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December 19, 2025
Family on chairlift at okanagan ski hill big white silverstar

Ride Into Winter: What’s Happening at Big White & SilverStar + Fresh Air’s Holiday Deals

The ski season in the Okanagan is officially alive, local mountains are buzzing, and Fresh Air is here to help people gear up for their most exciting season yet. The mountains are busy, the lodging is booking up fast, and the snow reports are getting refreshed like it’s a sport. Are you and your gear ready?

The knowledgeable staff at Fresh Air has pulled together a handy list of standout December and January events at Big White and SilverStar. Learn about our big Holiday Sale and get the most bang for your buck, and review our practical gear checklist to help you stay safe and comfortable on hill days.

Quick note: Resort schedules are subject to change due to weather and operational factors. Please use the lists below as your initial reference and confirm details on the resort calendars shortly before or during your trip. 


Fresh Air Kelowna’s Big Holiday Sale

Fresh Air Kelowna will be hosting an online and in-store sale from December 24th to 31st! Our stores will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day, but you can still shop online.

  • All winter gear and accessories will be 20% off, except for 2026 downhill ski boots.

  • All bike accessories will be 20% off, except for Garmin products.

  • All bikes will be on sale, except for 2026 models.


Join the Big White or Silverstar Santa Ski events this holiday season.


Big White Events

December highlights

Big White is an infamous ski hill for many reasons: great powder, stunning views, entertainment, and activities for everyone. If you’re heading up in December, these are a few “worth planning around” moments that work well for families, groups, and holiday visitors:

Hot Tip for Big White ski days: Big White days can have weather that fluctuates between extremes, especially when clouds roll in or the wind picks up. Plan your clothing like a volume knob: easy to turn up or down with layers, rather than one mega-jacket that only has “on/off.”

January highlights

January tends to be prime “real winter” energy: colder temps, consistent snow, and a nice rhythm on the hill after the holiday surge.

A couple of January highlights on the calendar:

Learn more and read about even more events and activities on Big White’s events calendar.


Pop up to Silverstar for a ski trip and enjoy winter wonderland vibes.


SilverStar Events

December highlights

SilverStar’s vibe is very much like a “mountain village holiday movie,” in the best way. Their December holiday events are easy to build a trip around:

A practical note: you can sign up for SilverStar’s newsletter to stay informed of upcoming events.

January Highlights

January is a great month to mix regular laps with one “special event” day.

A solid pick if you want something lively and spectator-friendly:

To learn more about these events and see even more, check out the SilverStar Events Calendar.


Fresh Air Gear Basics for Smooth Mountain Days

Layering basics for Okanagan winter: Base layers wick sweat, mid layers retain warmth, and outer layers block wind and moisture. Pack a dry base for the ride home and sunglasses.

Essential safety gear: Lift-served days still need the basics. For backcountry skiing and Nordic, every person should carry a transceiver, probe, and shovel… and know how to use them.

Tune-ups and maintenance: Early-season services help avoid sticky bases and dull edges. Fresh Air’s full-service shop handles tunes and repairs for skis, snowboards, and Nordic.


Quick Ski Resort Packing List

  • Lift ticket or pass, ID, wallet

  • Helmet, jacket, boots, and snowpants

  • Ski goggles, spare lens if you have one

  • Neck tube or balaclava

  • Gloves or mitts, hand warmers

  • Sunglasses

  • Bathing suit if your lodging has a hot tub

  • Hill-ready snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Dry “après ski” clothing

Fun Fact: Après ski is French for “after ski,” and is the social tradition of relaxing, drinking, and eating with friends and/or family after a day on the hill.


Insider Okanagan Ski Resort Planning Tips

Timing: Weekdays usually beat weekends for parking and lift lines. On peak weekend days, arrive early and treat the first hour as bonus laps.

Transport: If you are flying in, consider comparing local shuttle options, such as “Cheers! Okanagan Tours & Transportation” or “Kelowna Concierge” for a stress-free transfer.

Weather watch: Check conditions the night before, then again in the morning. Pack one warmer option than you think you need, and be prepared for bright sun bat high elevations.


How Fresh Air Can Get Your Family Ready for the Hill

Pop in to Fresh Air Kelowna, and our staff can help you with everything you need to make the most of your vacation up at the hill. We hope this is your best season to date!


Fresh Air Kelowna helps skiers and riders get dialled gear and better days on snow. Since 1981, our fit-first approach has served the Okanagan. Ready to ride smarter this season? Visit us today.


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