The 2025/2026 ski season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in years — and with so many incredible weekend events on the calendar, it’s the perfect time to start planning your snowy getaways. Whether you’re heading to France, Austria, or Italy, this season’s ski resorts are promising unforgettable parties, races, and mountain experiences from December through March. Here’s a breakdown of the must-attend weekends, special offers, and tips to make the most of your time on the slopes.
December Weekend Events – The Season Kick-Off
December marks the start of the ski season, and resorts across Europe go all out to celebrate.
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Val Thorens (France) opens the party with its Grande Première Weekend (30 Nov–1 Dec), offering discounted lift passes, ski tests, and après-ski fun.
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Ischgl (Austria) hosts its legendary Top of the Mountain Opening Concert the first weekend of December — expect big-name acts and fireworks over the slopes.
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Cervinia (Italy) brings early snow enthusiasts together with free guided ski tours and local wine tastings.
Tip: Book early-season accommodation for great deals and quieter slopes before the Christmas rush.
Christmas & New Year Weekend Events – December to January
The holidays bring a magical atmosphere to every mountain.
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Chamonix (France) and Morzine hold Christmas markets and torchlight descents, perfect for families.
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St. Anton (Austria) goes big on New Year’s Eve fireworks and slope-side champagne parties.
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Cortina d’Ampezzo (Italy) combines luxury and tradition with gala dinners and elegant après-ski events.
Tip: These weekends book up fast! Transfers, lift passes, and restaurants are best secured weeks in advance
January Weekend Events – Races, Powder & Fun
January is prime time for serious skiing and adrenaline-packed weekends events.
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Les Arcs (France) hosts the Arc 1950 Winter Festival mid-January, featuring DJ sets, parades, and snow sports challenges.
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Kitzbühel (Austria) takes centre stage with the world-famous Hahnenkamm Races (24–26 January 2026). It’s one of the biggest weekends of the ski season, drawing fans and celebrities alike.
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Livigno (Italy) celebrates La Skieda, a telemark ski festival filled with fun races and local feasts.
Tip: Combine racing weekends with relaxing spa days — many resorts now offer “ski and spa” packages for a perfect winter balance.
February Weekend Events – Carnival Season & Peak Snow
February brings deep snow and high spirits, making it one of the best months for mountain celebrations.
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La Plagne (France) lights up with its Fire & Ice Carnival mid-February — a mix of torchlight skiing, parades, and live music.
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Sölden (Austria) hosts Electric Mountain Festival weekends all month long, with big-name DJs on open-air stages.
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Madonna di Campiglio (Italy) celebrates Carnevale Asburgico, a royal-themed carnival with costumed parades and ice skating shows.
Tip: February is peak season — check with us for shared transfer options to save money while avoiding long travel times.
March Weekend Events – Spring Skiing & Closing Parties
As the sun gets stronger and snow turns to soft spring powder, the final weekends events of the season offer pure mountain joy.
- Avoriaz (France) wraps things up with Rock the Pistes Festival (mid-March), where live bands perform on snowy stages across the Portes du Soleil.
- St. Anton (Austria) keeps the vibe going with the White Thrill Race — a thrilling end-of-season downhill event.
- Cervinia and Courmayeur (Italy) both host end-of-season après-ski parties with DJs, BBQs, and discounts on ski passes.
Tip: March weekends are perfect for long lunches in the sun, exploring mountain terraces, and snapping those bluebird-day photos.
Off-Slope Fun: Bars, Restaurants & Events Worth Chasing
Big Events to Plan Around
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Torchlight descents and night skiing nights are staples in many Alpine resorts.
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Music festivals, DJ sets, mountain concerts: resorts like Méribel, Val d’Isère, and St. Anton often host such events midseason.
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Some resorts will launch seasonal kickoff events tied to opening days, free concerts, or party nights. Always check local resort calendars.
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