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What’s on in the Aravis – Winter 2023/24

Whether you love to ski all day, every day or prefer to cosy up in your OVO Network chalet after a day spent exploring the area, the Aravis resorts offer plenty to keep you entertained both on and off the slopes. Take a look at some of the main events taking place over the coming winter months…

(Please note – All details were accurate when publishing this article, however, all events and activities are subject to change. Please check the details of the event before setting out to visit. Wherever possible we have included links to English information pages.)


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Throughout the Season

Image: © Aravis/David Machet

Local Markets in the Aravis

Enjoy shopping at one of the area’s local markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce and charcuterie to pottery and handmade gifts…

  • Les Grand-Bornand – Wednesdays, 8h to noon
  • La Clusaz – Mondays, 8h to noon
  • Thônes – Saturdays, 8h to 13h
  • Annecy – Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, 8h to noon
A woman at a farmers' amrket
Don’t forget to visit the markets for fresh weekly produce ©Aravis/Tilby Vattard

Night skiing and sledging

Several stations offer regular night skiing or sledging, which is a holiday highlight for many of our guests.

Night Skiing in Le Grand Bornand

In Chinaillon you can join a torchlit descent on one of the longest lit-up slopes in the Haute Savoie area – accompanied by the French ski school instructors! If skiing isn’t your thing, but you want to accompany your group, you will find mulled wine and hot chocolate offered at the bottom of the slopes. Takes place every Wednesday, but check the website to confirm details of dates and ski bus times. 

You can also do a ‘night glide’ every Tuesday evening, from 17h -20h, on one of the longest illuminated slopes in the Haute Savoie. Go by ski, yooner, fatbike, paret or snowscoot! Check out more details here.

Night skiing in Manigod

You can ski under the stars until 21h every Friday and Saturday night in Manigod, one of the biggest night skiing areas in the Haute Savoie. During school holidays, the slopes are also open until 21h Monday to Saturday so everyone can experience skiing in the dark! The restaurants on the pistes stay open too, making it a night out to remember.

Night Paret sledging in Manigod

Come along after the pistes close to try the wooden sledge that is native to Manigod, under the supervision of ESF instructors.  Once used by the village children to get to school, now it’s mainly used for fun. You can also try the paret at night on a lit track!

3 people sledge at night
© C.Hudry, Le Grand Bornand Tourisme

Other regular events

Discover the job of a snow groomer in Le Grand Bornand

As night descends over Le Grand Bornand, witness the dedicated groomers meticulously maintaining and sculpting the slopes. Join a groomer who will share insights about their profession and the intricate machines they operate. Find out more here.

Discover the Heritage House in Le Grand Bornand

All winter, come and explore the local culture at the Heritage House in Le Grand Bornand. A traditional farmhouse dating back to the 19th century, it’s steeped in a rich history waiting to be discovered. Night tours are also available.

DJ Evenings on the Ice in Le Grand Bornand

Date: Wednesdays 23 December – 5 January

Location: Le Grand Bornand

Head down to the ice rink in Le Grand Bornand for a fun evening dancing to live DJ sets from 8.30 pm to 10.30 pm. Visit the website for more details.

Dance Party for Kids

Keep the kids entertained with regular dance parties taking place every Friday at the Grenette in Le Grand Bornand. It’s free to participate and fun is guaranteed! Find out more here.

Awakening of the animals workshop

In this interactive workshop, both children and their parents embark on a journey to explore the animals that were once an integral part of traditional farms in Le Grand-Bornand. With the guidance of an expert, children will have the opportunity to witness these animals come to life as they wake up, complete with a lively dance performed by all participants.

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Events and entertainment

©OT La Clusaz / Lionel Koch Mathian

December

Concert of Saint Cecelia
2 December
Le Grand Bornand

Come and enjoy some live music at the Concert of Saint Cecilia and kick the festive season off in style. More information can be found on the website.

Spectacle sur Glace
23 December
La Clusaz

Join the La Clusaz Sports Club for their timeless ice show. With captivating costumes, music, and rhythmic performances, it promises a fantastic evening on the ice, complemented by a refreshing drink and delectable farmhouse Reblochon cheese. Find out more here.

