The Best Winter Events and Festivals at North America Ski Resorts

As the interest in skiing and snowboarding has grown, so has the interest in unique après happenings and events both on and off the slopes. Ski resorts across North America have answered the call with fun events, from music festivals to winter celebrations, unique skiing experiences, food and drink festivals, and much more. As you plan your winter ski trips, look no further than our list for some of the best winter festivals and events at ski resorts across North America.

As you return from your ski trip, rate and review the ski areas you’ve visited here to help other skiers and riders as they plan their trips. 

New England

Subaru WinterFest, Killington, Vermont (and other ski resorts)

Every year Subaru puts on a music festival that tours some of America’s top ski resorts, and it’s slated to return in 2026. It provides an opportunity for Subaru to promote its latest and greatest products alongside great music and plenty of fun. In the past, it’s stopped at Killington Resort,  Eldora Mountain Resort, Copper Mountain, Sierra-at-Tahoe, Snowbird, and Mt. Bachelor. Subaru also provides complimentary coffee and hot chocolate stands, s’mores stations, and demo skis from Nordica at each stop on the tour. Headlining acts include The National Parks, Shadowgrass, Ashes to Amber, and Grace Potter. 

Stay tuned for more details.

Check out Lodging options at Killington | Copper Mountain | Snowbird | Mt. Bachelor

XC Ski and Chocolate Festival, Intervale, New Hampshire

Many cross-country ski enthusiasts in New England know the XC Ski and Chocolate Festival well—it’s been gaining popularity ever since it began over 30 years ago, earning the nickname “the sweetest day on the trails,” since it combines two things so many of us love: skiing and chocolate. It’s put on in February by the Mount Washington Valley Ski Touring and Snowshoe Foundation and features 9 different chocolate stations spread out over 15 km of trails to enjoy. Stations include shops, inns, restaurants, and more. Guests can cross-country ski or snowshoe from station to station, taking in the gorgeous white mountain scenery while picking up treats along the way. A shuttle bus also runs between sweet stops for those who don’t want to ski.

2026’s event will be hosted on February 22. Tickets are $45 and go on sale December 1.

Waterbury Winterfest, Waterbury, Vermont

For many skiers and snowboarders, Waterbury might seem like just a scenic stop en route to Vermont’s iconic ski destinations like Stowe. But from January 28 to February 1, 2026, this charming town transforms into the heart of winter celebration during the 16th annual Waterbury Winterfest—one of Vermont’s most beloved cold-weather festivals.

Waterbury Winterfest 2026 offers a vibrant mix of outdoor and evening activities. Visitors can enjoy unique winter sports like snow soccer and broomball, alongside fat tire bike demos and guided ski and snowshoe tours. As the sun sets, the festivities continue with live music, trivia competitions, and tastings featuring local wines and craft beers.

Although Waterbury isn’t a traditional ski town, its location is ideal—just a short drive from premier resorts such as Stowe and Bolton Valley. Whether you’re carving slopes or soaking up the festive spirit, Waterbury Winterfest promises a weekend full of unforgettable winter fun.

Check out Lodging options at Stowe | Bolton Valley

West

WinterWonderGrass, Palisades Tahoe, California, and Steamboat, Colorado

This year, WinterWonderGrass will stop at Steamboat this year, bringing a unique combination of bluegrass music, craft beer, and alpine views slopeside from February 28 to March 2, 2026. 

Typically held late in the season, WinterWonderGrass combines the thrill of winter sports with the soulful sounds of bluegrass music. The festival features an outstanding lineup of bluegrass and acoustic roots artists and offers a diverse selection of craft beers from local and regional breweries. Attendees can enjoy the crisp mountain air while dancing to the lively tunes of both established and up-and-coming musicians. Beyond the music, WinterWonderGrass embraces the mountain culture, encouraging festival-goers to hit the slopes during the day and gather in the evening for the warmth of the festival’s communal spirit.

This year’s lineup includes The Devil Makes Three, Leftover Salmon and Elephant Revival. Check out the full roster here.

