Whistler does New Year’s Eve right. Over the years it has become the place to go for people all over the Northern Hemisphere. With a range of events and parties for all ages and interests, it is no wonder people are drawn to Whistler to welcome the coming year. Not only is their lots happening, the epic snow conditions (this year Whistler/Blackcomb is already nearing 2 meters of snow), skiing and snowboarding is at its prime in December and January. We consider ourselves somewhat of experts when it comes to what to see and do in Whistler. Positioned in the heart of Whistler Village and amongst all the action we sleep, play and eat in Whistler every day! Here are our recommendations for the top NYE events for 2015/16.
For Families…
Whistler Presents: New Year’s Eve Celebrations are the place to be for families this New Year’s Eve. Taking place across three venues this alcohol free party will be fun for all ages. Maury Young Arts Centre (Millennium Place) will come alive with entertainment, live music, games and activities with an early countdown for the younger kids. The Whistler Conference Centre will turn into an indoor play zone with a variety of games, activities and entertainment; there will be a dance for youth 13-18 from 8:00pm until midnight. Whistler Olympic Plaza will have ice skating and entertainment on and off the ice. There is a small admission to the events, and tickets can be bought online. There will also be a FREE Fire & Ice Show and Fireworks Display at Skiers Plaza at midnight. Be sure not to miss this!
For Foodies…
Celebrate New Year’s in style at the Bearfoot Bistro and experience some of Whistler’s best fine dining. Bearfoot Bistro will be featuring a five-course meal serving up delectable dishes such as Northern Divine Caviar, Yellowfin Tuna and Hamachi, White Alba Truffle and Snake River Farm Wagyu Beef. There will be a live DJ, dancing and party favours plus champagne sabering in the underground wine cellar. Choose from three seatings available, pre-booking is required and tickets are $298 per guest (for the late seating).
For Party Goers…
Garfinkles presents Masquerade in the Mountains which is New Years Eve’s hottest ticket in town. The club will transform into a winter wonderland as guests dress to impress in their finest attire and masquerade masks. With DJs spinning a mix of top 40 dance music, remixes and club hits the atmosphere will be energetic and entertaining! Guests will get lost in the beauty and elegance of the winter mountain setting and when the clock strikes midnight masks will be revealed. Tickets start at $55 and can be purchase in advance or at the door.
For the Budget-Conscious…
Don’t let your budget restrict you this New Year’s Eve. Tapleys Neighbourhood Pub is putting on a Toga Party and admission is FREE with a local’s sticker before Dec 20 or $25 at the door. Put on your finest sheet and Roman attire and spend the evening dancing to the latest hits with copious amounts of merriment!
For Peace & Quiet…
Who says New Years has to be all about the party? It is also a great time to turn inwards, reflect and make resolutions for the year to come. If you want to seek solace this New Year’s why not do it at the Scandinave Spa? Enjoy a lavish massage or relax in the outdoor baths. This Nordic-inspired spa is a true way to rejuvenate yourself in preparation for the year to come- plus, you can get up early and hit the mountain while the rest of the Village crawls out of bed with a hangover!
Need somewhere to stay? Listel Hotel in Whistler is in the heart of Whistler Village just steps from the lifts. Be in the heart of the action this New Year’s and within minutes from all the best tickets in town. Whatever you plan to do this NYE we wish you lots of fun and a fabulous 2016 to come!