With its lush green landscapes and the friendly atmosphere of its lively villages, the Aravis region has plenty to offer visitors during the summer. As well as the many mountain activities, the local towns and villages host a wide variety of events suitable for all ages. To help you plan your visit, we’ve selected the main events taking place this summer in Le Grand-Bornand, La Clusaz, Manigod, and Thônes.
To help you plan your stay, you’ll find a list at the end of the article of the regular events and activities taking place throughout the season.
Table of content
Click on the section you would like to jump to…
The highlights of summer in the Aravis
These are the events recommended by the OVO Network team…
AravisTrail
21 June
Thônes
The AravisTrail is more than just an endurance race – it’s a friendly event that brings together participants and spectators, residents and visitors, adults and children.
La Clusaz Yoga Festival
2-5 July
La Clusaz
For us, the mountains are all about serenity. This festival is the perfect way to recharge your batteries, surrounded by the magnificent peaks of the Aravis.
Saint Jean de Zik
17 July – 21 August
Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
There’s no shortage of music festivals in the Alps, but this one has a special charm. More relaxed than the others, it is the perfect way to end the week on a high note.
‘Sous l’Aiguille’ village festival
9 August
Manigod
This festival has been happening in Manigod for many years. For us, it is the best way to discover local skills and crafts and get a flavour of mountain life.
‘Au Bonheur des Mômes’ children’s festival
23–27 August
Various locations, Le Grand-Bornand
A highlight of the summer calendar in the Aravis for 30 years, this children’s festival has become a major event in Le Grand-Bornand. Its rich and varied programme is sure to delight all children.
Book your chalet in the Aravis
Calendar of events in the Aravis this summer
JUNE
The Gypaète trail
6 June
Le Grand-Bornand
With a choice of courses ranging from 14km to 76km, set in spectacular scenery, this is a trail running event that grows in popularity every year.
Le Bélier VTT
13 and 14 June
La Clusaz
If you love mountain biking then why not take part in the Bélier VTT event, with various options for both adults and children? Taking place on the famed mountain biking trails around La Clusaz, this is the latest edition in the popular Bélier running and walking events.
Fête de la Saint-Jean
20 June
Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
This annual festival brings together residents and visitors together at the Fil Neige du Crêt for a free, friendly evening, starting at 6pm. Expect entertainment, food and refreshments, as well as the lighting of the bonfire at nightfall, a show and a concert.
AravisTrail
21 June
Thônes
Around 700 runners will come to test their limits on the Aravis mountain trails. Several routes (10km, 20km, 48km, and the Alpi Trail for pairs) will take them to the peaks of Mont Lachat, Sulens, and Mont Charvin. A 5km race for young runners’ race is also on the agenda.
Namass Pamouss festival
26, 27 and 28 June
Manigod
Get together for a weekend of concerts, jam sessions and local produce in the heart of the mountains. The gathering is on the Tête du Cabeau, which can only be reached by foot – it’s 20 minutes from the top of the Col de Merdassier.
Verti Grand-Bo
27 June
Le Grand-Bornand
The Verti Grand-Bo brings together trail enthusiasts for a steep uphill challenge consisting of a 1.8km course with 412m of elevation gain, with individual and pair formats. There will also be music, a refreshment stand and food throughout the day near the La Joyère cable car.
Moonlight walk
27 June
La Clusaz
Enjoy a magical stroll around La Clusaz when, for a few hours, all the lights in the village will be replaced by candlelight and the light of the moon. Concerts and street performances will add to the enchanting atmosphere.
Local Heritage and Mill Days
27-28 June
Le Grand-Bornand
As part of the 2026 European Heritage Days, the Maison du Patrimoine in Le Grand-Bornand is organising guided tours on the theme of ‘Tours and detours’. A treasure hunt will keep children entertained in the village centre.
JULY
La Clusaz Yoga Festival
2–5 July
La Clusaz
Come and discover different types of yoga or expand your practice at this outdoor festival surrounded by the magnificent Aravis mountains. It is the perfect chance to unwind, recharge and reconnect with yourself.
