Best Resorts for Skiing at Christmas

Skiing or snowboarding is an excellent way to spend your holiday vacation. Just about every ski resort goes out of their way to make the holidays a special experience—glittering Christmas lights line village shops, families ice skate under the stars, seasonal music rings through the streets and fireworks dazzle onlookers. Oh, and did we mention skiing Santas? We compiled a list of some of our favorite resorts for skiing at Christmas.

Aspen Snowmass, Colorado

Join the jetsetters for a white Christmas in Aspen Snowmass and revel in all the holiday celebrations, from twinkling lights on pedestrian malls to gourmet hot chocolate at St. Regis Aspen Resort. Click see holiday ski deals to Aspen.

Vail, Colorado

Vail’s Tyrolian-inspired villages shines brightly making it the perfect setting for last-minute shopping at the resort’s many world-class boutiques and shops or simply taking in the festive scenery. Vail Family Holidaze commences Dec. 16–31 with, tree lighting and the New Year’s Eve Torchlight Ski Down and fireworks. Check out our holiday ski deals to Vail.

St. Moritz, Switzerland

This idyllic Alpine village, especially when decked in its holiday best and blanketed in fresh snow, is Currier & Ives-quality. Catch a daily, classical Sinfonia concert series or enjoy the awe of fireworks lighting up the charming town and snow-covered mountains.

Stowe, Vermont

Ever a quaint, quintessential New England town, Stowe is one of the most charming places to be – and ski – during the holidays. Walk around the historic town a glow and peruse the local artisan market for gifts or catch a holiday concert at the Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center. Families will love the candy cane-making demos and community screenings of It’s a Wonderful Life.

Megeve, France

A snow-globe dream come to life, Megeve offers a picture-perfect holiday setting. Horse-drawn carriages are the town taxis, and families gather around the central ice-skating rink that glows with a Swarovski-gilded Christmas tree and an ice-sculpture nativity scene.

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia

Among the many holiday events hosted at Whistler, one of the most fun is Santa Ski Day. The first 75 guests who dress up as Santa or Mrs. Claus ski free on December 16, and the mountain teems with holiday cheer. Also don’t miss Whistlers signature Fire & Ice shows, pro skiers and snowboarders combine gravity-defying tricks with fire stunts—trust us, it’s pretty darn cool (and simultaneously hot).

Squaw Valley, California

While a visit to this Lake Tahoe resort is always a treat, Squaw really shines during the holidays. Santa is on the slopes, carolers roam The Village, and Chief Mountain Host/pro skier Jonny Moseley skies with guests. View holiday ski deals to Squaw Valley.

Banff Lake Louise, Alberta

With very reliable early-season snow pack, Banff and Lake Louise is a fantastic holiday destination. Stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and take a twirl around the beautiful ice-skating rink.