Skiing And Snowboarding In Chamonix At Christmas

There is something very special about skiing and snowboarding during the festive period, and it’s even more magical hitting the slopes on Christmas morning with a blanket of freshly fallen snow glistening in the sunlight beneath your skis or snowboard.

A Christmas Tradition on the Snow

I skied on 25 December every season for about 30 years and our family created a tradition of making our way to somewhere overlooking a great view where we would stop, unpack a small bottle of fizz, plus a few bacon rolls from our backpacks, and raise a glass to Christmas.

Yuletide Festivities in Mountain Resorts

Ski areas are fantastic places to enjoy Yuletide festivities as these winter wonderlands in the mountains create the perfect atmosphere for the celebrations. And it’s fun looking out for a Santa Claus and a few elves out on skis and snowboards.

Resorts always put on plenty of special Christmas related events for all ages. Take Chamonix in the French Alps for example.

A Winter Wonderland Celebration

This season there will already be a special atmosphere from December onwards when the resort launches its Centenary celebrations to commemorate when Chamonix hosted the first-ever Winter Olympics in the 1923/24 season.

Christmas Delights in Chamonix

Special festive illuminations will be switched on and this will be followed by a series of Christmas themed markets where you can pick up any last-minute presents while enjoying some local delicacies washed down by a warming hot chocolate – or maybe something a little stronger!

You will find the main market located in the Place du Triangle de l’Amitié close to the Office du Tourisme. The stalls are attractive wooden chalets where craftsmen, artists, and other tradespeople are displaying their Christmas products every day between 11am to 8pm from 16 December to 7 January.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Delights

On Christmas Eve there will be a puppet show, entertainment, and other activities for children in the Parc Couttet and the Maison des Artistes. This will be just one of the attractions taking place during a Christmas parade through the streets of Chamonix.

This parade, known as ‘Déambul’ starts at 5.30pm. It will feature wonderful sights including ‘Farandole’, a spectacular dance show, and Les Lutins, when festive goblins and cheeky sorcerer’s apprentices entertain the throngs of people lining the streets with tricks and acrobatics. All the entertainment is being provided for free courtesy of the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Valley Tourist Office.

The ESF is treating visitors to a Christmas Eve Torchlight Descent as the sun sets over the mountains, and for those who want to participate in the more traditional festivities, there will be carol concerts in French and English and midnight masses in the local churches, plus morning services on Christmas Day.

On Christmas morning, Santa Claus will be donning his red suit and a pair of skis so he can join skiers and snowboarders for a few runs in all of the villages in the valley including Servoz, Les Houches, Chamonix, Argentière, and Vallorcine.

Culinary Delights and Unique Experiences

Many of Chamonix’s restaurants and hotels will be providing special Christmas lunch and dinner menus. And there will be some lovely aromas coming from self-catering apartments and chalets as people willingly take on the challenge of preparing a traditional turkey meal with all the trimmings.

However, for something a little different, trade in the traditional Christmas feast for a unique experience up in the mountains. Several mountain huts in Chamonix offer special Christmas Day brunches, allowing you to enjoy delicious alpine cuisine and a glass of mulled wine while taking in the panoramic views of snow-covered peaks.

Beyond the Slopes: Holiday Activities

To maintain the festive holiday spirit away from the slopes, try one of the many other activities available in Chamonix. For example, hire yourself a pair of skates and take a glide around the ice rink in the village square under the stars surrounded by Christmas lights, decorations and the natural beauty of snow-covered mountains. A picturesque and romantic Christmas activity for families and couples.

Festive Après-Ski Vibes

Après-ski in the Chamonix Valley is always congenial and the festive period adds to the atmosphere. Bars around the villages host special holiday-themed parties, complete with live music, DJs, and seasonal drinks. Unbuckle your ski boots and dance the night away while creating memories that will last forever.

What’s that I can hear in the distance? Gosh, it’s the sound of that old crooner Bing Crosby singing: “I’m dreaming of a white Christmas…’.

Skiing And Snowboarding In Chamonix At Christmas: A Summary

Chamonix during Christmas is a magical snow-filled paradise for skiers and snowboarders. The town brims with festive spirit, from dazzling markets and parades to Santa skiing through villages. Special events, delicious meals, and unique mountain brunches make it a holiday haven. After skiing, enjoy ice skating under the stars or join lively après-ski parties. It’s a charming blend of tradition, stunning scenery, and joyful celebrations that make for unforgettable Christmas memories.