The Whistler Children’s Festival returns for its 42nd year, bringing three days of creativity, laughter, and family fun to Whistler from May 16–18, 2025. This beloved event is a must for families looking to spark their kids’ imaginations, connect through play, and create lasting memories in one of British Columbia’s most breathtaking destinations.
A Magical Festival Experience
For three days, Whistler Village transforms into a vibrant playground, where kids can dive into hands-on arts and crafts, dance to live music, be mesmerized by storytellers and circus acts, and explore science experiments. From face painting and puppet shows to interactive workshops that encourage creativity, every moment is designed to bring joy and wonder.
Parents can relax and soak up the lively atmosphere, knowing their children are engaged in safe, stimulating, and educational activities. This festival is packed with opportunities for everyone to learn, play, and bond.
Show-Stopping Headliners & Workshop Highlights
ALL NEW for 2025: Florence Petersen Park debuts as a tented festival zone packed with creativity, complementing existing venues like the Maury Young Arts Centre, Audain Art Museum, Whistler Museum, Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (SLCC), and Whistler Public Library.
This year’s lineup features captivating performances and engaging workshops such as:
The Myrtle Sisters – Same Same Different (musical comedy trio)
The Rising Circus – CANDYLAND! (aerial antics and sugary mayhem)
Norman Foote (award-winning musical storytelling)
Science World – Science Surprises (high-energy science demonstrations)
Puppet making with Kellie Haines
Marimba music with Robin Layne
Juggling with Mike Battie
Meteorology with Science World’s Cloud Spotters
Keep an eye out for the roving performers, drummers, karaoke, Bollywood dancers, and so many more FREE festival activities happening throughout the weekend.
Diverse Programming includes theatre shows, live music, circus acts, science demos, hands-on workshops, and roving performers—with content curated for toddlers through tweens.
Get your tickets early because most of these popular workshops and performances sell out quickly! And don’t forget the Helping Hands Ticket Program – simply add in at checkout to send a family to a performance they could not otherwise attend. Helping Hands tickets will be distributed by community service organizations in the Sea to Sky region.
The Perfect Weekend Getaway
Whistler is just an easy scenic 90-minute drive from Vancouver, making it an easy and stress-free family getaway. The drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway is an adventure in itself, with its stunning mountain views, waterfalls, and fun stops along the way.
Whistler offers a refreshing change of pace from city life and plenty of family-friendly experiences beyond the festival.
Extend the Fun with a Whistler Getaway
Spring in Whistler is an ideal time for a family-friendly escape, with comfortable temperatures, a quieter setting with more room to roam, and plenty of exciting activities for everyone. After enjoying the festival, take time to explore kid-friendly hiking and biking trails surrounded by nature, indulge in family-friendly dining with delicious options for even the pickiest eaters, and enjoy all the other adventures the area has to offer.
With so much to see and do, extending your stay transforms the Whistler Children’s Festival into an unforgettable time for the whole family.
Plan Your Trip Today!
The Whistler Children’s Festival is an experience your family won’t want to miss! Click here to learn more, secure accommodations, and start planning your magical weekend. Book a 3+ night stay from $220 CAD per night and receive a free Activity Voucher—the perfect excuse to turn your festival weekend into a full-on Whistler adventure.
All photos credit to Arts Whistler/Whistler Children’s Festival