Alpine Christmas
25 November until 6 January 
Annecy

Christmas starts early in Annecy, with the old town lit up from late November. Alongside the various markets you will find an outdoor ice skating rink, Santa’s village, a Christmas food market and a programme of concerts. Check the tourist office for details as they become available, and take a look at our blog post on Annecy at Christmas.

Christmas Cheer
24 December
Manigod

Enjoy the festivities from 3-6 pm in Manigod at Merdassier. With workshops, Christmas concerts and, of course, the arrival of Santa himself. Please check the website for more details of the programme. 

Pestacles du Père Noël
23 December 2023 – 5 January 2024  
La Clusaz

This fabulous street festival has been going on for over 20 years and is one of the biggest in the Alps. The village is transformed into a festive wonderland for a celebration of Christmas, with something for all ages. Expect a visit from Father Christmas, as well as magicians, puppet shows, story-telling and music throughout the village. Find out more here.

Santa Claus in Le Grand Bornand Chinaillon
24 December
Chinaillon, Le Grand Bornand

From 5.30 pm on Christmas Eve, head to Le Grand Bornand Chinaillon for a magical evening including a torchlight descent by French ski school instructors, a Christmas parade, and the arrival of Santa Claus himself! Read more here.

Children in Santa's Grotto
Kids will love Christmas in Le Grand Bornand! ©Alpcat Medias – Le Grand Bornand Tourisme

Arrival of Father Christmas
24 December
La Clusaz

On his world tour, Father Christmas will make a stop at Champ-Giguet, with a range of surprises in store. Find out more here.

Gospel Angel
24 December
Le Grand Bornand

Join the Gospel Angel Band for a festive evening of music to get in the Christmas spirit. Find the full details online.

Fireshow
26 December
Le Grand Bornand

A fun evening for all the family, this show combines the latest LED techniques with incredible pyrotechnic special effects. Find out more on the website.

Torchlight descent for children
27 December
La Clusaz

From 5 pm to 6.30 pm children can take part in a magical torchlight descent. Find out more details here.

Paret Championship
29 December
Manigod

The wooden paret sledge, which has just one runner, was once used by children in the Aravis to get to school in the winter. Now it’s a popular sport, both with residents and visitors. Participants in the championships take things pretty seriously, reaching speeds of up to 90km per hour. If you want to join in, you can borrow a paret from the tourist office by presenting your ID. Check the full details here.

New Year’s Eve party
31 December  
Le Grand Bornand 

There’s music, fireworks, as well as a food and drink display organised by the Ski Club Association as the village welcomes in the New Year. The party starts at 18h30 – find out more on the tourism website! Click here for details.

Fireworks explode over mountains
© J. Cathala, Le Grand Bornand Tourism

New Year’s Eve
31 December
Manigod

Start the celebrations for 2024 by enjoying night skiing on the largest illuminated ski area of Savoie Mont Blanc, and then watch fireworks and entertainment. Click here to find out more.

Ski show
31 December
Champ Giguet, La Clusaz

Enjoy a spectacular torchlit descent and ski show by instructors from the ESF. Mulled wine, hot chocolate and Reblochon will be available to sample.


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January

Fireshow
2 January
Le Grand Bornand

A fun evening for all the family, this show combines the latest LED techniques with incredible pyrotechnic special effects. Find out more on the website.

Torchlight descent 
3 January
La Clusaz

A torchlight descent for children, accompanied by the ESF instructors. It’s free to take part and you’re sure to take away some special memories. It takes place from 5 to 6.30 pm and full details can be found on the website.

ESF instructors preparing for the torchlit descent
A torchlit descent is a perfect activity to enjoy with children in the Alps. ©Alpcat Medias – Le Grand Bornand Tourisme

Epiphany at La Clusaz
8 January
La Clusaz

Celebrate Epiphany in the Place de l’Eglise with the traditional galette des rois, accompanied by mulled wine and hot chocolate. 

Le Belier Blanc Trail 
12 & 13 January
La Clusaz

More than 2,000 runners and walkers are expected to take part in this annual trail. There’s a 6km snowshoe trek, as well as a choice of ‘white’ trails for runners. There’s a hot meal for all the competitors when they arrive back in the village at the end of the course. If you’re not taking part, there’s still plenty of entertainment to enjoy. Check the website for registration details.

