Date: Friday. November 27 to Sunday, November 29, 2026
Time:
Ferris wheel: Friday and Saturday, 12 to 8 p.m., Sunday 12 to 5 p.m.
Entertainment and programming: Friday and Saturday, 5 to 8 p.m.
Location: Whistler Olympic Plaza
Whistler Winterlight celebrates the start of ski season with a weekend of illumination in the heart of Whistler Village. A glowing Ferris wheel standing more than 50 feet tall, laser shows, immersive light installations, LED tunnels, outdoor skating, delicious treats, live DJs, illuminated characters, a fire-breathing dragon, and a few unexpected surprises take over Whistler Olympic Plaza. Grab your friends, bring a date, round up the family, or head down after a day on the mountain and get your glow on! Whistler after dark is about to get a whole lot brighter.
Let’s light up the season together! Whether you’re a local or visiting Whistler for the first time, Whistler Winterlight promises an unforgettable start to an even more memorable winter season.
Take a spin on the Ferris wheel
Standing more than 50 feet tall, Winterlight’s illuminated Ferris wheel returns to Whistler Olympic Plaza for three days, offering spectacular views of the Village and surrounding mountains.
Ferris wheel hours
- Friday, November 27: 12 to 8 p.m.
- Saturday, November 28: 12 to 8 p.m.
- Sunday, November 29: 12 to 5 p.m.
Tickets: $5 per person, per ride, with proceeds supporting a local charitable recipient to be announced.
Height requirements
- 48 inches or taller to ride alone
- 42 to 47 inches tall when accompanied by an adult
- Children under 42 inches tall are not permitted to ride
Discover more Winterlight experiences
Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28 | 5 to 8 p.m.
Envision lasers, neon, glowing archways and larger-than-life light installations. Winterlight transforms Whistler Olympic Plaza with interactive experiences, colourful displays and laser shows set to music. Explore the installations, catch up with friends and enjoy an evening in the Village as the ski season gets underway.
Glowing Archways
Wander beneath illuminated archways that create a colourful tunnel of light through Whistler Olympic Plaza.
Converge Laser Installation
Experience a captivating, immersive installation combining laser displays, light and sound.
Live DJ Sets
Dance the evening away as beloved local DJ Foxy Moron and DJ PRAiZ bring energizing music to Whistler Olympic Plaza throughout both evenings.
Berzerkatroid Dragon
Meet Berzerkatroid, an interactive, fire-breathing dragon making a first-time appearance at Whistler Winterlight.
Firefly Forest
Create a miniature firefly and move it through a display of illuminated fireflies among the trees.
Shadow Puppets
Experiment with light and colour by creating shadow puppets or using your own silhouette.
Illuminated Characters
Encounter illuminated characters roaming throughout Whistler Olympic Plaza.
Pop-Up Market
Discover a curated selection of local makers and vendors at Whistler Olympic Plaza.
Food Vendors
Enjoy warm drinks and snacks from food vendors throughout the Plaza.
Illuminated Photo Opportunities
Snap pics with illuminated photo opps, because no Winterlight experience is complete without capturing the perfect winter memories.
Outdoor Skating at Whistler Olympic Plaza
Bring your own skates or rent a pair onsite and enjoy skating beneath the magic of the Olympic Plaza lights.
Daily Skating Sessions
- 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- 2:30 to 5 p.m.
- 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Admission
- Child: $3.75
- Youth: $5.25
- Adult: $6.25
- Skate rentals: $7.25
Opening hours and more information here.
Whistler Winterlight event FAQ
Q: Where is the event held?
A: Winterlight takes place at Whistler Olympic Plaza, in the heart of Whistler’s pedestrian Village.
Q: When is Whistler Winterlight?
A: Whistler Winterlight takes place November 27 to 29, 2026. Winterlight entertainment and programming takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Ferris wheel rides are available all three days.
Q: How much does the Ferris wheel cost, and when is it open?
A: Ferris wheel rides cost $5 per person, per ride, with proceeds supporting a local charitable recipient to be announced.
- Friday, November 27: 12 to 8 p.m.
- Saturday, November 28: 12 to 8 p.m.
- Sunday, November 29: 12 to 5 p.m.
Q: Are there height restrictions for the Ferris wheel?
A: Yes. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to ride alone. Children between 42 and 47 inches tall must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 42 inches tall cannot ride.
Q: Is there an admission fee for the event?
A: No! Winterlight’s immersive experiences and entertainment are free to enjoy. Ferris wheel rides cost $5 per person, and regular admission and rental fees apply for outdoor skating.
Q: What activities can we expect?
A: Expect immersive light installations, glowing archways, laser displays, live DJs, illuminated characters, interactive activities, a fire-breathing dragon and a giant illuminated Ferris wheel. Visitors can also explore the Firefly Forest, create shadow puppets and more.
Q: How do we get to the event?
A: Whistler Winterlight is easily accessible on foot or by public transit. Parking is available in nearby Day Lots, but visitors are encouraged to use public transit or carpool where possible.
Q: Can we bring our pets to the event?
A: Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and under control.
Q: Are there washrooms available at the event?
A: Yes, accessible washrooms are available at Whistler Olympic Plaza.
Q: What should we wear?
A: Dress warmly! Winterlight takes place outdoors, so layers, winter footwear and clothing suited to the weather are recommended.
Q: Will there be food available at the event?
A: Food vendors are planned for Whistler Olympic Plaza, with snacks and warm drinks available for purchase. Visitors can also explore Whistler Village’s many restaurants and cafés before or after the event.
Q: Is Winterlight suitable for all ages?
A: Absolutely! Winterlight is designed for everyone, whether you’re planning a date night, meeting friends after a day on the mountain or bringing the family along. Make sure to check the Ferris wheel height restrictions.
Q: What happens if it rains or snows?
A: Winterlight is an outdoor event and is planned to take place rain or snow. In the event of severe weather, programming may be adjusted. Check the event website for updates.
Q: Are there any restrictions at the event?
A: Drones, smoking and alcohol are not permitted within the event area.
Sensory information and accessibility
Q: What should visitors expect from a sensory perspective?
A: Winterlight is a free, self-guided outdoor experience featuring illuminated art installations, interactive displays and entertainment. Visitors are welcome to explore at their own pace.
Some installations may feature bright or changing lights, music, sound effects and interactive elements. Crowd levels may vary throughout the evening, particularly around popular installations and entertainment areas.
Q: Are there any sensory considerations visitors should be aware of?
A: Visitors may encounter:
Bright, colourful or changing lights; Music, amplified sound and sound effects; Interactive installations; Moderate pedestrian traffic and gathering crowds around popular attractions.
Visitors with sensory sensitivities are encouraged to plan their experience around their individual comfort levels. As Winterlight is self-guided, guests can move between installations and explore at their own pace.
Q: Is there accessibility information available?
A: We want all guests to have the information they need to plan their experience. Due to the design of the attraction, the Ferris Wheel is not accessible for individuals who aren’t able to transfer from a wheelchair or mobility device into the ride. More information about accessibility in Whistler Olympic Plaza can be found at here.
Q: How can I stay updated on event information?
A: Follow the Resort Municipality of Whistler’s official event social media channels (@whistler.concerts.events) for the latest programming announcements and event updates.