European Snow Pride 2024: A Commitment to LGBTQ+ Issues

Dec. 19 2023

by Lachlan

Get ready for an unforgettable journey as the enchanting ski resort town of Tignes, France, transforms into a winter wonderland for European Snow Pride 2024, happening from March 16 to 23! This isn't just a ski event; it's a celebration of love, diversity, and unity, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Alps.

Over the years, European Snow Pride has quickly become one of the globe’s most popular gay ski weeks, and it's not only thanks to its great location in Tignes and its stellar line-up of entertainment. The true warmth of this event lies in its commitment to making a difference for our community.

For many years now, European Snow Pride has welcomed the non-profit organization, AIDES, to the beautiful slopes of Tignes in order to provide education, prevention messages, and on-site screening tests for HIV. For the 2024 edition, European Snow Pride will be deepening its commitment to change by making a donation to AIDES as a thanks for their continued work with the LGBTQ+ community. 

Here's an exciting chance to make a real difference at European Snow Pride too! Each guest is invited to be a part of something truly special – by donating just 10€, you're not only contributing to a cause close to our hearts but also sparking an incredible chain reaction. Because for every 10€ you donate, European Snow Pride will match it, euro for euro!

This is more than just a donation; it's a powerful statement of solidarity. Your contribution will empower AIDES in its noble mission to provide essential services and tools to those most in need. Together, we can help maintain sexual health and wellness in communities that need it the most, so are you convinced?

In addition to this great initiative, European Snow Pride continues to attract gay ski enthusiasts each year thanks to its location in beautiful Tignes - a resort town that has long been regarded as an LGBTQ+ haven. Nestled in the French Alps, Tignes offers scenic interconnected slopes, great accommodation, and an LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere to make for the perfect gay ski week experience. 

Over time, Tignes has evolved into much more than a ski destination. It's a symbol of commitment to LGBTQ+ issues, a place where everyone, regardless of who they love, can feel the warmth of a community that embraces them wholeheartedly. It's where the spirit of togetherness transcends beyond the ski trails, creating an environment that not only attracts visitors from around the globe but also nurtures a sense of belonging and pride.

But Tignes’ commitment to LGBTQ+ issues goes far further back than 2024. Rewind to January 2013, a pivotal chapter in Tignes' history. As France buzzed with discussions on gay marriage, Tignes boldly took a stand, not just in words but in a remarkable, heartfelt gesture. The resort didn't just support the idea of same-sex marriage; it embraced it wholeheartedly. In a move of solidarity and celebration, Tignes invited France's first legally married same-sex couple to the resort, offering them a magical place to honor their union amidst the enchanting snow and breathtaking Alpine vistas.

In that same year of change and progress, the resort also took a powerful stand against homophobia in sports. By signing the charter against homophobia, Tignes sent a resounding message: its slopes are a place of safety, respect, and inclusivity. This wasn't just about creating an LGBTQ+ friendly skiing destination; it was about forging a space where everyone could feel the freedom and joy of sports without fear or prejudice.

Two years later, Tignes made history by being the first ski resort to host a gay pride during the course of European Snow Pride 2015. Since then, the resort town has continued to host a beautiful Pride on the slopes each year, organized by the non-profit organization Tignes-Pride. This is always the first Pride of the year to kick off in the Northern Hemisphere, setting the tone for a fabulous season to come! 

Adding to the charm and significance of this event, the Mayor of Tignes leads the procession, a symbol of the town's unwavering support and commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. This is more than just a ceremonial gesture; it's a powerful statement that in Tignes, love and pride are not just welcomed but celebrated with open arms and open hearts. 

“If it were still necessary, we want to let you know that you are welcome in Tignes and that you are AT HOME” - Serge Revial, Mayor of Tignes

Global recognition of Tignes as a gay-friendly winter sports destination was also reflected in 2017, when the resort was invited by Montreal Pride to participate in the Canada Pride parade. This was the first instalment of Canada Pride, and it was opened by the Prime Minister of Canada, Mr Justin Trudeau and the Mayor of Montreal with an audience of more than 300,000 people. Their presence underscored the importance of such events in promoting LGBTQ+ rights and visibility on a global scale. Tignes, standing proud among the participants, was not just representing a ski resort but symbolizing a global movement of inclusivity in winter sports - an issue that remains pertinent today. 

In 2019, during a jubilant Tignes Pride, the town was bestowed with the prestigious “Friendly” label, a testament to its dedicated efforts towards fostering an inclusive community. This recognition was more than just a title; it was a unanimous affirmation by the local city council, celebrating Tignes' proactive and welcoming approach to diversity. It was a moment of triumph, a recognition of the town's ongoing commitment to creating a space where everyone can feel valued and embraced.

But the story doesn't end there. In the same year, Tignes, in partnership with European Snow Pride, took to the global stage at the legendary WorldPride in New York, an event that drew over 3 million people! Imagine the streets of New York, pulsating with energy, as Tignes and European Snow Pride marched proudly for nearly 10 kilometers along the iconic 5th and 7th avenues. The highlight? A colossal 450-meter long rainbow flag, undulating like a river of colors, symbolizing their solidarity and support for the LGBTQ+ community. 

As the anticipation for European Snow Pride 2024 mounts, let's not forget the star of the show - the enchanting resort town of Tignes. Thanks to its ongoing commitment to the LGBTQ+ community, it has become synonymous with inclusivity, acceptance, and joy on the slopes. 

So, are you ready to join us for an alpine adventure like no other? Pack your ski gear, bring your brightest smiles, and let's make tracks in the snow that weave tales of friendship, laughter, and pride. European Snow Pride 2024 in Tignes promises to be a journey into a world where the mountains echo with the joy of togetherness, so we can't wait to see you there! 

For full details on the jam-packed schedule of European Snow Pride 2024, check out our dedicated program. 

Image credits: ©Franck Weens, ©Mathieu Faluomi, ©Andrew Grey, ©Andrea Robert Lezak