Paret Championship
12 & 26 January
Manigod

Competitors of all ages take part in this thrilling but fun evening competition on Manigod’s traditional paret sledge. The fun takes place at La Croix Fry or Merdassier – check the website for full details. 

Torchlit Descent
15 January
La Clusaz

Join the ESF team for a special torchlit descent from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm in the heart of La Clusaz. Keep an eye on the website for more details.

Radio Meuh Circus Party
27 January
La Clusaz

Join the party! With live music and DJ sets, this popular event takes place from 5 to 10 pm and there’s a choice of food and drinks to enjoy in between the dancing!

Radiomeuh DJs performing to a crowd
Radiomeuh Circus Festival is one for the party animals! ©OT La Clusaz/C Hudry

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February

Fireworks show
Every Wednesday in February
Place de l’Église, La Clusaz

Meet at the Place de l’Eglise in La Clusaz and enjoy an exciting fireworks show!

Guided Tour of Chinaillon’s Old Village
Mondays throughout February
Chinaillon, Le Grand Bornand

Discover Chinaillon’s historic village dating back to the 17th century, as well as the development of the ski resort. In February tours are held every Monday at 10.30 am.

LCZ Freestyle Week 
5 – 9 February
La Clusaz

Freestyle has a great history in La Clusaz, which is home to champions such as Edgar Grospiron and Candide Thovex. The LCZ Freestyle Week is a great opportunity to see and marvel at the talents of some of the best freestyle skiers.

A freestyle skier performing a trick in the park.
If you’re seeking an adrenaline-fuelled spectacle this winter, make sure to visit the LCZ Freestyle Week! ©OT La Clusaz/David Machet

Handcrafted Market
6, 20 & 27 February
La Clusaz

Come and support the members of the Association of Aravis creators. Browse the stalls and meet woodworkers, glassmakers, soap makers, painters, ceramists, mosaicists, jewellers, graphic designers, dressmakers, candle makers and more! Check the website for full details.

Paret Championships 
9 & 23 February
Manigod

Competitors of all ages take part in this thrilling but fun evening competition on Manigod’s traditional paret sledge. The fun takes place at La Croix Fry or Merdassier – check the website for full details. 

Torchlit Descent
15, 21 & 28 February
La Clusaz

Join the ESF team for a special torchlit descent from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm in the heart of La Clusaz. Keep an eye on the website for more details.

Ski Show
19 & 26 February
La Clusaz

Enjoy a spectacular torchlit descent and ski show by instructors from the ESF. Mulled wine, hot chocolate and Reblochon will be available to sample.

Spectacle de feu 
21 February
Place de l’Église, La Clusaz

Meet at the Place de l’Eglise in La Clusaz and enjoy an exciting fire show! Find out more here.

Carnival
13 February
Le Grand Bornand Chinaillon

Dress up for the apres-ski parade and enjoy a torchlight descent, fireshow, games and a DJ party! Starts from 15h.

Carnival 
13 February
La Clusaz

This is one of the highlights of the winter season in La Clusaz, for guests and residents. Ski instructors and guides take part in a fancy dress parade through the village, and there’s plenty of music, as well as a firework finale. Find out full details here.

Fire Show
14, 21 & 28 February
La Clusaz

A fun evening for all the family, this show combines the latest LED techniques with incredible pyrotechnic special effects. Find out more on the website.

Ski show
19 February
Champ Giguet, La Clusaz

Enjoy a spectacular torchlit descent and ski show by instructors from the ESF. Mulled wine, hot chocolate and Reblochon will be available to sample.

Fireshow
20 & 27 February
Le Grand Bornand

A fun evening for all the family, this show combines the latest LED techniques with incredible pyrotechnic special effects. Find out more on the website.

©

The Star of Manigod
21 February
Col de Merdassier, Manigod

Meet on the slopes from 11h until 18h for an afternoon and evening of fun. Try out handiski and paret sledging, and enjoy the music and a marshmallow party. Once darkness falls, there’s a torchlit descent organised by the ESF instructors, followed by fireworks. If you’re hungry, choose from crepes, soup or tartiflette. Check the website for more details.

