An Insiders Guide to Whistler’s Ski & Snowboard Festival

The World Ski & Snowboard Festival in Whistler is the largest snow sports festival in North America. Get an insiders guide to all events right here!

The World Ski & Snowboard Festival encompasses sports, music, and arts to create a unique festival that glorifies the end of the ski season. With events happening morning, afternoon, and night, no matter what brought you to Whistler this festival is for everyone, snow-hounds, and earth dwellers alike. The resort of Whistler is the perfect facilitator to welcome sport enthusiasts, music connoisseurs, and art critics.

Photo Credit: Mike Crane | TW

The World Ski & Snowboard Festival celebrates breaking barriers and defying limitation in winter sports and is a one of a kind display of how progression has pushed boundaries to new heights. Literally. The festival is not just about sports but also features different mediums of art from filmmaking to photography to painting. Don’t miss out on the free outdoor concert series happening at the base of Whistler Mountain. All events are known to cause high levels of stoke and FOMO, don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Photo Credit: Justa Jeskova | TW

ART + Soul

This is a must-see art show! The ART + Soul art show is free and showcases 40 plus artists from the Sea to Sky Corridor. The art show encourages artists to display their most treasured art pieces. Mediums range from photography, painting, and sculpting. Who said painting outside of the lines wasn’t acceptable? Come discover hidden talent from the Sea to Sky Corridor and strike up a conversation with one of the featured artists.

Photo Credit: Mike Crane | TW

Swatch 72 Hour Filmmaker Showdown

Over the years we’ve seen some masterpieces come out of this competition. When you give a group of people 72 hours to shoot, edit, and produce a 3-5 minute short film what more can you expect then pure magic! In the past, films have ranged from action, sport, and comedy all of which describe the daily lifestyle of Whistlerites perfectly. Get ready to laugh, possibly cry with laughter, and have a really great time. The audience will get the opportunity to vote for which filmmaker you think should win the Peoples Choice Award.

Photo Credit: Mike Crane | TW

Pro Photographer Showdown

A night showcasing four of the best action sports photographers in the world and one wildcard photographer. Photographers show off their best sports, culture, and human spirit captures in a 3-5 minute slideshow set to music. Although the winner of the event is chosen by a panel of judges there is an opportunity to cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award.

Photo Credit: Justa Jeskova | TW

Outdoor Concert Series

After a day of exploring enjoy live music on the Main Stage located in skiers plaza at the base of Whistler Mountain. A perfect way to unwind after a day of biking or skiing and enjoy the longer, warmer days. The main stage usually kicks off around apres time and will have you shaking your booty and cutting shapes for a good part of the afternoon. Acts range from acclaimed musicians to DJ’s, guaranteeing good vibes for all ages.

Photo Credit: Justa Jeskova | TW

Slush Cup

One of the most fun events during the World Ski & Snowboard Festival is the Slush Cup, notorious for fueling stoke, laughter, and mega costume envy! Suit up and take the plunge, literally. Dress up and attempt to ski or snowboard across an ice cold pool made by snowmelt. Cheer on the bold and the brave, who will make it to the other side? The Slush Cup is one of the only events in the festival that encourages willing onlookers to participate and try their chance at defying the odds. Endless bragging rights for those who make it across.

Photo Credit: Mike Crane | TW

Big Air

This is the moment festival-goers have been waiting for, the main event, the BIG Air Competition. Watch some of the best athletes in the world compete for bragging rights at the World Ski & Snowboard Festival. Who will throw down the sickest tricks this year? This competition pushes pro athletes to the brink of something spectacular and celebrates trick innovators at the World Ski & Snowboard Festival. Who will take home the crown?

Ask our Crystal Lodge reservations team about things to do and events to see in Whistler during the Whistler Ski & Snowboard Festival. Call 1.800.667.3363 or email [email protected] to book your accommodation and start dreaming of your vacation today.