“Party in April, sleep in May” is a slogan that rings true for many of us this time of year. If you are unfamiliar with the slogan, it’s time to head to Whistler for the World Ski and Snowboard Festival, April 10 to 19, and find out for yourself what it’s all about.
Since 1996, the World Ski and Snowboard Festival has become the can’t-miss event in Whistler. Not just about skiing and boarding, WSSF is a celebration of mountain culture, live music, art, fashion, film, après and more.
The event will be taking over Whistler in its entirety and serving the needs of us Van City weekend warriors dying for an excuse to come up and party.
This year, the timing couldn’t be better, thanks to a fresh dump of snow and a recently-announced extended ski season.
The first thing you need to do is download the new WSSF app. This is the easiest and newest new way to lock down your schedule and jam-pack your party plans at the swipe of your phone and it’s about time!
Cool features on this new app include a photo booth and a live digital lighter so you can fit in with the cool kids at the free outdoor concert series.
Car camping and couch surfing may be the most affordable way to make your stay at WSSF as long as possible. If however, your wallet is loaded thanks to the lack of snow days this year, might I suggest hotels like The Westin Whistler, who’s suites can accommodate a large clan and come with kitchens so you can save on eating out. The best part of pricey lodging is that you are a stone’s throw away from the Skier’s Plaza and all the action. Do book quickly as beds fill up fast.
Make sure to tell someone where you’re going and how to reach you when you leave town and do use the buddy system for personal safety during the festival. Things are known to get a little crazy during WSSF.
This year’s lineup of free shows includes performances by Swollen Members, MSTRKRFT, and YelaWolf to name a few. If you are not keen on carpooling, there’s always the bus. Bring a backpack to stockpile your freebies and toiletries on the swag strip in the village. Usually you can grab enough free samples of deodorant, Franks Hot Sauce and yogurt to get you through the summer months.
Opening weekend highlights like Gibbons Big Air and the new Gibbons Plazapalooza are not to be missed, nor is In the Beginning at the Bear Foot Bistro, the must-attend party of the week.
Stay the whole stretch if you can. At the very least, head back to Whistler for the finale weekend showdown, which includes the Monster Energy Shred Show, Whistler Dogfest and Intersection.
See you there!
