Whistler attracts world-class sport and food festivals, and also features smaller, local events.
The annual Telus World Ski and Snowboard Festival is Whistler's largest celebration of winter sports, arts and culture. Watch pros catch huge air or enjoy the free concert series and late-night parties.
In summer, elite mountain bikers dazzle huge crowds in the Whistler Bike Park at Kokanee Crankworx. Other summer events include the Whistler Dragon Boat Festival on Alta Lake, the Canadian National BBQ Championships, and Artwalk.
Neighbouring Pemberton Valley provides many of the ingredients for foodie events such as Cornucopia (a multi-day food and wine event in November) and Feast in the Mountains.
Summer Festivals and Events (June – August)
Kokanee Crankworx (July/August): At Kokanee Crankworx, watch some of the world’s best mountain bikers rip through Whistler Bike Park's toughest terrain and perform awe-inspiring stunts. When the action stops on the mountain, the party begins in the village. Bands and DJs from around the world keep the music pumping well into the night.
Whistler Dragon Boat Festival (July): Sounds of beating drums and intense paddling fill the air as more than 1,000 participants race across picturesque Alta Lake.
Feast in the Mountains (July/August): Spend an afternoon sampling fresh, local food while strolling around Rebagliati Park. Booths feature renowned chefs, artisan foods, farmers, brewers and wineries.
Canadian National BBQ Championships (July/August): Meat lovers congregate at Creekside as grill experts battle for cash prizes and the honour of being “Canadian Champion.” Plenty of samples are available. Don’t miss the Whole Hog Feed – a pig is slow-smoked for 24 hours and served up with essential BBQ side dishes.
ArtWalk (July/August): Local artists collaborate with non-traditional galleries to display artwork. Walk around town to view photography, multi-media installations and more in retail outlets, restaurants and hotels.
Fall Festivals and Events (September – November)
Cornucopia (November): Attention foodies! Cornucopia is a four-day culinary adventure of food and wine events including tastings, seminars, dinners and parties. Sample local and global wine and food from renowned chefs.
RBC GranFondo Whistler (September): Four thousand amateur and competitive cyclists pedal from Vancouver to Whistler along the Sea To Sky Highway, one of the most scenic roads in the province. The 120km/75mi route features 2,400m/7,874ft of climbing through the Coast Mountains and offers dramatic ocean views.
Bizarre Bazaar (November): This annual market attracts more than 5,000 visitors looking for one-of-a-kind, hand-made crafts. Shop for items like unique jewellery, clothing, sculptures, and specialty food from more than 100 local artisans.
Winter Festivals and Events (December – February)
Whistler Film Festival (November/December): Movie buffs have options galore as more than 60 films (shorts and features) are showcased over five days. The festival also includes interviews and interactive sessions with filmmakers and celebrity guests.
WinterPride (January/February): Celebrate diversity on and off the slopes during gay and lesbian ski/snowboard week. Events include mountain tours, snowmobile tours, and nightly après-ski parties in the village.
First Night Whistler (December): Ring in the new year in a festive, family-friendly and alcohol-free environment with activities for all ages. Teens can dance the night away at the youth zone, and there's even a “kids' countdown” at 9:30pm for little ones that can’t make it to midnight.
Spring Festivals and Events (March – May)
Telus World Ski & Snowboard Festival (April): The Telus World Ski & Snowboard Festival is Whistler's largest celebration of winter sports, arts and culture. Try out the latest ski and snowboard equipment or watch the pros catch huge air, crush moguls and barrel down the mountain. Off the slopes, experience fashion shows, film screenings, art exhibits, a free afternoon concert series and late-night parties.
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