Top 5 Whistler Festivals to Attend on Vacation

Whistler, a ski town that sits 60 miles from Vancouver, has grown into one of the top Canada vacation destinations. Throughout the year, Whistler’s festivals draw thousands of guests for entertainment and socializing. Whether looking to join a sports competition or just want a family-friendly event, there is almost a festival every month of the year. Here are the picks for the top five Whistler festivals travelers can’t miss.

Top 5 Whistler Festivals: Add These to Your Calendar

April: Whistler World Ski and Snowboard Festival

Mid-April welcomes top athletes from all over to show off at the 10-day Whistler World Ski and Snowboard Festival. During the day, enjoy skiing and riding, equipment testings, and live music. Once the sun sets, Whistler’s nightlife scene showcases athletic competitions, comedy acts, DJs and the best of après culture.

May: Whistler Great Outdoors Festival

Thousands attend Whistler Great Outdoors Festival, a.k.a. GO Fest, which aims to get everyone outside. The four-day festival includes outdoor film showings, recreational events and concerts. Sports enthusiasts can watch or participate in competitions that include tennis, disc golf and a sailing regatta. Kids and parents have a blast at family-friendly workshops and parties. Each evening, guests can also see top performers at the GO Fest Concert series held in Whistler Square Village.

August: Crankworx Whistler Freeride Mountain Bike Festival

This festival brings die-hard mountain bike fans together for a week of Whistler biking events. Not a rider? No problem. Watch competitions, events and even try some demos. During free time, bicyclers in Whistler should grab their gear and hit Whistler Mountain Bike Park. The park offer trails for beginners and experts, complete with dirt jumps and bridges.

Whistler Freeride Mountain Bike Festival welcomes guests to receive training and enter contests for all skill levels. For added adventure, register for RBC GranFondo Whistler. During this event, bike more than 75 miles (122-plus kilometers), and travel from Vancouver to Whistler via the gorgeous Sea to Sky Highway.

November: Cornucopia Whistler

Fall brings vibrant colors and kicks off a season full of delicious food. Cornucopia in Whistler showcases the best food and drink in British Columbia. The 11-day festival is held every November, and attracts top chefs and local restaurants, brewers and more.

At Cornucopia, try a signature tasting or drink seminar that introduces foodies to new flavors. Several area restaurants participate, such as Bearfoot Bistro and Buffalo Bill’s. Don’t forget to attend a make-your-own cocktail event or a social gathering that features local dishes.

December: Whistler Film Festival

Film fans can’t miss the annual Whistler Film Fest. Make plans to see short and feature-length films, and hear from some of Hollywood’s top stars. Known as one of “Canada’s coolest film festivals” and one of “Whistler’s best arts and culture events,” this film fest draws more than 10,000 people a year.

Additionally, see Canadian celebrities receive top honors at the awards show, which spotlights filmmakers, industry leaders and special guests.

Ready to attend these awesome Whistler festivals? Check out our Whistler vacation rentals that accommodate groups of all sizes.

Then kick back at these top Whistler nightlife spots.