Christmas In Megeve

Christmas is a wonderful time to visit Megeve!

On 7th December the Megevans celebrate the lighting of the Christmas tree.   The only time we have been there for the ceremony it was cold and an awful lot of people had to say something but there was a saxophonist and the bars are all open so it is good fun.  The huge Christmas tree dominates the medieval village square and is brilliantly lit with different coloured lights changing through the evening.  Some years it is covered in Swarovski crystals.  However they decorate it, it is spectacular.

On 23rd and 24th the ice sculptor prepares the nativity scene.  Years ago I remember watching the nativity play when all the children in Megeve must have had a part not to mention the real life ass and oxen.  It was very entertaining.  Now it's got rather more sophisticated but still very beautiful.  Father Christmas visits his grotto on the evening of 24th Dec and there is vin chaud in the village square to keep the grown ups warm!

On Christmas day there is a parade when everyone can wave goodbye to Father Christmas and his elves.   The Megeve website makes no mention of reindeer so Rudolph fans may be in for a disappointment!

Finally on New Year's Eve the ESF ski instructors do their usual torch light descent and parade through the town.  Again, they roll out the vin chaud in the square so everyone gets very jolly.  It is worth going down to the square at midnight.  Everyone turns up with bottles of champagne and you'll find yourself kissing some very attractive (if you play your cards right) strangers.  And then, back to the party.

Sadly, Stanford Skiing are fully booked for Christmas and New Year but the Christmas tree stays up all season and the town sparkles with festive lights so come for some belated Christmas cheer in January - short ski breaks or full weeks in catered chalets, self-catered apartments or hotels.  Or book early for next year!