What's New In Whistler
Spring in Whistler
March and April in Whistler bring some of the best skiing and riding conditions, with a mix of fresh snowfall and longer, sunnier days, from peak to patio. Turn your skis towards spring in Whistler for snow, sun, and our legendary après, and be a part of the spring energy and mountain culture of Whistler's World Ski & Snowboard Festival from April 8 – 14.
New Wedge Mountain Lodge & Spa
New luxurious, fully serviced private retreat Wedge Mountain Lodge & Spa recently opened last fall in Whistler. The 12,000-square-foot lodge was thoughtfully crafted to fully accommodate a diverse range of groups from corporate retreats and weddings to intergenerational family getaways and intimate gatherings. Wedge Mountain Lodge boasts 10 meticulously appointed bedrooms to accommodate 20 guests and up to 50 for a reception, also offers a private spa facility with a sauna, steam room, gym, massage rooms, hot tubs, refreshing pools and more. The Lodge also offers a conference room, a state-of-the-art movie theatre, an impeccably curated wine cellar, poker and billiards room, a bar, and a dedicated children’s area.
Fitzsimmons Express Chairlift Upgrade
Whistler Mountain’s Fitzsimmons Express upgrades were completed for the winter 2023/24 season. The existing four-person chairlift has been replaced with an eight-person high speed chair, increasing uphill capacity by 73 per cent in winter. This upgrade will also provide major benefits for Whistler Mountain in Summer 2024, reducing lift line wait times and increasing capacity for the Whistler Mountain Bike Park.
Arts and Culture
The Gondola Gallery Celebrates Diversity in Ski and Snowboard Culture
This spring, two Gondola Gallery art pieces were unveiled on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. Vail commissioned local visual artists, Levi Nelson of Lil’wat First Nation and Chief Janice George and Buddy Joseph of Squamish First Nation, to create original artwork that wraps gondola cabins. Levi Nelson's Red depicts a sacred colour that represents the lifeblood of Indigenous people and their connection to the Earth, along with shapes that are inspired by Nelson’s ancestors. Chief Janice George and Buddy Joseph's Wings of Thunder depicts the traditional technique of weaving.
Otherwise Disregarded | April 21-September 9, 2024
Otherwise Disregarded at the Audain Art Museum brings together the work of four Vancouver-based artists to showcase the transformative power of art during a time of profound change. Featuring the works of Adad Hannah, Jake Kimble, Michelle Sound, and Jin-me Yoon, this exhibition challenges conventional thinking, fosters creative expression, and encourages deep reflection on the current state of the world. The exhibition features both photography and video-based works that delve into complex social, political, and environmental issues that demand viewers’ attention.
Gathie Falk: Revelations | November 25, 2023-May 6, 2024
The Audain Art Museum's current special exhibition, Gathie Falk: Revelations, opened on November 25. This exhibition explores the life’s work of renowned Canadian artist Gathie Falk, who has dedicated over 70 of her 95 years to her artistry. Celebrated as one of Canada’s most accomplished artists, Gathie Falk has received numerous awards, including the Order of Canada. The new exhibition pays tribute to Falk’s contributions to contemporary art, focusing on her unique perspective that combines nature, human existence and everyday objects.
Culinary
Provisions Cafe Now Open
Whistler’s newest café is now open in the heart of the Village, located in a beautiful space tucked between fellow Toptable Group restaurants, Araxi and Bar Oso. Provisions is an all-day neighbourhood café that offers a variety of take away items and dine in service, featuring a full espresso bar, freshly baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, make-to-order sandwiches and salads, slow-roasted rotisserie chicken and a selection of seasonal sides.
Skewk’ / Yecwláo7 / Ravens Nest Restaurant
Whistler Blackcomb, in partnership with the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre’s Thunderbird Café, is now offering Squamish and Lil’wat inspired cuisine on-mountain at Whistler Blackcomb’s Skewk’ / Yecwláo7 / Ravens Nest Restaurant. Visit the restaurant on Whistler Mountain via the top of the Creekside Gondola or skiing down to the base of Red Chair. The new menu includes Venison Chili, Salmon Chowder (both with baked Bannock), Candied Salmon Caesar Salad with Baked Bannock Croutons, Elk and Venison Sandwiches, and other delicious specials. Other authentic Indigenous partners being showcased include Spirit Bear Coffee Company, Nk'Mip Cellars, Ravens Brewing Company, Boreal Heartland, and Authentic Indigenous Seafood.
Alpha Cafe Now Open
The team behind the renowned Alta Bistro restaurant have recently opened offshoot Alpha Cafe next door. The cafe is open daily from 7 AM to 3 PM, serving espresso coffee, freshly baked treats as well as lunch options and salads. Alpha Cafe shares a kitchen space with its parent restaurant, along with its penchant for inventive, seasonal cuisine made from local ingredients.
Event Highlights
Whistler Children's Festival | May 17–19, 2024
The Whistler Children's Festival is back for its 41st year! Whistler’s longest running festival engages children and families in arts and culture, urging them to explore creativity and let their imaginations run wild. Enjoy roving circus performers, magic shows, interactive experiences, and internationally acclaimed children's performers.