Are you dreaming of a magical winter getaway this holiday season that has a little something for everyone? Are culture, sport, festive sightseeing, and dining on your to-do list? If so, then why not visit Whistler! From unique indigenous group dining experiences, to a long list of snowsports; and now with increased flexibility for reservations, Whistler has all the answers for an adventurous and memorable holiday vacation. Planning a family getaway? Burn some energy making new memories, and as the day comes to a close, everyone can enjoy an evening spent bundled up and wandering through a festive winter wonderland. Whether it’s campfire adventures, home dining options, or anything in between; here are our top 7 reasons to visit Whistler this holiday season.
Indigenous Cultural Offerings
For a truly unique cultural experience, get ready to explore a connection to the land that dates back thousands of years. Celebrate people and their traditions that thrived in the Whistler area, by taking part in an arts and crafts workshop, or try a group dining experience and discover indigenous cuisine with the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. If driving, check out the Highway 99 self-guided interpretive tour and learn the stories and cultural significance of local iconic landmarks such as the volcanic cone we call Black Tusk. If you want to explore more local art, you can get lost in the beauty and magic of The Dance Screen (The Scream Too), a finely carved red cedar dance screen by Haida Chief 7idansuu (James Hart) at the Audain Art Museum.
More Flexibility While Skiing and Riding The Slopes
Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains continue to be a skier’s dream destination, but a few things have changed from last season, making for a more flexible and enjoyable experience. There are no reservations required to hit the slopes this season, and gondolas and lifts will run at normal capacity. Face coverings will not be required to ski and ride this season; they are only required on gondolas and indoors, including restrooms. Dining reservations are also more flexible this season as the seating capacity for eating out has been increased throughout Whistler. So go ahead, make that reservation with a day’s notice, who knows what fun is waiting for you.
Whistler Festive Lights
Take time to wander the Whistler Village Stroll as the sun sets; it’s a magical time with more than 350,000 holiday lights taking center stage for the evening. The illuminated village takes on an enchanted glow as you meander through a cobblestone winter wonderland that connects both ski hills to four public squares and over 100 shops and eateries. Be sure to dress warm and bring your selfie game; at every turn there are countless opportunities for Christmas card perfect photos.
For a light hiking and immersive storytelling experience, the Vallea Lumina brings Whistler’s forests to life with video, lighting, sound and special effects. Pathways through old-growth forest will take visitors of all ages on a magical night walk. Bring snow gear for exploring children and a carrier for little ones, as there are stairs and bridges to cross.
Slip, Slide and Snuggle At The Whistler Olympic Plaza
The Whistler Olympic Plaza has all the ingredients for a cozy night out under the stars. This is a great place to let the kids (big and small) burn off some energy sliding at the Snow Zone. Glide hand in hand on the open air ice rink or duck into a nearby coffee shop and watch the world go by as you warm up over a cappuccino.
Meet up on a Monday or Wednesday for the Family Après between 3 – 6pm and enjoy live music, dancing, face painting, hula hooping, characters in costume, balloon twisting animals, popcorn, cookies, donuts and games. Have a fun-filled afternoon of dancing and music, whether you have kids or you’re just a kid at heart.
Festive Dine In Meal Options
After a long day in the fresh outdoors, holiday meal prep is the last thing on anyone’s mind. Wouldn’t it be great if you could curl up in matching PJ’s and have the meal come to you? Now you can with Fridge Full Festive Dinners. Don’t spend the day shopping and prepping! Decide on your meal and delivery time and leave the rest to the chefs. All festive dinners are delivered on December 24 between 10 AM and 5 PM. Dinners arrive cold and ready with reheat instructions (a stove top and oven are required). If you are staying at the Listel Hotel, let the front desk know that Whistler Cooks will be dropping by to deliver your meal.
Kids Perks
The best way to nurture the stoke in our little ones is to involve them young with the things we love. Here are a few ways that Whistler helps its visitors save when they bring the little ones along.
–Kids snowmobile free with each paying adult on Callaghan Cruiser tours.
-Kids are free on Sightseeing Tours with each paying adult and take 5% off tickets if booked by November 30th, 2021.
-Anyone 18 years and under enjoys free admission to the Audain Art Museum.
-Kids 12 and under receive one free rental with paying adult of equal length at Coastal Culture.
Snowshoe Adventures
Snowshoeing is an easy and fun way for people of all ages and speeds to explore the great outdoors. If you can walk you can snowshoe! Try a tour like the Snowshoe Cookout and join a group as they snowshoe under the stars to a trappers cabin for a true Canadian Campfire Cookout, complete with smokies, chili, s’mores, and live entertainment. If you would rather craft your own adventure, both Ski Callaghan and Lost Lake Park offer a network of snowshoe trails for a fee. Finding your way is easy with the clearly marked and maintained signage and detailed mapping. If you are looking for dog friendly trails, your furry friends can join on the trails at Whistler Olympic Park.
What are you waiting for? Whether you’re looking for action, enchantment, or cozy snuggles, Whistler is where it’s at. Make the Listel Hotel Whistler your home away from home during your holiday adventures. Play hard and sleep easy. Book now here.