That's La Plagne contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon affiliate program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive a small commission - at no extra cost to you. I never recommend anything I haven't experienced myself, and the commission helps me keep this site running at full speed! See my Disclosure Policy for extra information.
2026 P'tits Flambeaux La Plagne Torchlight Descent
The 2025 P'tits Flambeaux is happening on Wednesday 19th February 2026 and the best part? It's open for nearly everyone to get involved in, from adults to kids. All you need to do is:
- Check your ski level. You need to have a good ski level. If your kids want to do it, you don't need to accompany them. They will be under the supervision of the ESF instructors.
- Adults from 2nd class ski level with ESF
- Kids need to be 2nd star with ESF ski levels
- Head to one of the ESF offices in any of the participating villages to buy your torch. Don't worry! They aren't real flames but battery plastic torches. They cost 10€, and the money goes to the charities.
- Head to the meeting point on the snow front at the Becoin chairlift in Plagne Centre for 5.45pm for a 6pm start.
Torchlight Descent in La Plagne
Lighting Up La Plagne: A Tradition and Charity Combined
Torchlight descents are one of the most enchanting traditions in ski resorts around the world, and La Plagne is no exception. Picture this: as dusk falls over the snow-covered peaks, a procession of skiers, each holding a flaming torch, begins their descent down the mountain.
The sight is breathtaking – a flowing river of light that illuminates the night with a warm, inviting glow. These events, steeped in tradition, are not just for show; they symbolise the unity, spirit, and passion of the skiing community.
Traditionally, torchlight descents mark significant occasions throughout the ski season—Christmas, New Year's Eve, and school holidays. They are moments of celebration, bringing together ski instructors, locals, and visitors in a spectacular display of light and skiing prowess.
However, despite their popularity, these descents are often exclusive to ski professionals and instructors, leaving many wishing for a chance to participate in this mesmerizing experience.
This exclusivity is what makes the “P'tits Flambeaux” event in La Plagne and other participating resorts so special. Unlike traditional torchlight descents, the “P'tits Flambeaux” offers a unique opportunity for everyone to be part of this beautiful tradition. It's not just an event; it's an invitation to join in a communal gesture of goodwill, extending the magic of the mountains to those who can only dream of it.
My boys did this last winter and LOVED IT! We will be there again this year.
Get all the juiciest inside secrets about La Plagne, direct to your inbox.
La Plagne lift pass sales, accommodation deals & ski school discounts before anyone else knows about them.
The “P'tits Flambeaux” Event: A Beacon of Hope
Initiated by France Montagnes, the national association of mountain resort mayors, and Domaines Skiables de France. The “P'tits Flambeaux” event is more than just a tradition; it's a mission to make ski holidays accessible to children who dream of snow but have never felt it beneath their skis. This initiative is a heartwarming example of how the mountain community in France, including us here in La Plagne, comes together to share the joy of skiing with those less fortunate.
On a chilly evening on February 15th, 2024, the first-ever “P'tits Flambeaux” event lit up ski slopes across France. Ski instructors from the ESF ski school, alongside community members, glided down the slopes, torches in hand, not just to create a spectacle but to light the way for a cause close to our hearts.
Jean-Luc Boch, President of France Montagnes and the National Association of Mountain Resort Mayors, captured the essence of the event, stating, “We need to show that mountain people have a heart.” His presence in Villard-de-Lans and Corrençon-en-Vercors underscored the communal support for the initiative, which hopes to become an annual highlight.
The inaugural “P'tits Flambeaux” event was a resounding success. 20,000 torches were sold at ten euros each, raising a total of €200,000. Thanks to the participation of 121 partner ski resorts, including La Plagne, children across France will now have the chance to experience the magic of a ski holiday.
That's La Plagne & torchlight descent adventures
“Torch-lit ski descents have been in our DNA for almost 80 years,” remarks Eric Brèche, President of the Syndicat national. This event is a testament to the enduring legacy and the evolving purpose of our skiing culture—to not only celebrate our love for the mountains but to extend it to those who can only dream of such adventures.
As we look forward to making the “P'tits Flambeaux” an annual tradition, we're reminded of the power of community and the joy of sharing our passion for skiing with the next generation. It's not just about the descent; it's about ascending toward a future where every child can experience the thrill of the slopes.
See you on the slopes!
