Feature Image: Courtesy of WSSF, Oisin McHugh
Spring skiing is one of our favorite seasons over here at FREESKIER. The days are longer, the sun is out more often, the snow softens to that buttery corn consistency, and the après parties hit just right. While you can find an après scene at just about every ski resort, no matter the time of year, spring in Whistler is arguably unmatched—especially during the World Ski and Snowboard Festival (WSSF).
An annual celebration of snow sports, music, art and culture, WSSF has become known as the ultimate spring ski party in all of North America since its inception in 1996. Over the course of a week, April 7-13 this year, skiers and riders gather for ski competitions, film and photo competitions, a plethora of concerts and endless good vibes. Trust us, you’re going to want more than just a weekend to take in the full experience.
Whether you’ve got the gumption for the Saudan Couloir Race Extreme, presented by Helly Hansen, or the style for the Slush Cup, presented by Corona, both competitions are a guaranteed good time. If you’re more interested in listening to professionals in the industry rather than competing alongside them, WSSF’s Coffee + Creatives, presented by Helly Hansen, might just be for you. Featuring professional sport photographers, filmers and creators, this speaking series is free to attend the mornings of April 7, 8 and 9.
New this year, WSSF introduces The Grind Street Style Rail Jam kicking off on Saturday, April 12. You won’t want to miss witnessing this premier ski and snowboard event features male and female athletes hailing from across the globe to compete.
Returning this year as part of WSSF are the three film and photo competitions; 72 Hour Filmmaker Showdown, Pro Photographer Showdown and Intersection—all of which take place at the Whistler Conference Centre Ballroom. A competition for up-and-coming filmmakers and athletes, the 72 Hour Filmmaker Showdown gives contestants 72 hours to make a film three to five minutes in length and must be filmed within 100km of Whistler. Finalists premiere their films on the evening of April 7 for their chance to win the $5,000 grand prize.
On the evening of April 8, gather with professional photographers for the Pro Photographer Showdown, presented by Arc’teryx. Heavy-hitting photographers from across the world, including Zoya Lynch and Paris Gore, present their favorite work to a panel of judges for the chance to win a full spread in the September 2025 issue of Forecast Ski and the coveted bragging rights. If action sport films are more your jam, Intersection, also presented by Arc’teryx, goes down the evening of April 9. The films from five invited crews and one wildcard selection premiere in front of a panel of industry experts for live judging. The winners of Intersection walk away with $10,000.
The Outdoor Music Series, presented by Rockstar, kicks off on April 10th to keep the high vibrations rolling into the second half of the week and doesn’t stop until the mic drops on Sunday night. Be sure not to sleep on WSSF’s After Dark Series featuring back-to-back parties and music across Whistler’s bars and clubs. From high-octane DJs to iconic jam bands, keep an eye out for the official lineup dropping soon.
Born out of the love for all that is mountain culture, Whistler’s World Ski and Snowboard Festival is a bucket-list event set inside one of the most iconic ski towns in the world. Warm and sunny weather, soft snow and $75 après vouchers for every three nights of accommodations make WSSF an easy choice for spring break. Schedule that PTO and we’ll see you in Whistler this April.
