Caribbean Winterfest at Blue Mountain Village
There's something wonderfully unexpected about hearing steel pan drums echo through a snow-covered mountain village. On Saturday, December 6, we're heading to Blue Mountain Village for Caribbean Winterfest, where tropical rhythms meet Canadian winter in the most delightful way possible.
For just $50 per person, you get round-trip coach transportation from Toronto and access to eight hours of festivities (noon to 8pm). The programming is impressive: steel pan performances, Tassa drumming, Dance Caribe company in full costume, DJs spinning calypso and soca, plus workshops where you can create carnival masks. Throughout the day, you might catch Santa on a horse-drawn carriage while island music fills the air, or find yourself in the Snowdome Cocktail Garden with craft drinks and live performances.
Beyond Winterfest, the entire Village is yours to explore. Browse boutique shops carrying Canadian-made goods and brand name stores. Try the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster, test your aim at axe throwing or relax at the Iwa Spa. Warm up in cozy cafes with proper hot chocolate, or settle into one of the excellent restaurants serving everything from elevated Ontario cuisine to satisfying comfort food.
Blue Mountain Village sits at the base of Ontario's Blue Mountain, designed as a European-style pedestrian village with twinkling lights, stone facades, and genuine charm. In December, it's particularly magical and Caribbean Winterfest adds an energetic, joyful dimension that transforms the typical winter experience into something memorably different.
The practical advantages matter too: no winter highway driving, no parking headaches, and after a full day of steel pan music and mountain air, someone else handles the two-hour return to Toronto. Just show up ready to enjoy yourself.
This is the kind of day that reminds you why quick escapes from the city are worth taking. You'll return with steel pan melodies stuck in your head, probably some good stories, and the satisfied feeling of having actually done something rather than just thought about it.
Pickup Location
34 Asquith Ave, Toronto 9:00 AM; 90 Great Lakes Dr, Brampton 10:00 AM
Pick up at 34 Asquith Ave, just north of the Yonge and Bloor Subway stop. We recommend getting there 15 minutes early to make sure you have enough time for the bus. Pick up near Starbucks: 90 Great Lakes Dr, Brampton, ON L6R 2K7
Departure
9:00 AM
estimated return
11:00 PM
Blue Mountain Village
Blue Mountain Village offers alpine charm with boutique shops, cozy restaurants, and direct access to Ontario's premier ski hills and winter activities.
Estimated arrival
12:00 Noon
Departure
8:00 PM
Coach bus
Travel in comfort with a full-sized coach bus. Reclining seats, wifi, heat, and plenty of storage make longer rides smooth and relaxing.
Two Pick-Up Locations
#1: 34 Asquith Ave, Toronto at 9:00 AM
#2: 90 Great Lakes Dr, Brampton at 10:00 AM
We recommend getting there 15 minutes early to make sure you have enough time for the bus.
What's included in my $50 ticket?
Round-trip coach transportation from Toronto to Blue Mountain Village. Caribbean Winterfest programming and Village access are free once you arrive. Additional activities like gondola rides, axe throwing, dining, and shopping are pay-as-you-go, so bring extra funds for whatever interests you.
Is this trip suitable for all ages?
Yes. Caribbean Winterfest is family-friendly, and Blue Mountain Village caters to all ages with activities ranging from gentle to active. Whether you're bringing kids, planning a couples' outing, organizing friends, or traveling solo, the day accommodates different interests and energy levels.
What should I wear and bring?
Dress for an Ontario December with outdoor activities: warm layers, insulated jacket, waterproof winter boots, hat, gloves, scarf. You'll move between outdoor performances and indoor Village spaces. Bring a small backpack with water, phone/camera, portable charger, and cash/cards for purchases.
Can I explore beyond the Winterfest programming?
Absolutely. The entire Village remains open with shopping, dining, gondola rides, attractions, and more. You're free to create your own itinerary mixing performances with other activities. Many people find the best approach is following their interests organically.
