December is always a busy month, the Christmas and New Year brings a flurry of social and sporting events, so take a look at our events calendar for more details.
Christmas
The festive season in the snowy Alps is always magical and every year there is some sort of celebration in resort to mark the occasion. Christmas in Val d'Isere officially starts at the beginning of December when the Christmas lights are switched on. The night is marked with vin chaud, hot chocolate and music. From then on you can enjoy Christmas concerts, festive markets and live music throughout town as the resort gears up for Christmas and New Year.
New Year's Eve
Come midnight the hoards of merry revellers head the centre of town for the big countdown – not an official event as such, more of a long-held tradition. On the stroke of midnight you are advised to duck as champagne corks and fireworks are unleashed in celebration! Likewise, planning ahead is advised if you have your heart set on ringing in the New Year in a particular bar or club – some of them are ticket-only, so enquire in advance to avoid disappointment!
World Cup downhill and giant slalom
Aside from all the festivities, head to the Face de Bellevarde and the OK slopes which hosts one of the biggest draws of the season over two consecutive weekends. Alongside the action on the slopes there's exhibitions from the big brands, ski testing and tasty Savoyard specialties. Night time sees DJs and live music closing down the resort to traffic.