Check out Lodging options at Steamboat

Jackson Hole Food & Wine Winter Fest, Jackson, Wyoming

Skiing, food, and drinks go hand in hand. After all, après-ski is just about as important as the skiing itself. Jackson brings all of it together for a special 3-day weekend featuring top local and guest chefs, renowned winemakers, and more for the Jackson Hole Food & Wine Winter Fest. Bring your appetite and a sense of adventure to enjoy multi-course dinners, whiskey tastings, cooking demos, tasting experiences, and more unique events. This year’s Jackson Hole Food & Wine Winter Fest is scheduled for February 28-28. Make sure you save the date for the Summer Festival, happening June 25-27.

Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series, Aspen, Colorado

The Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series returns to Aspen Snowmass in February and March, offering free live music that enhances the vibrant après-ski atmosphere in the heart of the Rockies.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this beloved series brings the hype with big-name artists and iconic venues. Past acts including Umphrey’s McGee and Busty and the Bass. The 2026 lineup features shows on February 17 at Snowmass Base Village and March 27–28 at Aspen Mountain, with artists to be announced.

Check out Lodging options at Aspen Snowmass

Telluride Comedy Fest, Telluride, Colorado

You may not think of comedy events when you think of ski towns, but then again, Telluride isn’t your typical ski town. The Telluride Comedy Festival is now in its 26th year, bringing together some of the nation’s funniest comedians for four nights of comedy over Presidents’ Day Weekend. Since 1999, the historic Sheridan Opera House has hosted what is one of the most unique events you’ll find in any ski town. Past performers have included Jason Mantzoukas (pictured below), Nick Kroll, Ed Helms, Rob Riggle, Jack McBrayer, and Natasha Leggero. The weekend includes free late-night after-shows, improv, and many other events.

This year’s festival kicks off on February 12. Get tickets on Sheridan Opera House’s website.

Check out Lodging options at Telluride

Midwest

Mardi Gras Family Festival, Granite Peak, Wisconsin 

Family festivals at Granite Peak Resort in Wisconsin center around major holidays. For Mardi Gras, the ski resort comes alive with tons of events, activities, and hidden surprises on the slopes. The Mardi Gras celebration takes place March 7-9, when guests can ski for free and celebrate Mardi Gras in all its glory. Skiing jesters from the Alpine Learning Center will be scattered across the mountain tossing out strands of beads, while the resort’s social media accounts will be putting out clues for the traditional festival trailside scavenger hunt. 

Check out Lodging options at Granite Peak

Carnival Weekend, Boyne Mountain Resort, Michigan

Formerly known as “Crazy Daze,” Boyne Mountain‘s annual Carnival weekend transforms the resort into a full-on part with live music, costumes, and a slush cup race. Guests can expect themed events, on-slope antics, and après-ski entertainment that spills late into the night. Whether you’re plunging into icy water in costume or dancing slope-side to local bands, this festival guests to let loose, get silly, and enjoy a weekend of fun, friends, and fantastic skiing. This year’s event is slated for March 21-22.

Check out Lodging options at Boyne Mountain

Canada

Griz Days, Fernie

Fernie’s annual Griz Days Festival, celebrating the legend of Griz, is the town’s biggest event, taking place all across town, from Fernie Alpine Resort to Provincial Park to historic downtown Fernie. Happening at the end of February and early March (this year from March 6-8), Griz Days is in its 49th year. This year’s theme has yet to be announced, but last year’s was Vintage Formal — complete with top hats, monocles, pearls, and fur as a nod to Griz’s roots. Events include beer tastings, trivia nights, live music, a Griz parade, a craft fair, lots of activities for kids, and more. On Saturday, ski with Griz at Fernie Alpine Resort.

See the complete schedule of events on Tourism Fernie’s website. This is truly one of the most unique ski town events you’ll find.

Check out Lodging options at Fernie

Whistler World Ski & Snowboard Festival, British Columbia

Skiing and snowboarding have a rich history and culture spanning centuries — the Whistler World Ski and Snowboard Festival aims to celebrate that. At one of the most stunning resorts in the world, locals and tourists alike gather for a week of events revolving around the beloved sport. From April 6-12, enjoy racing competitions, live music, special museum exhibits, film premieres, and more. A full list of events and schedules can be found here.

Header image: ©Subaru WinterFest