Too many people approach winter like a bear: they hole up under as many blankets as possible and simply wait it out. Effective, but boring. Winter doesn’t merely have to be endured. There’s so many fun things to do and places to go. That’s why we thought we’d round up some of our favorite winter events happening all over the world this year.

Open the ski-season at Rise Ski Festival in France - December 10-17, 2022

Ring in the beginning of ski season at Rise Ski Festival, taking place on Europe’s largest skiiable glacier, Les Deux Alpes, in France. This week-long event includes plenty of snow time, yes, but also boasts a ton of musicians, parties, food and wine (this is France, after all). Seasoned shredders will recognize that the Alps are one of the most beautiful places to enjoy the sport. And if you’re a mountain novice, maybe this is your year to learn while taking in truly breathtaking views.

Enjoy some quirky Aspen traditions at Wintersköl - Jan 12-15, 2023

If you like beautiful mountains and fresh, cold air, but don’t need the excuse of skiing or snowboarding to enjoy it, then we definitely recommend Winterskol. Winterskol seeks to celebrate the unique culture of Aspen with events ranging from a soup-making competition among local restaurants to a snow sculpture park. It caps off with a torchlight parade and fireworks on Aspen Mountain. 

Watch movies and spot celebrities at Sundance - January 26-29, 2023

The 2023 Sundance Film Festival is taking place from Jan 19 - Jan 29, though what’s considered the Sundance “weekend” will be from the 26-29. Park City is one of the prettiest places to be in winter–sort of like being inside a little snow globe. But enjoying the scenery is just what you do in between movie screenings, panels, and parties. Where else will you get to watch future Oscar winning films, hear from creators and actors, and rub elbows with A-list stars. Try to find a place to stay with a hot tub so you can enjoy the cold winter nights!

Catch the X Games in Aspen, CO - Jan 27-29, 2023

X Games Aspen 2023 is free to attend. You read that right, it’s free to go and watch dozens of the world’s top winter athletes compete in skiing and snowboarding competitions. Whether you like watching slopestyle, slalom, jumps, or half-pipes, the X-games are the original source for some of our favorite winter Olympic sports. Aspen has a great nightlife scene as well, with free shuttle buses keeping you warm as you barhop.

Rock out at Rock the Pistes in France - March 12-18, 2023 

Rock the Pistes is an annual music festival featuring live performances from international pop and rock musicians right on the ski slopes of the French and Swiss Alps. In addition to the main performances, there are additional “apres-ski” concerts across the Portes du Soleil Resorts, in both France and Switzerland. Happening in mid-March, this festival is one of the best ways to enjoy winter while celebrating the return of spring. 

Party on and off the slopes at Snowboxx Ski Music Festival in France - March 18-25, 2023

If you want to keep the party going after Rock the Pistes, you can always hop over to Avoriaz, France for an extra week of skiing, raving, and exploring at Snowboxx Ski Music Festival. The resort where it’s held is walkable/skiable so you can focus on enjoying world-class slopes, french food, igloo parties, and amazing performances all night.

Rave at the top of the world at Tomorrowland Winter in France - March 18-24, 2023

Tomorrowland hosts a series of music festivals across Europe. Tomorrowland Winter, happening at the top of the Alpe d’Huez, promises an unforgettable experience surrounded by natural beauty. You’ll be able to dance to EDM, check out the otherworldly costumes and get to know your fellow festival-goers who promise to become tomorrow’s best friends. 

Laugh it off at Altitude Comedy Festival in Austria - April 3-7, 2023

At altitude, everyone seems funny, including the many up-and-coming comedians performing over the course of a week in Mayrhofen, Austria. The comedy shows at night are the perfect entertainment after a full day of skiing, snowboarding, or just exploring the Mayrhofen glacier that provides a unique setting for laughter and winter fun. 

Dance through Winter’s End at Snowbombing in Austria - April 10-15, 2023

Snowbombing is one of the original ski resort festivals, held at the Mayrhofen ski resort in Austria. You can alternately relax, party, ski, and enjoy time with your friends making memories while enjoying the classic Austrian ski culture (BYO Leiderhosen). 

Chill out at Zermatt Unplugged in Switzerland - April 11-15, 2023

Zermatt Unplugged is a great festival for music lovers who want to hear a variety of musicians while taking in the iconic view of the Matterhorn in Switzerland. These acoustic performances create an intimate atmosphere amongst the classic Swiss Chalets and rugged mountains. The great part of festivals like Zermatt Unplugged is that you get to experience both the festival and the culture around it. Don’t forget to eat some fondue!  Wherever you head this winter, we hope you’ll be able to bring your crew along with you! All of these events are great places to meet up with friends and make some new memories together.