TOUT SCHUSS POUR L’UNICEF!
23 February
La Clusaz

Come and support this fantastic charity event in aid of UNICEF. Expect a timed slalom, torchlit descent, entertainment and refreshments. Find out more here.

Venetian Carnival 
23 – 25 February
Annecy

The canals of Annecy are the backdrop for the annual Venetian Carnival, when hundreds of extravagantly costumed characters promenade through the medieval town. Don’t forget your camera!

3 people dressed in costumes for the Venetian carnival
© French Moments

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March

Fireshow
5 March
Le Grand Bornand

A fun evening for all the family, this show combines the latest LED techniques with incredible pyrotechnic special effects. Find out more on the website.

A person performs on the street using fire
© Le Grand Bornand Tourism

Handcrafted Market
5 & 12 Marc
La Clusaz

Come and support the members of the Association of Aravis creators. Browse the stalls and meet woodworkers, glassmakers, soap makers, painters, ceramists, mosaicists, jewellers, graphic designers, dressmakers, candle makers and more! Check the website for full details.

Paret Championships
9 March
Manigod

Competitors of all ages take part in this thrilling evening competition on Manigod’s traditional paret sledge – once used by children to get home from school. The fun takes place at La Croix Fry or Merdassier – check the website for full details. 

3 people paret sledging down a ski slope
© C.Hudry, Le Grand Bornand Tourism

Torchlit Descent
11 March
La Clusaz

Join the ESF team for a special torchlit descent from 6.30 pm to 7 pm in the heart of La Clusaz along with a concert by Bull Rock Legacy. Keep an eye on the website for more details.

Savoyarde Night
13 March
La Clusaz

Come and discover the traditions and customs of the local region courtesy of Lou Socali folklore group. Enjoy a typical mountain meal and enjoy entertainment in the form of folk dancing. Click here to find out more.

Glisse en Coeur 
22 – 24 March
Chinaillon, Le Grand Bornand

It’s 24-hour non-stop skiing and music at the 15th edition of this charity event, which has raised more than €2m for good causes. For the latest news on the events and music line-up, go to the website.

2 people ski down the slope with spectators watching
© T Vattard, Le Grand Bornand Tourism

Good Vibes Week
17 – 22 March
La Clusaz

Come along and discover various forms of yoga at this well-being event for all ages. There’s also meditation, massage, essential oils and much more to explore. Check the website for more details of the programme.


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April

Radiomeuh Circus Festival
4 – 7 April
La Clusaz

This annual festival is organised by Radiomeuh, an online radio station based in La Clusaz with 3.3 million listeners around the world. Over the three evenings, the circus tent hosts about 10 acts, with more going on at restaurants and on the pistes. Check out the website for the line-up nearer the date.

Radiomeuh DJs in concert
©OT La Clusaz/C Hudry

Annecy Half-Marathon
13 April
Lake Annecy

There could hardly be a more spectacular setting for a half marathon, between the snow-capped mountains and the turquoise waters of Lake Annecy. Even if you’re not taking part, it’s a great spectacle, with music and a great party atmosphere. Find out more here.

Boarder Line
14 April
La Clusaz

Join the best Nordic athletes from the Aravis and the French Alps for a unique skicross race! Thrill guaranteed!

Defi Foly
20 – 21 April
Lac des Confins, La Clusaz

Every year since 1987, 150 of the area’s craziest skiers have headed for the Lac des Confins to mark the end of the ski season in La Clusaz. The idea is to ski down the hill and see how far you can get across the icy lake before you sink, and are rescued by boat. It’s a great day for spectators too – bring a picnic and grab a good spot on the hillside for this day-long event.

A person skis across water
© La Clusaz Tourist Office

Season Finale
28 April
La Clusaz

Celebrate the end of the ski season and enjoy live DJ sets for an unforgettable party at Balme! Find out more details here.


These are just some of the fantastic events happening in the Aravis over the 2021/22 ski season. For the full programme, go to the tourist office website for your chosen area: 

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