That's La Plagne
La Plagne Torchlight Descent: P'tits Flambeaux
The yearly La Plagne torchlight descent for charity that you can get involved in!
Join behind the scenes today and get the insider scoop
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.
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, the first ever “P'tits Flambeaux” event lit up ski slopes across France. Ski instructors from the French 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, selling 20,000 torches 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.
P'tits Flambeaux La Plagne Torchlight Descent
The P'tits Flambeaux is 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:
- Adults: Level 2
- Kids: Bronze star and above
- If your kids want to do it, you don't need to accompany them. They will be under the supervision of the ESF instructors.
- Head to one of the tourist info 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 in your village about 30 to 15 minutes before the starting time below and enjoy!
- Plagne Centre & Aime 2000 – Becoin Chairlift 6 pm
- Plagne Villages – In front of the Casa de L'Ours restaurant 6 pm
- Plagne Soleil – on the snow front 6 pm
- Montalbert 6 pm
- Belle Plagne & Bellecote – Blanchets chairlift 6 pm
- Montchavin – Les Coches telecabin, 630 pm
- Les Coches 615 pm
- Champagny 530 pm
That's La Plagne & torhlight 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!
