Getting into the Holiday Spirit in Whistler

Believe us when we say there is no better place on earth to celebrate the holidays than right here in Whistler.

It may have something to do with the fact that at this time of year Whistler Village looks an awful lot like a snow globe, complete with twinkling lights and snowflakes dancing from the sky. Whatever it is, it’s not hard to get in the holiday spirit when you’re spending the festive season in Whistler.

Take a Sleigh Ride

Come on, it’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride… you know how the song goes, now live it out in real life!

Bundle up under a cozy blanket and let a horse-drawn carriage transport you through a Whistler wonderland. Choose between a scenic sleigh ride up Blackcomb Mountain or take a trot through Nicklaus North – both tours can be capped off with a hot cocoa or a fondue dinner.

Have a Merry, Musical Christmas

Maximize your Christmas spirit on Christmas Eve at the Westin Resort & Spa starting 6:30 PM. The Christmas Eve Carol Service, featuring the Whistler Children’s Chorus and Whistler Singers, has a little bit of everything, including your favourite carols, choral music, and holiday readings. Entrance is by donation.

Let Someone Else Make Dinner

Forget wasting your holiday in the kitchen – this year, let one of Whistler’s exquisite restaurants take care of the prep work, cooking, and (best of all) cleaning. All you need to do is make a reservation (the sooner the better) and show up hungry. Your options are almost endless – many restaurants, including Araxi, Sidecut, Alta Bistro, the Wildflower, Rim Rock, Aura, put together a special menu specifically for the holidays.

Experience the Whistler Holiday Experience

Get your kids hopped up on Buddy the Elf’s favourite food groups – candy, candy canes, candy corn, and syrup – and head to the Whistler Conference Centre for the Whistler Holiday Experience. Open December 18 to January 3 (though closed December 25 and 31), kids will go nuts for dozens of activities, including crafts, bouncy castles, mini putt, games, and a whole lot more. Best of all? The whole thing is free!

Soak Up the Spirit(s) at the Mallard Lounge

If you’re looking for a mellow, holiday-infused experience, head to the Mallard Lounge at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. First, marvel at the festive décor in the lobby – including the giant gingerbread house (yes, it’s edible!) Settle into a cozy seat and let the live entertainers serenade you while you sip something merry, like the seasonal “Snow Storm” cocktail or a Rye Maple Chai.

Oh, one more thing – there is a chocolate bar menu. You’re welcome!

Ski With Santa

No, you’re not dreaming – that really is Santa Claus ripping down The Saddle. On December 19^th, hundreds of honorary Clauses will be decked out in their red with white trim in honour of Dress Like Santa day.

Want to get in on the action? The first 100 people to arrive at the GLC (at the base of Whistler Mountain) in full Santa garb – which must include red or black pants (or a skirt for Mrs. Claus), a red jacket with white trim, a black belt, a hat, and a beard (for Santa only, of course) – receive a free lift ticket!

Enjoy the holidays!