpenglow from your favourite firepit
APRIL
Not technically winter, this is the month for those who want to ski and snowboard every day but also want to walk around the village in a t-shirt. It’s also the beginning of winter / summer multi-sport days, you can go up the mountain in the morning and hit the lake in the afternoon. The World Ski and Snowboard Festival hits town mid-month so if you like snow, parties, art and mountain culture – you’ve got to be here.
Events:
Outdoor Activity Ideas:
- Cross Country Biking
- Bungee Jumping
- See the full list here
Best Time To:
- Hit up the terrain parks
- Enjoy the snow AND sun
- Take advantage of late season deals
- Learn what “party in April, sleep in May” means at the World Ski and Snowboard Festival
There you have it, the plethora of winter in Whistler. If you still have questions about when you should visit or how to plan your ultimate vacation, Whistler.com travel agents are ready to chat when you are. See you on the slopes!
Book your winter trip now for savings of up to 65%, with Whistler Blackcomb Day Passes starting from $93 CAD per day, 35% off lodging and 40% off rentals (kids rent free) with a free dining voucher on stays of five or more nights. Epic Coverage is included for free so you can plan ahead with peace of mind.
Come experience Whistler Blackcomb’s extensive terrain and adventure at every turn to see why we're known as one of the best resorts on the planet. Secure your mountain getaway with Whistler.com for personalized service and the local knowledge of our Whistler-based team.