Jeep Festival
4–5 July
Col de la Croix Fry, Manigod
For one weekend, the mountains welcome an impressive collection of vintage Jeeps and motorcycles. After a free Jeep ride experience, you can stroll through a military camp and see old vehicles, accessories, parts and vintage clothing.
Firemen’s Ball
13 July
La Clusaz
Starting at 5:30pm on the eve of the national holiday, this traditional dance includes a firefighters’ parade, a concert and a fireworks display. It’s a chance for residents and visitors to enjoy a lively, traditional outdoor dance atmosphere.
Bastille Day
13 July
Chinaillon
The national holiday will be celebrated in style in the centre of Chinaillon from 4pm. There will be inflatable structures for children, several concerts and of course a high-quality fireworks display. Snacks and drinks will also be available.
Flea market
14 July
Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
The centre of Saint-Jean-de-Sixt will be transformed into a huge flea market between 8am and 6pm. Come and pick up a bargain or a unique souvenir from your stay.
Mountain festival
14 July
Le Grand-Bornand
Celebrate the mountains with this packed programme of activities starting at 2pm. Try climbing workshops, slacklining, enjoy a traditional Savoyard meal and a presentation by mountain guides. The evening finishes with a narrated sound and light show that will illuminate the surrounding peaks.
Saint Jean de Zik
17 July – 21 August
Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
Enjoy outdoor concerts and musical entertainment every Friday on the square by the old school. This festival, featuring several different musical styles, is a great way to end the week on a high note.
Champ des Platines
18 July
La Clusaz
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon dancing to the sounds of a DJ set in a mountain pasture made available for the occasion by a farmer. A refreshment stand and small food stalls will be available. Please note that entry is free, but there is no access for cars.
Trail de l’Aigle
19 July
Manigod
This race will take you through exceptional landscapes, which are among the most beautiful in the Alps. There are three routes to choose from: 11km or 26km Nordic walking routes and a 2km children’s race. All events start from the Col de la Croix Fry. At the end, each participant will be rewarded with a meal and a farm-made Reblochon cheese.
Lac de la Cour festival
21 July
Chinaillon
This event brings together everything there is to love about summer evenings. Starting from Chinaillon, take a short walk to Lac de la Cour where an outdoor dinner will be served, followed by a concert. Walkers on the return journey will be lit by torchlight and accompanied by an accordion player.
Soirée champêtre
22 July
La Clusaz
Meet at 6pm for a typical Savoyard meal, followed by a traditional music concert by the group Lou Socali and an evening of dance. There will also be a folk dance performance and a demonstration of traditional woodworking crafts.
‘Carnets d’Alpage’, a mountain sketching event
25 – 30 July
Le Grand-Bornand
Drawing enthusiasts, experienced artists, and beginners will come together for six days of workshops, exhibitions, and gatherings dedicated to mountain sketching. There will be outdoor drawing sessions and group “sketch crawls” to capture the landscapes of the Aravis mountains.
LCZ Summer session
29 July
La Clusaz
Did you think the pistes were abandoned in summer? The future stars of freestyle skiing will showcase their talent on one of the largest inflatable slopes in Europe. The event also includes a sledging competition and a DJ set.
AUGUST
Village festival
1 and 2 August
La Clusaz
A weekend of fun for children, with activities, games, stalls and shows at the village school. A traditional dance will take place in the evening, along with a concert by the La Clusaz wind orchestra.
Thôn’Arts Recycling festival
1–2 August
Thônes
This festival celebrates the art of recycling through original creations and performances by artists from all over France. Visitors will discover how everyday objects and reclaimed materials can be transformed into surprising and unexpected works of art.
Gourmet walking festival
2 August
Manigod
This gourmet hike will take you through incredible mountain landscapes, stopping along the way to try some traditional Savoyard specialities. It’s an experience that combines a look at the local heritage with the pleasure of walking.
