The Saint-Gervais Lightsis the event that transforms the historic center during the holiday season. This festival goes far beyond simple string lights: visual artists project monumental works onto the Saint-Gervais baroque church, a local heritage gem.
Stroll through the town center at nightfall. Street performances and tastings of local products often accompany the projections. It is a free, sensory experience accessible to everyone.
It is no coincidence that Saint-Gervais regularly hosts a stage of the Telemark World Cup. The Val Montjoie holds a fundamental place in the history of this sport: it was here that France rediscovered this ancestral "free-heel" technique.
As early as 1988, the town made its mark by organizing the first international competition, followed by the second World Cup in history. Since then, Saint-Gervais has become a global benchmark, a land of champions where local figures like Jacques Gnemmi have excelled. In fact, it was a Saint-Gervais local, Amy Nguyen, who became the first French world champion in history.
The month of January in Saint-Gervais is highlighted by an unmissable event: the White Weekend. More than just a resort event, it is an immersive weekend dedicated to sports, discovery, and well-being, with a strong promise: over 30 activities and introductory sessions that are completely free for all visitors. Enjoy ski touring, snowshoeing, biathlon, avalanche transceiver (DVA) training, dog sledding, parallel slaloms, snow yoga, massage sessions, and herbal tea breaks for a rejuvenating pause facing the peaks.
This event is the perfect opportunity to try a new discipline without spending a cent!
Two pillars of trail running. The Montagn'Hard is renowned for its ruggedness and its views of Mont Blanc, while the Montée du Nid d'Aigle follows part of the Mont Blanc Tramway route.
Why go? Even if you aren't a runner, the atmosphere at the aid stations (like at the Col de Voza) is incredible. It’s a great opportunity to teach children about the values of perseverance and mountain life.
This is the "hidden gem" event of the summer in Saint-Gervais. Imagine a stage set up at over 1,500 meters in altitude, facing the mountain range. Spectators hike up or take the ski lifts to attend professional performances surrounded by grazing herds. A moment of pure poetry, perfect for a timeless family experience.
The Guides' Festival is the most important traditional event of the summer in Saint-Gervais. Celebrating the solidarity of mountain people, it features climbing demonstrations on the Contamines rock face or in the center of Saint-Gervais, followed by moving ceremonies and a spectacular fireworks display.
Autumn is often the locals' favorite season: the colors are vibrant and traditions take center stage once again.
This is the main event for Val Montjoie farmers. It’s the real deal: cattle shows featuring the famous Abondance cows with their dark "spectacles," cheese-making demonstrations, and a farmers' market. For children, it’s a giant open-air farm where they can get a hands-on look at alpine life and discover the richness of local flavors.
The local calendar is packed with other events that celebrate every facet of the mountains. On the cultural side, the Artocène festival brings together contemporary art, mountains, and architecture, while Alpi’Hours turns the village into a performance stage. For thrill-seekers, the sky comes alive with Flying Light and the rocks with the Roc Fest, while the Diagonale du Mont-Joly trail runners light up the night. These are just some of the highlights that make Saint-Gervais vibrant well beyond the ski slopes.
Choosing PlanB Living Saint-Gervais for a family getaway means opting for a place designed to experience the mountains differently, with total ease. Ideally located just a stone's throw from the train station and the Valléen lift, the hotel makes planning your days simple, whether you're here for a weekend or a longer vacation.
On-site, everything is designed to please both young and old: friendly spaces, restaurant, activities like bowling or games, and a lively atmosphere that extends the destination experience.
Between outdoor discoveries and shared moments at the hotel, PlanB stands out as a true landmark for making the most of Saint-Gervais with your family.
The "Lumières de Saint-Gervais Mont-Blanc" festival takes place every year during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Monumental projections light up the town center facades, including the Baroque church, from nightfall, offering a free artistic trail for families.
Summer in Saint-Gervais is defined by the Mont-Blanc Tramway, hiking facing the glaciers, and major events like the Théâtre dans les Alpages, the Montagn'Hard, and the Guides' Festival. It is also the perfect season for mountain biking, paragliding, and relaxing at the Saint-Gervais Thermal Baths.
The resort offers many free activities: the White Weekend in January (30 free activities), street performances during the Saint-Gervais Alpi Hours Festival in summer, and the Agricultural Fair in autumn. The Artocène trail in summer also provides a fun and free way to discover contemporary art as a family.
The town center is lively with several terraces and restaurants, but the go-to spot remains PlanB Living Saint-Gervais. With its bowling alley, board games, bar, and restaurant, it is the perfect place to enjoy a friendly atmosphere with the whole family.