French environmental groups oppose Tomorrowland Winter
Two French environmental organisations have filed a complaint against the Tomorrowland Winter music festival. Mountain Wilderness France reported the news on social media. The festival’s organisers say they have not yet received any formal notification of the complaint.
The two organisations - France Nature Environnement Isère and Mountain Wilderness - are mainly concerned about what they describe as “illegal noise pollution”, which they say was clearly established during the previous edition of the festival. Tomorrowland Winter is scheduled to open on 21 March 2026 in Alpe d’Huez.
“Behind the glitter lies a nuisance for local residents,” wrote Mountain Wilderness. "The mountain environment is reduced to a backdrop for a mega-event that has nothing to do with culture and shows little regard for environmental issues."
According to the organisations, the health and tranquillity of the local population have been affected by the noise levels at Tomorrowland Winter, which was attended by more than 22,000 people. As local authorities have allegedly failed to address their concerns, the organisations have now referred the matter to the public prosecutor’s office in Grenoble.
The environmental groups also criticise the large number of festivalgoers travelling by air. "In the Oisans region, the disappearance of the Sarenne glacier was commemorated only last summer," they note. They also argue that the expansion of a local football pitch is unlawful and has been financed with public funds.
We work closely with the French authorities
Although Tomorrowland says it is not yet aware of the precise content of the complaint, the organisation stresses that it operates strictly within the applicable legal framework. “We work closely with the French authorities,” said spokesperson Debby Wilmsen. "We also remain open to dialogue with local residents who may experience disruption. Where necessary, we conduct additional studies and look for solutions together.”
Wilmsen further emphasised that Tomorrowland Winter is a daytime festival. "The stages close at midnight and no later than 1:30 a.m. in the village during the festival. The mountain stages close at 4:30 p.m.”
Regarding wildlife, Tomorrowland states that the music is inaudible at a distance of 200 metres. "The festival takes place at a time when most animals are hibernating. It is held in the centre of the village, an area that is rarely frequented by wildlife.”
Tomorrowland is one of the world's most famous music festivals, having received numerous accolades, including being named 'Best Musical Event of the Year' five times in a row at the International Dance Music Awards. Since 2019, the festival has organised a winter edition, Tomorrowland Winter, in the French ski resort of Alpe d’Huez.
The brand’s success has also led to several spin-off events. Between 2013 and 2015, the concept was exported to the United States, near Atlanta, under the name TomorrowWorld. In 2015, a separate festival called Tomorrowland Brasil was launched in Brazil.
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