Whistler Blackcomb Foundation Presents the TELUS Winter Classic

What’s better than skiing, parties, and fun times with your friends?

How about doing all of the above in the name of charity!

The infamous TELUS Winter Classic returns on January 22 and 23 for the 23^rd year in a row, and if the first 22 years are anything to go by, it’s going to be a fantastic weekend.

The event’s purpose is to raise money for the Whistler Blackcomb Foundation, which in turn distributes these funds to well-deserving registered charities in the Sea to Sky corridor. To date, the Whistler Blackcomb Foundation had raised over $9.4 million for worthy causes in the community. Now that’s something we can stand behind!

The Winter Classic is only two days long, but it manages to pack in a ton of excitement. Here’s the breakdown of what will be happening – and how you can get involved.

Friday, January 22

8:30 AM to 3:30 PM – Ski With a Pro

Trust us, you’ve never experienced Whistler Blackcomb like this. First thing’s first: you’re going to want to fuel up before a full day on the mountain, so head to the Westin for a buffet breakfast. Next, you’ll meet with a local ski pro who will be your group’s guide for the day. Your pro can give you a few pointers on your technique, and will show you some of the best powder stashes on the mountain. With the snow and weather we’ve been having as of late, you’re in for a fantastic day on the slopes.

3:00 PM to 4:30 PM – Après Ski

When the lifts stop running, most people have to head down the mountain – but not Whistler Classic participants. They’re treated to a special après in the Roundhouse Lodge on top of Whistler Mountain. Snacks and drinks will taste extra good after a full day on the hill, and you just might get lucky and pick up a prize or an award!

7:30 PM to 10:00 PM – Whistler Winetastic

Take a shower, grab a quick dinner, and make your way to the Emerald Ballroom at the Westin for an evening of deliciousness. Whistler Winetastic is the place to sample not only exquisite wines, but also beers, spirits, and cheese. Local restaurants (including Bearfoot Bistro, the Grill & Vine, and Purebread – is your mouth watering yet?) will provide some tasty treats to keep you going. VIP access grants you a bonus 45 minutes of “first sip” before the event doors official open.

Saturday, January 23

8:00 AM to 9:00 AM – Start-Gate Breakfast

We hope you got a good night’s sleep, because today is a big day! Start off on the right foot with a buffet breakfast at the Westin, then make your way up the mountain. Team participants get special privileges to fast-track them through the queues – how’s that for a perk?

10:00 AM to 12:00 PM – Group Race Classic

The Group Race Classic is the chance for you and your teammates to show your stuff. Yes, speed matters, but it’s not just about how fast you can get through the course: it’s about how closely you can predict your total race time. That means that the winner isn’t necessarily the fastest to the finish line – it’s the one closest to guessing how long it will take them to complete the course.

6:30 PM to Midnight – Shake, Rattle & Roll Mountaintop Gala

After the ski boots have come off and the skis have been stored away, it’s time to head back up the mountain for some dinner, dancing, and awesome auction prizes. This year’s theme is ‘50s sock hop explosion, and it’s the perfect place to swap stories about the weekend, celebrate with your friends, and meet new ones. Psst – we hear there may be a malt shop!

Ready to take part in the TELUS Winter Classic? Find three friends and sign up as a Corporate Team or a Citizen Team on the official TELUS Winter Classic website. You can also purchase tickets separately to Whistler Winetastic and th