TOURISM WHISTLER TRAVEL TRADE NEWSLETTER | View Online
Tourism Whistler

Travel Trade Newsletter

Winter 2026/27

The countdown to winter is on! Whistler Blackcomb kicks off the 2026/2027 season on November 20, 2026. Book your ski package, with hotel, ski passes, rentals, and transfers, at the best price before November 30, 2026. Secure your clients days on the slopes early with rates starting at just $101 CAD per day with a Whistler Blackcomb Day Pass (restricted). These passes are only available until early December, so the sooner you book, the better!

Read on for what’s new and happening in Whistler, or visit whistler.com for more.

What's New & Happening

BC’s Time Change Brings New Operating Hours

With BC no longer turning clocks back in the fall, Whistler Blackcomb’s lift hours are expected to shift slightly this season.

Early-season operations are scheduled to run from 9:00am to 3:30pm, instead of the traditional 8:30am to 3:00pm. After January 15th, operating hours are expected to gradually extend, with traditional lift hours returning around mid-Febuary.

Snow School lessons will also shift 30 minutes later until the mountain returns to an 8:30am opening in mid-February. As of right now, Spring operating hours are expected to remain unchanged.


Exciting New Upgrade on Blackcomb Mountain

Blackcomb’s Showcase T-Bar is set to be replaced with a new fixed-grip quad chairlift, scheduled to open for the 2026/27 winter season. This exciting upgrade will provide easier, more convenient access to some of Blackcomb’s most iconic alpine terrain.


Whistler Connection Expands Transfer Services

Beginning November 26th, Whistler Connection will offer transfers for all flights arriving up until 11:00pm, giving guests more flexibility when travelling to Whistler.

They’ve also expanded their fleet with additional vehicles, increasing availability and helping reduce sold-out dates during busy travel periods.


Member Spotlight: Extremely Canadian

Extremely Canadian is introducing exciting new backcountry experiences for winter 2026–27, including overnight avalanche training, private hut-based adventures, and guided backcountry tours. Avalanche Skills Training courses begin in November, with group tours and Steeps Clinics launching December 12.


Other Noteworthy News

 


Culinary

Wild Blue: One of North America's Top 50 Restaurants

Whistler’s culinary scene has earned some well-deserved recognition! Wild Blue Restaurant + Cocktail Bar has been named No. 47 on North America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026, becoming the first Whistler restaurant to make the prestigious list.


New Culinary Addition: Trattoria Di Como

Opened in March 2026, Trattoria di Como brings a fresh taste of Northern Italy to Whistler Village. This reimagined local favourite combines handcrafted pastas and refined regional dishes with the warmth and hospitality of a traditional Italian dining experience.


Rimrock Cafe's 40th Anniversary

A Whistler dining favourite since 1986, Rimrock Café celebrates 40 years in 2026. Rimrock continues to delight locals and visitors with seasonal cuisine, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere. Four decades later, it remains a cherished part of Whistler’s culinary scene.


New & Returning Events

Whistler Film Festival

The Whistler Film Festival returns December 2–6, 2026, bringing five days of film premieres, special guests, panel discussions and industry events to the mountains. The festival celebrates Canadian and international storytelling, with a special spotlight on British Columbia’s creative talent. The full 2026 film lineup will be announced November 3.

For more information, click here.


Whistler's Festive Season

Celebrate the magic of winter in Whistler! Enjoy festive lights, Village skating, visits with Santa, dog sledding, snow tubing, and holiday fun for all ages.

Refer back to this link as events get added closer to the holidays.


Whistler Pride Festival

Whistler's Pride Festival will be running January 24 – 30, 2027, for a vibrant week of skiing, celebration, and community. From free daily guided ski and snowboard groups to lively après, drag shows, DJs, and themed parties, there's something for everyone. The colourful Rainbow Ski Out and Pride Parade on January 29 brings the celebration to Whistler Village, continuing a 30+ year tradition of pride, connection, and inclusivity in the mountains.

For more information, click here.


Events Schedule

  • Whistler Winterlight: November 27 - 29
  • Whistler Film Festival: December 2 - 6
  • Wintersphere Whistler: December 19 - January 2 
  • New Year's Eve Celebrations in Whistler Village: December 31
  • Fire & Ice Show: Every Sunday, January – March
  • Whistler Pride Festival: January 24 - January 30

Full Whistler Events Schedule


Useful Tools

Go Whistler App - Self Guided Tours

These curated tours showcase unique experiences and hidden gems throughout Whistler. From art galleries to scenic nature walks, discover new ways to explore and connect with the resort. Find more information about the app here.

Ask Whistler - Whistler's Live Mobile Chat

Ask Whistler is a mobile live chat service connecting your clients with local experts for insider tips, dining recommendations, and help navigating the resort. Live agents are available daily from 8 AM to 7 PM PST. Start chatting here.

Know Before You Go - What to Expect this Winter

Packed with helpful tips and practical information, this blog helps visitors from across Canada and around the world make the most of their Whistler experience. To view the blog, click here.


Contacts

Michelle Dehne
Senior Manager, Market Development
+1.604.938.2725 | mdehne@tourismwhistler.com


Corinna Hoverd
Manager, Market Development
+1.604.938.2755 | choverd@tourismwhistler.com


Jess Pedrosa
Coordinator, Market Development
+1.604.938.2751 | jpedrosa@tourismwhistler.com


Unsubscribe | Update Your Preferences

Tourism Whistler Facebook Tourism Whistler Twitter Tourism Whistler Instagram Toursim Whistler YouTube

Tourism Whistler — 4010 Whistler Way,
Whistler, British Columbia, Canada V8E 1J2