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October in Chamonix: Science, Sports & a Spooky Twist

As summer’s bustle fades, October transforms Chamonix into a calmer, colourful haven. Autumn brings golden forests, crisp mountain air, and a slower rhythm in the valley — but the month is full of surprises: cultural festivals, science events, sports, French courses, and Halloween fun.

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What’s on & special events

Alpine French School — New courses starting soon!

Our teachers at Alpine French School are taking a break over the holidays but why not think about joining one of our courses starting on the 17th November?

Fête de la Science
3–11 October 2025

A nationwide festival, “La montagne comme terrain d’intelligences”, explores how mountains inspire both scientific and naturalist understanding:

Talks & conferences: “Joseph Vallot, un héritage vivant” (4 October, 20h30 – 22h30, Espace Michel Croz 2 (EMC2)).
Apéro Science: informal evening on mountain research (7 October, 18h – 20h, Observatoire du Mont-Blanc).
Interactive workshops: La Fresque de la Montagne (9 October, 28h – 20h30, Observatoire du Mont-Blanc) on climate change in the Alps.
Family-friendly sessions: soil ecology and hidden ecosystems (11 October).
Many events are free; some require prior reservation. (chamonix.net)

Chirv’Athlon 2025
Sunday, October 5 in Servoz

The Chirv’Athlon is a friendly relay race combining running, road cycling, and mountain biking:

Adult race: 6.4 km run, 10.3 km road cycling, 10.5 km mountain biking.
Kids race: 200 m run plus 1.3 km mountain biking loop.
The event supports Pink October, donating part of registration fees to a related association. (chamonix.net)

Seasonal fairs & local festivals

Foire aux Moutons (Sheep Fair) in Servoz 13th October: livestock judging, cider, music, and crafts.
Grand Prix Golf Tournament at Les Praz the 3rd October: play with incredible alpine views.
Chamonix Photo Festival: exhibitions, talks, and screenings across the valley 31st October.

Halloween in Chamonix

Chamonix embraces Halloween with family and adult-friendly activities:

RockyPop Chamonix–Les Houches: pumpkin painting, costume contests, vampire hunts, face painting, themed menus.
Alpina Eclectic Hôtel: cookie workshops and candy hunts (31 October, early evening).
Bars, restaurants, and hotels across Chamonix centre host themed parties, special menus, and costume nights.

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Things to do in October

Hiking & walking

Trails in the Aiguilles Rouges glow with autumn colours.
Lifts like Flégère (open during school breaks) give access to Lac Blanc and Brévent trails.
Wildlife tracking and forest walks reveal seasonal changes.

Outdoor adventure

Paragliding with crisp autumn visibility.
Rock climbing & via ferrata (conditions permitting).
Guided glacier treks, if weather allows.
Spa & wellness escapes, like QC Terme, to balance adventure with relaxation.

Scenic journeys & local exploration

Aiguille du Midi cable car often operates until early November.
Mont Blanc Express train rides through autumn forests.
Villages like Servoz, Argentière, and Les Houches offer a quieter, authentic alpine experience.

Indoors & culture

Museums and galleries host autumn programming.
Workshops and activities tied to Fête de la Science or Toussaint holidays.
Cosy cafés and alpine restaurants feature seasonal menus.

Tips

Check lift and cable car schedules — many close or reduce hours in October.
Bring layers and waterproofs — weather changes quickly.
Ask locally about high-altitude hikes — snow may appear early.
For Halloween and science events, book early if reservations are required.

October in Chamonix offers the perfect balance of calm and activity. With golden autumn landscapes, cultural and sporting events, learning opportunities, and a touch of Halloween fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re hiking the trails, exploring the valley’s villages, joining a festival, or simply soaking in the mountain air, October is a magical time to experience Chamonix at its most colourful and authentic.

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