There’s something about a Whistler winter holiday that feels instantly special. Snow-covered streets, festive lights, and a lively village atmosphere set the tone for a season that blends Christmas traditions with New Year’s celebrations, all against a mountain backdrop.

This time of year brings warmth and energy to Whistler Village, creating a holiday experience that feels festive without being overwhelming and lively without losing its sense of ease.

Festive December in Whistler Village

December transforms Whistler Village into a winter celebration. Seasonal décor, glowing lights, and holiday events create a welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to slow down and take it all in. Throughout the month, the village is filled with festive lighting, evening strolls, and classic winter moments that make the season feel unmistakably special.

Outdoor ice skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza adds to the experience, offering a simple and timeless way to enjoy winter in the heart of the village. These small moments, wandering through the lights, warming up between activities, and enjoying the mountain atmosphere, define Christmas during a Whistler winter holiday.

Whether visiting with family, friends, or as a couple, December offers a balance of celebration and mountain charm, with the village feeling active and connected throughout the season.

Seasonal Events & Holiday Experiences

One of the highlights of the holiday season is Wintersphere, which runs from December 20 through January 3 at the Whistler Conference Centre. This indoor holiday experience brings together festive décor, interactive activities, crafts, games, entertainment, and visits from Santa, creating a warm and welcoming space for guests of all ages. Wintersphere is closed on Christmas Day.

Christmas Day itself offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere in the village. Whistler Blackcomb remains open for skiing and snowboarding, while many restaurants feature special holiday menus, making it easy to enjoy both time on the mountain and festive dining.

New Year’s in the Mountains

As December turns into January, the holiday spirit shifts into celebration. New Year’s Eve during a Whistler winter holiday carries a lively yet approachable energy, with village events and dining experiences marking the close of the year.

New Year’s Eve celebrations take place throughout Whistler Village on December 31, with outdoor activities during the day and early evening, followed by signature nighttime events. Highlights include the Luminosity Parade, a glowing LED procession through the village, and the Fire & Ice Show at Skier’s Plaza, where freestyle skiing and snowboarding meet fire effects. An early evening fireworks display adds to the celebration, making the night enjoyable for all ages.

Rather than winding down, Whistler carries its momentum forward. Winter remains in full swing, the village stays active, and the transition into the New Year feels natural and seamless.

Holiday Events at a Glance

• Festive Village Lights & Décor

           Whistler Village glows throughout December with seasonal lighting and holiday displays.

• Outdoor Ice Skating at Olympic Plaza

           A classic winter experience in the heart of the village, open throughout the holiday season.

• Wintersphere Holiday Experience (December 20 – January 3)

           Indoor festive fun at the Whistler Conference Centre featuring crafts, games, entertainment, and Santa visits (closed Christmas Day).

• Christmas Day in Whistler (December 25)

           Skiing and snowboarding at Whistler Blackcomb, plus special holiday dining throughout the village.

• New Year’s Eve Village Celebrations (December 31)

           Luminosity Parade, Fire & Ice Show at Skier’s Plaza, and an early evening fireworks display.

• New Year’s Day (January 1)

           A relaxed start to the year with skiing, brunch, and village strolls.

Stay in the Heart of the Celebration

Staying at Listel Whistler, a Coast Hotel places you right in the centre of Whistler Village throughout your Whistler winter holiday. With seasonal events, dining, and winter experiences just steps away, it’s easy to enjoy everything the village has to offer without overplanning.

After a full day outdoors or an evening of celebration, returning to a comfortable and welcoming space adds to the ease of the holiday experience.

Celebrate the Season in Whistler

From Christmas traditions to welcoming the New Year, a Whistler winter holiday offers something for every type of winter traveler. It’s a season when the village feels alive, winter conditions are building, and the energy of the mountains carries forward into the months ahead.

Whether you’re visiting for the festivities, the celebrations, or the start of winter itself, a Whistler winter holiday is made for experiencing the mountains at their most memorable. Plan your Whistler winter holiday at Listel Whistler, a Coast Hotel and experience Christmas and New Year’s in the heart of Whistler Village.