Events, equipment tests and thrills - Val Thorens' "La Grande Première" promises the perfect start to the season!

Situated at an altitude of 2300 m, Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe, offering an exceptional playground for all lovers of skiing and other extreme sports. The resort is gradually getting ready to welcome its very first winter sports fans over the weekend of 23 and 24 November.

This is the perfect opportunity to organise its famous 'Grande Première', which marks the start of the season and brings visitors together to enjoy a host of sporting and social events. Why not get your tickets now?

Building on its success, La Grande Première is back for another edition! For two days, you'll have the chance to try out the latest innovations on the market in the test village on Place Caron, win lots of goodies and gifts, and take advantage of preferential rates on ski passes, accommodation and parking spaces.

For those with a sweet tooth, there will be several stands offering local specialities such as Savoyard beer, mulled wine and, of course, cheese. And there's a Raclette Party on Saturday from 5pm, so you can enjoy a delicious meal after a crazy day on the slopes. Not to be missed !

The Grande Première brings together the biggest brands in the world of extreme sports. Atomic, Salomon, Rossignol, Roxy, Flow... Although the list has yet to be finalised, dozens of brands will be on hand to let you test their ski and snowboard equipment directly on the slopes.

Depending on your discipline and your expectations, the professionals present in this ephemeral village will give you their valuable advice and guide you towards the equipment that suits your needs. And don't forget to check out the new accessories on offer from the manufacturers!

As you may have gathered, the ski lifts will be open this festive weekend, giving the most eager visitors the chance to be the first on the slopes. But don't worry if you don't take part in winter sports — there'll be plenty for you to enjoy too! La Grande Première has organised a variety of activities to suit all tastes, including live concerts, DJ sets, quizzes, photocall and fireworks.

At 3pm on both days, the ESF is organising a competition in the fun areas of the mini-snowpark. On Saturday evening, head to the Le Lac Blanc cinema in the centre of the resort for a screening of mountain films.

Local produce, sport, culture: the event combines a wide variety of activities to please as many people as possible. Exchange and conviviality are at the heart of the DNA of La Grande Première, and more broadly of that of the mountains. Want to extend your stay in Val Thorens after these two crazy days? Book your accommodation and children's and adult lessons now, and make the most of your stay with the ESF!