As autumn fades and the first hints of winter appear, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc prepares for another exciting season ahead. The valley is getting ready to welcome visitors with a packed calendar of sporting events, cultural highlights, and festive moments that capture the best of life in the mountains.
No matter if you’re a skier, snowboarder, or simply here to enjoy the alpine atmosphere, winter in Chamonix offers something for everyone.
Ski Season Opening and Highlights
The ski season in Chamonix officially kicks off on December 20, 2025, with all major ski areas opening their lifts. Skiers and snowboarders can look forward to a full season across the valley’s renowned resorts, including Grands Montets, Brévent, Flégère, and Les Houches. The season is set to conclude on May 3, 2026, with Grands Montets remaining open until then, offering some of the longest ski days in the Alps.
Book your passes in advance for the best price, they will get more expensive the closer to your holiday! Chamonix All Year guests get the best prices via this exclusive discount link! Collection is hassle-free with a QR code from one of the automatic terminals at the bottom of any lift station on your first day.
Early December: iF3 Chamonix — Mountains, Films & Action
From 4 to 7 December 2025, Chamonix becomes the backdrop for a unique mountain-film festival. iF3 Chamonix brings together athletes, filmmakers, outdoor brands and snow-lovers for screenings, mountain-training sessions, exhibitions and concerts.
Held at venues like Cinéma Vox in the heart of the valley, the event also features themed screenings (for example: “Never Stop” and a special session with Benjamin Védrines). It’s a perfect start to the season — inspirational, social and full of mountain-vibes — and sets the tone for the coming winter adventure.
Christmas and New Year
The festive atmosphere takes over Chamonix in December, with the Christmas Market from 18 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, open daily from 11:30 to 19:00. Set on the Place du Triangle de l’Amitié. The wooden chalets showcase artisans, artists, and local producers offering handmade gifts, festive treats, and plenty of vin chaud to keep you warm.
Restaurants and bars embrace the season with special menus and themed evenings, while the town’s decorations and snowy backdrop make it a magical time for winter walks and family get-togethers.
For New Year’s Eve, one of the standout celebrations is at La Folie Douce Hotel, which transforms into an extravagant Great Palace from 22:00 to 05:00. Expect artistic performances, reinvented spaces (from a glowing club to hidden bars), and a night full of surprises — all with a Gatsby-inspired dress code. Places are limited, so booking onto the guest list is essential.
January: Freeride Competitions and Après-Ski Energy
January brings action and adrenaline. On 25 January 2026, the Freeride World Tour Qualifier returns to Grands Montets, where some of the world’s most skilled freeriders showcase their lines and technique. On the same day, the Evolution 2 Freeride Series highlights freestyle skiing and snowboarding, with creative tricks and bold descents.
Insider tip: Head up to Grands Montets early to catch the best views — it’s a true spectacle to watch.
Throughout January and February, the valley stays lively with smaller ski events, live music, and themed après-ski evenings in Chamonix’s many venues. Couples visiting around Valentine’s Day can enjoy special menus or join guided activities designed for two.
For a slower pace, try the free Thursday evening cross-country skiing sessions at Bois du Bouchet during the French school holidays or book a wine-tasting session at Bottega Marta Vini, near the Aiguille du Midi train stop.
March: Unlimited Festival and Spring Vibes
As winter edges into spring, the Unlimited Festival returns from 25–29 March.
More than a traditional music festival, Unlimited blends winter sports, visual arts, and fresh talent, bringing together an international community of skiers, riders, creatives, and music lovers. Born from the original Black Crows Weekend, the festival continues to embody the meeting point between freeski culture and urban creativity.
All events are accessible with a special festival pass — which also includes lift access, evening parties, and après-ski happy hours. You can book tickets online, and keep an eye out for free pop-up concerts at Place du Mont Blanc throughout the week.
May: Freeride Day at Grands Montets
On 3 May 2026, Freeride Day marks the official end of the winter season in Chamonix, and it’s always one of the valley’s biggest mountain parties. Come dressed to celebrate the closing day at Les Grands Montets, where the slopes turn into a full-day festival of music, games, food, drink, and plenty of spring-skiing fun.
Expect classics like the waterslide (and try to make it across the pool if you can!), a fancy-dress contest, and live music to keep the atmosphere going. It’s the perfect final send-off before the lifts close until next winter.
Plan Your Winter in Chamonix
From the first flakes of December to the softening snow of March, Chamonix in 2025–2026 promises a winter packed with adventure, discovery, and memorable mountain moments. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline on the slopes, enjoying après-ski life like a local, or exploring cultural highlights, the valley delivers an unforgettable alpine experience.
For the perfect base during your stay, book your accommodation with Chamonix All Year offering hand-picked chalets and apartments across the valley, ideal for making the most of every event this winter.
