An epic winter in Tignes is set to go out with bang next week as the high altitude French resort plays host to its first Banked Slalom event, while on the same day the legendary Dragon Lodge celebrates 20 years in the rider hostel game.

The Tignes Banked Slalom (Tuesday 24th April) is being organised by the TDC Snowboarding Crew, with the aim of raising awareness for climate change in partnership with Protect Our Winters. 2017-18 has been a season to remember in the Espace Killy, with the most snow in over 30 years, so there should be plenty left for the shapers to create a banging course. Expect a friendly, open event that builds on the recent berm-shredding renaissance.

When the chequered flag goes down then the party will move on to the Loop Bar in Le Lac, where the Dragon Lodge will host its milestone birthday bash. “Little did we think when we opened the first little lodge in December 1997 that we’d still be shredding on 20 years later,” says DL founder John Basset. “Back then we just wanted to set up the kind of place we, as snowboarders, wanted to stay for a week in the mountains. Now we’re celebrating just that with our friends and family.”

“2017-18 has been a season to remember in the Espace Killy, with the most snow in over 30 years”

With Dragon Eyewear and Dalikfodda in support – and stoner rock outfit Steak on stage – it promises to be heavy night and the perfect way to wrap up both the day, and the winter.