FAQs

Frequently asked questions about the Whistler Olympic Plaza

Is Whistler Olympic Plaza the same thing as Whistler Medals Plaza?

The Plaza incorporates the Olympic venue’s footprint and remains a place for celebration, but that’s where the similarity ends. The venue was enhanced post-2010 Winter Games. Grass replaced the blacktop, a permanent performance pavilion was built, plug-and-play performance areas installed, casual seating was built around the perimeter, iconographic Olympic and Paralympic symbols were installed, and a fully accessible children’s playground was built.

How much did Whistler Olympic Plaza construction cost and who paid for it?

Upgrades to Whistler Olympic Plaza cost $13.6 million. Capital funding for the construction was provided by the following partners:

Canadian Heritage Cultural Spaces Canada   $ 5.0 million

Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games  

 $ 4.2  million
Resort Municipality Initiative (in partnership with the Province of B.C.)         $ 4.4  million
Legacies Now Society                            $ 0.2  million
Ronald McDonald House    $ 0.1  million
Rick Hansen Foundation                         $ 0.05 million
B.C. Hydro Community Tree $ 0.02 million

Wasn’t the land where The Plaza now stands a protected forest before the Olympics?

No. From the early ’80s, Whistler visionaries designated this land as community space. The RMOW Official Community Plan always called for Lots 1/9 to be developed as a community amenity. By using the space for Medals Plaza during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, the RMOW was able to create a great community space for a fraction of the actual cost.

Can we sit on the lawn?

Of course, that’s why it’s there!

Can I smoke at Whistler Olympic Plaza?

No. All public spaces in Whistler are smoke-free.

Can I drink at Whistler Olympic Plaza?

If the event is licensed, you’re at least 19 years of age and have valid photo I.D., you can drink alcoholic beverages that are sold at the concessions at Whistler Olympic Plaza. Otherwise, no.

Click here for more information from B.C.'s Liquor Control and Licensing Branch.

Can I bring my dog to Whistler Olympic Plaza?

Dogs, other than service animals, are not permitted to attend events at Whistler Olympic Plaza. However, dogs are allowed at the venue during other times as long as they are on leash.

What about skateboarding or cycling in Whistler Olympic Plaza?

Whistler Olympic Plaza, like all of Whistler Village, is a no cycling/no skateboarding zone. People who ignore this bylaw and are found wheeling around are subject to fines up to $2,000.

What should I bring to an evening concert at Whistler Olympic Plaza?

Being in the mountains, a warm summer day in Whistler can turn chilly the minute the sun disappears. Layer up and don’t be afraid of a little fleece. In fact, fleece throws make an excellent addition to any Whistler evening.

My company/group wants to put on an event at Whistler Olympic Plaza, can you help us?

Yes! The RMOW has been helping with events for decades. Our experienced staff is dedicated to insuring the smooth operations of third-party events, large and small.

To learn more about running an event at Whistler Olympic Plaza click here.  

Whistler Olympic Plaza, let the future begin.