More Than Mountains: Whistler, Canada

Whistler, Canada. Renowned for it’s vibrant nightlife, the world’s best pow and home to some of the most immersive, postcard-esque scenes known to man, it’s a special place embracing cultures from all around the world, opening its arms to share the beauty and ore that surrounds the little town getaway, just a short 120km drive from Vancouver. 

Yes it’s known for being one of the best ski resorts in the world, but there is so much more than meets the eye, with the mountains being the very tip of the iceberg.

Activities and festivals that occupy people’s downtime off the mountains play such a huge part in visitors experiences, and over the years have helped build Whistler’s reputation to one of the world’s most attractive cities for visitors and some cases, ‘soon to be residents’.

We want to embrace the town’s extraordinary lifestyle as much as the next person, so to assist in convincing you to either go back, or venture out on your maiden voyage, we’ve put together 5 Must Do festivities alongside our pals at Tourism Whistler. Here’s what you should cover while you’re off the mountains.

The World Ski & Snowboard Festival

If your’e there in April, think the World Ski and Snowboard Festival. Another one for the tip book, Whistler loves to play host to the annual celebration of music, arts, mountain culture and yes you guessed it, snowsports. With nonstop events branching over a 6-day period, the festival brings thousands of people together for thumping nightlife, big air competitions, short film showcasing, art exhibitions and much, much more. Our advice, take more than the weekend to check this one out!

Photo: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane

GO Festival

The Go Festival, celebrating all things outdoors! Held in May, the month where both summer and winter meet to say a quick ‘hi’, the 4 eventful days allow for snow slides, golf, bike riding and water sports, all readily available over the same day thanks to the climate! With plenty of live music, photography clinics, art studios and fun physical activities, Go Festival allows participants to embrace nature and blend it with their very own unique creativity.

Photo: Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

Whistler Village Beer Fest

130+ styles of beer, 65 breweries, 6 days and a whole lot of fun. That’s right, another must do for your Whistler experience is hit the Whistler Village Beer Festival. To put it simply, it’s just a known fact that beer just tastes better with a scenic view, and with the towns surrounding mountains playing part as the perfect backdrop, this is one we highly recommend. Strap in, it’s a big few days!

Photo: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane

Crankworx

Enter the realm of the extraordinary! Touring the world before finally landing back home in Whistler, Crankworx is all about watching individuals ride faster, climb further, fly higher and go bigger than ever before. For those who think Whistler I all snow, think again, it’s also known for offering a wide variety of the best trail terrain in the world. Now in its 15th year, join the world’s best and watch on from the 10-19th August.

Photo: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane

Cornucopia

11 days of the good life. Think food, wine and plenty of new faces. Whether its top high end wines, draft beers or top shelf Whiskey, indulge in your favourites and explore some new options with the arrangement of special events celebrating different avenues of adult beverages. Held in November with a variety of different festivities for different finances, there is truly something for everyone on offer. When it comes to Cornucopia, it’s a must to sample new food, spirits and wine, while mixing with the who’s who of the industry.

Photo: Tourism Whistler/Mike Crane