Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane
There is arguably no better place to create new traditions and family memories than Whistler.
Not only does our town look particularly festive this time of year, but while many places shut down around the holiday season, Whistler truly comes alive. There is so much to do and see with your family that your biggest challenge isn’t finding something to do – it’s making the time to squeeze it all in!
Here are a few of my favourite Whistler holiday experiences – I have a feeling that the children in your life will approve of these events and activities.
Play
Kids hopped up on too many candy canes? Let them burn through their energy at the Whistler Holiday Experience! This free event takes place as the Whistler Conference Centre throughout the holiday season from December 18 through to January 3 (thought it is closed on Christmas and New Year’s Eve).
Stop by between noon and 6 PM and allow plenty of time for your kids to explore the countless activities, from crafts and bouncy castles to video games and mini putt. This indoor experience is perfect for a break from the cold – and the hot cocoa and coffee station is perfect for mom and dad.
Sing
Belt out your favourite holidays hits with the whole family on December 21 at the Whistler Public Library. From 3:30 to 4:30 PM, the Carols & Holiday Cheer event takes over the library – and tasty holiday drinks and snacks are provided.
After you’ve had a chance to exercise your own vocal chords, head to the Maury Young Arts Centre to keep the festive music going. Whistler Singers, the local choir, will be performing A Whistler Christmas at 7:30 PM. Bring a donation to cover your entry fee, and plenty of Christmas spirit!
Skate
Join Santa Claus himself on Sunday, December 20 between 3:00 and 5:00 PM at the Whistler Olympic Plaza for the Skate With Santa at the Plaza event! Pick up a pair of skates for $5 – or bring your own – and get your skate on with Kris Kringle. When the kids have had their share of skating, they can dabble in the holiday crafts, snack on a cookie or hot chocolate, and grab a photo with Santa Claus.
Ski
Whistler and Blackcomb are open throughout the holiday season – even on Christmas Day – so be sure to get plenty of skiing in over the break. December 19 is a particularly festive day to head up the mountain: Dress Like Santa Day means that hundreds of Santa lookalikes will be shredding down the mountain. It’s impossible not to crack a smile when you’re sharing a chairlift with Santa himself.
Make
Let your kids channel their Christmas creativity at Holiday Crafternoon on December 19 at the Whistler Public Library. Between 3:30 and 4:00 PM, kids will have a chance to put together custom cards and gift wrap.
The fun continues on December 22, 23, and 27 at the Maury Young Arts Centre. The Whistler Arts Council will host holiday arts and crafts workshops for kids 3 and older (parental supervision is required). Entry for this one is by donation, and your kid will leave with a fabulous holiday memento.
Party
No need to leave the kids behind on New Year’s Eve: celebrate with the whole family in Whistler Village! Whistler Presents: New Year’s Eve Celebrations offers family fun throughout the entire evening. Purchase wristbands for your family and check out music, arts, crafts, food, dancing, and skating at various venues around town. There are even a few pre-midnight balloon drops so that your family can party and still get a good night’s sleep!
From my family to yours, I wish you a wonderful holiday season and a fantastic 2016!