Just over 40 years ago in Aspen ski resort a local by the name of Jon Busch found himself in a spot of après-ski bother for dancing with another man (heavens’ forbid!). Although known as a liberal place, it seems this was a step too far for some of the Aspen clientele. John, together with other gay locals and tourists decided to fight back and meet in Aspen the same week every year……..And so began the first official Gay ski week in the winter sports calendar. Fortunately the world has turned and people are far more accepting welcoming these days – even in the more conservative isolated valleys of the Alps.

Gay ski weeks often include pre-booked packages with entry tickets and the cynical may view this purely as a money making operation but the fact is anyone can book a hotel, apartment, or chalet in a ski resort during gay ski weeks and find themselves in a festival atmosphere with organised events, shows, obligatory drag queens, concerts and al fresco dining. Music, dance, laughter, and fun cut through the Alpine sunshine and moonlight skies. Consider also that these weeks can be enjoyed by all and not just those of the LGBT community. Indeed, many fun loving heterosexuals choose these weeks to ski as they are so enjoyable.

Here’s our guide to a few events to look forward to in the forthcoming 2018/2019 ski season;

Aspen, Colorado. Aspen Gay ski week.

Started in 1977, this is the oldest official gay ski week.

12th-20th January 2019.

http://gayskiweek.com/

Arosa, Switzerland. Arosa Gay ski week.

Conceived in 2005, this event offers a full programme of events including a classical music concert

19th-26th January 2019.

https://www.arosa-gayskiweek.com/

Whistler, Canada. Whistler pride & ski festival.

Famed for its amazing closing party this is one not to be missed.

20th-27th January 2019.

http://gaywhistler.com/

Lenzerheide, Switzerland. Swing festival.

Apres ski, nightclubs, ski courses, and fondue parties – this has something for everyone

10th-17th March 2019.

https://gayski.ch/en/

Tignes. European Snow Pride.

With previous guest performances from Boney M and Black box this is an event that swings especially when mixed with the notorious pool party at the Lagoon.

16th-23rd March 2019.

https://www.europeansnowpride.com/

Les Arcs 1950 & Les Arcs 2000. European gay ski week.

Billed as “Europe’s number 1 gay ski week” – cabarets, parties, and fun! This year’s festival promises to be the best ever.  See our ski offer for this week below*

23rd-30th March 2019.

https://www.europeangayskiweek.com/

*Gay ski week exclusive offer – save £220.00 pp.

Hotel Arcs Extreme, Les Arcs 2000.

  • Sunday 24th March – 7 nights all inclusive
  • Price includes:
  • Flights & transfers
  • En-suite club rooms
  • Tips and taxes
  • Area lift pass
  • Ski/board tuition and guiding (beginners to off-piste)
  • Award winning full board (breakfast, lunches, afternoon tea, evening meals)
  • Drinks throughout your stay (beers, wines, cocktails, spirit, mixers, soft drinks)
  • Non-skiers activities

Double occupancy rooms £1199.00 pp

Single occupancy rooms £1299.00 pp (special rate)