The 2020-2021 ski season in France has started with select high altitude slopes like the Grande Motte glacier at Tignes opening with new COVID-19 health protocols. Measures include mandatory face masks, social distancing, sanitizers, and regular cleaning of lifts. The Tignes Marketing Director, Stephie Dijkman, emphasizes testing before arrival to prevent outbreaks. The ski industry, which saw a 16% drop in lift ticket sales last season due to the pandemic, anticipates continued financial challenges with a 30% decrease in business expected. Restaurants, bars, and hotels are also adapting to virus restrictions, affecting France’s après-ski culture. The industry aims to avoid incidents like the super-spreader event in Austria's Ischgl resort and is relying on health protocols to protect its 18,000 workers. Les Deux Alpes is also open for glacier skiing, and other resorts are set to open in late November and early December.

Despite the cancellation of Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2020 in Barcelona due to COVID-19 concerns, many companies are still engaging in business activities in the city. Major tech companies like LG Electronics, Ericsson, Intel, Nokia, and Sony withdrew from the event, leading to its cancellation. However, Telemedia Magazine initiated #unofficialMWC2020, promoting smaller networking events. Jarvis Todd from Telemedia believes these events are more effective for industry connections. The GSMA, which organizes MWC, has been criticized for high costs and is expected to innovate for future events. Carbon Mobile and Huawei are among the companies conducting business and product launches in Barcelona, with Huawei unveiling its Mate X folding smartphone at a significant price point.

The Sitges Carnival near Barcelona, known for its unique and topical costumes, featured participants dressed in medical safety suits in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Attendees Ulrich Malsch and Yorlen Perez donned these costumes for humor amidst the crisis. The carnival, held from February 20-26, included various floats and costumes, including a representation of climate activist Greta Thunberg. The event, costing €235,000, is expected to attract over 300,000 visitors, providing an economic boost. The carnival is also a celebration of inclusivity, with a focus on respect and civility, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. Euronews correspondent Oliver Miocic reported on the event, highlighting the festive atmosphere that continues into the night with parties at local nightclubs.