Wellbeing mornings
3 August
Thônes
Enjoy a morning dedicated to well-being and relaxation at these yoga sessions organised by the Thônes Tourist Office. You will be able to work on your flexibility, muscle strengthening and balance in a natural setting with the pure mountain air.
Retro Bike Show
4 August
Thônes
This original show will combine humour, acrobatics, and mechanical performances to tell a touching story, full of contortions and poetry. This dynamic and quirky performance promises plenty of laughter in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Reblochon cheese and crafts festival
9 August
La Clusaz
Learn all about the history and production of Reblochon during this friendly rural festival. Taste some of the best local products, accompanied by traditional dances and a parade.
‘Sous l’Aiguille’ village festival
9 August
Manigod
This mountain festival has been bringing the alpine pastures to life for several years, with craft demonstrations, traditional activities and tastings of local specialities. This event is the best way to discover the skills, traditions, and mountain identity of the Manigod area.
Treasure hunt at the museum
12 August
Thônes
Children are invited to explore the collections of the Heritage Museum of the Thônes area through a series of riddles and challenges suited to their age. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn about local history.
Circus show: ‘Le grenier des mélodies’
12 August
Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
This family-friendly show will showcase acrobatics, balancing acts and humour. Artists and circus performers will present a series of acts in a fast-moving production centred around the theme of memories, enchanting guests of all ages.
‘Le Bouquetin’ cycling ascent
15 August
Le Grand-Bornand
All cyclists over the age of 15 can take part in this timed 12km climb up the Col de la Colombière. You can register up until the morning of the event, so why not take on the challenge?
Auto Retro Prestige
16 August
Manigod
Car enthusiasts will be able to admire a selection of classic and prestigious vehicles in the mountain setting of the Col de la Croix Fry. This event will bring together collectors and visitors as well as iconic cars that have shaped the history of the automobile.
Le Bélier Trail & Rando
21 – 23 August
La Clusaz
One of the oldest races in Haute-Savoie. Le Bélier attracts people of all ages to the Aravis trails every year. The Bélier offers routes of different lengths, both as races and hikes, for adults and children.
‘Au Bonheur des Mômes’ children’s festival
23 – 27 August
Various locations, Le Grand-Bornand
This lively and enchanting festival has been bringing laughter and wonder to children for more than 30 years. The programme includes shows, music, magic and workshops, as well as exhibitions, meetings, and talks focused on childhood. Check the full programme on the official website.
SEPTEMBER
Champ des Platines
5 September
La Clusaz
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon dancing to the sounds of a DJ set in a mountain pasture made available for the occasion by a farmer. A refreshment stand and small food stalls will be available. Please note that entry is free, but there is no access for cars.
Millet Manigod Trail Challenge
12 – 13 September
Col de Merdassier, Manigod
This is probably one of the most picturesque races in the region. Several routes take runners on a journey to discover the panoramic views of Mont Charvin, the Beauregard plateau, and the Manigod valley.
Foire de la Croix
13 September
La Clusaz
For Alpine farmers, the end of summer means the return of the herds to the village after a season spent in the mountain pastures. It is marked with a day of celebrations at Champ-Giguet, featuring a livestock parade, several competitions, as well as games and activities for the whole family.
Saint-Maurice agricultural fair
19 September
Thônes
This fair celebrating Alpine farmers offers the opportunity to taste local produce in a festive atmosphere, with cheese and livestock competitions, as well as traditional folk dances.
Book your chalet in the Aravis
Events and activities throughout the summer
Market days in the Aravis
Browse the stalls at one of the busy markets in the towns. You will find regional produce such as cured meats and cheese, as well as crafts and souvenirs to take home.
Chinaillon: Sunday mornings
La Clusaz: Monday mornings
Manigod: Tuesday mornings
Le Grand-Bornand: Wednesday mornings
Farm visits
You can visit local farms in most of the resorts in the Aravis. It is the perfect way to discover Alpine traditions, meet farm animals, and taste fresh local produce.
