Whistler Olympic Plaza
Whistler Olympic Plaza reflects both the community’s needs and its character. At first glance, it looks like a park, with a spectacular playground, lots of seating for parents and a Great Lawn that’s perfect for playing tag. Look around and the view becomes that a state-of-the-art outdoor performance facility with a dramatic mountain backdrop, right in the heart of dynamic Whistler Village.
The redeveloped site of the Whistler medals ceremonies for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games commemorates our community’s involvement with the globe’s largest sporting and cultural event. Reminders of those amazing 27 days in 2010 are an important part of the Plaza’s design, reflecting the three pillars of the Olympic and Paralympic Games: sport, environment and culture.
The same Olympic rings that graced the entrance to Medals Plaza remain and have already become a favourite spot for photos. However, the Paralympic Agito, with its comfortable curves, might just give the rings a little competition when it comes to being a preferred place for visitor photo opportunities.
Just beyond the rings, eight aluminum panels commemorate every athlete who participated in the 2010 Winter Games in Whistler. A special permanent memorial for fallen Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili is also a reminder of the commitment, spirit, and passion displayed by amateur athletes. The original Olympic cauldron, lit to signify the opening of the XXI Winter Games, has found also found permanent home here.
The Four Host First Nations’ participation in the 2010 Winter Games was essential to its success. The Olympic Lightning Figure was created to honour the Olympic legacy, the families of the area, and the legend of lightning snakes which is depicted in the pole carving design. The lightning snakes brought skills and tools to the Squamish and Lil'wat people to allow them to flourish here in their traditional territory.
Hosting the Winter Games was a community dream that began practically the minute first lift made its way up London Mountain (now Whistler Mountain) a few decades ago — Whistler Olympic Plaza celebrates the realization of this dream and the spirit that made it possible. Now it’s the place for new dreams.
Learn about RMOW festivals, events & animation:
- Backgrounder on Whistler Olympic Plaza
- Backgrounder on Festivals, Events & Animation
- RMOW Cultural Tourism Development Strategy
- Frequently Asked Questions
