2017 arrives with a bang in Alpe d'Huez
Huge crowds enjoy outdoor party at the leisure centre
2017 certainly arrived with a bang here in Alpe d’Huez with a huge outdoor party at the leisure centre in the middle of resort. Although this is an annual event, it was, in fact, the first time in ten years that I've managed to go. This year with nothing particularly planned we decided to head up and see what it was all about.
Having had a look at the set-up when we left the gym earlier in the evening, it became apparent that the event was bigger than we had imagined. A huge “orb” was sitting on stage at one end of the cordoned off car park and a very impressive sound system and light show was being prepped.
Arriving at around 10pm, there was already a good size crowd enjoying the banging tunes, dancers and light show. Duly encouraged by this we decided to quickly pop up in the main street for a couple of beers – Freeride bar was our chosen port of call. It was rammed, spirits were high and the owner, Fab, was in his usual good form.
At around 11.30pm we made the short walk back down to the leisure centre and by now a massive crowd was present and the music had been cranked right up. The place was absolutely jumping and a great time was being had by all – the crowd was really mixed – mums, dads, grandparents and children partied alongside young party goers in equal measure.
The 2 DJ’s in the orb were pumping out the tunes – and although a bit “euro pop” – the atmosphere was great. The excitement grew as midnight drew closer, you could genuinely feel the excitement in the air. As midnight approached a traditional countdown began 10-9-8…..in English strangely enough…and at midnight the party poppers and fireworks cracked into the night air and the party continued on with strobe light dancers and more banging tunes as we all celebrated the arrival of 2017.
I have to genuinely say that I was happily surprised by the whole event – it was fantastic and if you are planning to be in resort on NYE2018 they get yourself up to this fantastic free event in the middle of town. Check out the video to see for yourself...