Discover how Reblochon is made, Le Grand-Bornand
All summer long, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays
For more information: click here
Ferme de Lorette, La Clusaz
Every Wednesday
For more information: click here
Coopérative du Reblochon Fermier, Thônes
Every Saturday morning
For more information: click here
Ferme du Suet, Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
Every Monday in the late afternoon
For more information: click here
Regular activities
Savoyard Evenings
Every Wednesday, throughout the year
Manigod
Come and discover the traditions of Haute Savoie in a warm and authentic atmosphere, with a dinner featuring local flavours accompanied by musical and folk entertainment.
Night-time Walk at the Heritage House
Every Monday and Thursday, from 4 July to 21 August
Le Grand-Bornand
The Maison du Patrimoine organises a lantern-lit walk twice a week from 8:30pm, sharing anecdotes, traditions, and scenes from everyday life in the past in a friendly atmosphere.
Cold water swimming
Every Monday, from 6 July to 24 August
Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
Come and experience the benefits of cold-water immersion in a safe natural setting. The session combines breathing techniques, mental preparation and immersion, offering a revitalising and transformative experience.
Introduction to biathlon
Every Tuesday, from 7 July to 25 August
Thônes
Led by professionals, this introductory session will allow participants to discover one of the iconic mountain disciplines, combining physical effort and precision, in a fun atmosphere suited to beginners.
Family e-MTB Ride
Every Wednesday, from 15 July to 26 August
Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
The Saint-Jean-de-Sixt Tourist Office invites you to this enjoyable electric mountain bike ride from 10am to noon every Wednesday. You will cycle along the Aravis trails with by a professional guide. The ride costs €40 per person.
The Electric Investigation
Every Thursday, from 16 July to 27 August
Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
In this real-life investigation, the clues are based on the heritage and legends of the valley. Equipped with your electric mountain bike, you will need to use your observation skills and teamwork to solve this mysterious case…
Stargazing Evening
Every Thursday, from 16 July to 27 August
Saint-Jean-de-Sixt
The mountains have always been an ideal place for observing the stars and constellations. This weekly event offers the opportunity to interpret the night sky and discover all its secrets with the help of an astronomer.
Children’s Foam Party
Every Friday, from 18 July to 7 August
Le Grand-Bornand
This activity will transform Le Grand-Bornand into a giant party with music, foam, where children can dance and play in a fun environment specially designed for them.
Outdoor Yoga
From 19 July to 23 August
Thônes
Work on balance and muscle strengthening during these Vinyasa yoga sessions at the top of the Beauregard plateau, with a breathtaking view of the Aravis mountains.
Music: Midday jazz at Le 1647
Every Sunday, from 19 July to 23 August
Thônes
Enjoy a lively Sunday lunch with these musical gatherings at Le 1647 mountain restaurant. Fine food, music and breathtaking views will delight all of your senses.
The information presented in this article is accurate as of the date of publication. As organisers may change dates, times, prices, or access conditions without notice, we recommend checking the official channels of each event before your visit.
Practical advice to help you plan your holiday
Tourist offices
Check the websites of the tourist offices to find out about other concerts, exhibitions, and guided tours taking place during your stay:
Transport
By car: Take exit 16 (Bonneville). Follow the direction “Aravis Resorts”, which will take you to the resorts in around 20 minutes via the northern route.
By train: Annecy train station has direct trains from Paris (around 3 hours 45 minutes) and many other major cities. From the station exit, the regional bus company (Y62–Y63 lines) provides connections to the resorts in 45 minutes to 1 hour.
By plane: the nearest airports are Geneva Airport (GVA), just 50 km away (around a one-hour drive), and Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), 150 km away (1 hour 45 minutes by car).
Book your summer holiday in the Aravis
Thanks to its exceptional natural surroundings and pleasant temperatures, summer is the ideal time to discover the Aravis. Away from the hustle and bustle of winter, summer offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere where markets, traditional festivals and events set the pace of the season. The mountains then reveal a completely different side, appealing to both nature lovers and families looking for a change of scenery.
Book your chalet in the Aravis
And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter to receive all the latest information and exclusive offers in advance, so you can plan your summer holiday in the Aravis!
