Jeff DowLake Tahoe is one of my favourite destinations for outdoor adventure, foodie culture, and breathtaking scenery. North Lake Tahoe is also home to a grand assortment of festivals and celebrations and the following five events aren’t to be missed. From polar bear plunges to outdoor concerts, you’ll find hundreds of ways to stay warm in Tahoe this season. So pack up your sweaters and long socks, treat yourself to fabulous lakeside lodging, and make a date with family and friends.
Northern Lights at Incline Village and Crystal Bay
Jeff Dow
When: Nov. 30 - Dec. 31, 2017
Location: Incline Village & Crystal Vay
A returning event from the 1990s, the festival of lights showcases Incline Village and Crystal Bay with lighted wreaths on Tahoe Boulevard. Special activities include:
December: The Crystal Bay Club will host concerts throughout December.
Dec 9: The MESSIAH presented by TOCATTA Tahoe Symphony
Dec 9: Brunch with Santa
Dec 15: Diamond Peak opening celebration
Dec 16: Santa Crawl
Merry Days & Holly Nights at Squaw Valley
Village at Squaw Valley
When: Dec. 15-31, 2017
Location: 1750 Village East Rd, Olympic Valley
Visiting The Village at Squaw Valley is a must-do for any Tahoe vacation and there’s no better time to experience this magical venue than during the Merry Days & Holly Nights festivities.
Over a two week period, visitors will experience an “Olde World Christmas” with holiday parties, storefront decorations, illuminated ice sculptures and more. Horse-drawn sleighs offer a comfortable tour through the spectacle, while a torch light parade and 25-foot singing Christmas tree offer warmth during the holiday season. Be sure to bundle up for evening entertainment, ranging from the Reno Jazz Orchestra, Utah Ballroom Dance Company, and Truckee Dance Factory. For New Year’s Eve, round up the family for a fabulous night of fireworks.
Alpenglow Sports Mountain Festival: Winter Edition
Squaw Valley
North Lake Tahoe
When: Feb. 17-25, 2018
Location: 1901 Chamonix Place, Olympic Valley
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast in search of adrenaline adventure, Alpenglow Mountain Festival is a must-do event. The nine day festival celebrates winter sports and family activities, with events tailored to beginners and intermediate enthusiasts alike. This is a fabulous opportunity for discovering all North Lake Tahoe has to offer, from Nordic skiing to fat biking, from yoga to splitboarding. Whatever your level of athleticism, the Alpenglow Mountain Festival: Winter Edition offers a family-friendly adventure guaranteed to offer thrills and keep you toasty warm.
North Lake Tahoe Snowfest
Tahoe City & various venues
Dates: March 2-11, 2018
Have you ever experienced the thrill of a polar bear plunge? Get ready for your chance during North Lake Tahoe’s 37th Annual SnowFest. This ten day celebration combines outdoor adventure with family-friendly festivities ranging from a broomball tournament to snow sculpture parties, from parades and fireworks to live music concerts. For the more relaxed crowd, you’ll find an amazing assortment of festival dining along with arts and crafts to explore. Keep your hands warm with a hot toddy and toast the crowning of the new Snow Festival Queen.
WinterWonderGrass
Squaw Valley | Alpine Meadows
Dylan Langille
Dates: Apr. 6-8, 2018
Location: Squaw Valley Resort-Alpine Meadows (1960 Squaw Valley Rd, Olympic Valley)
You’ll want to start making plans to attend this popular event soon because WinterWonderGrass sells out fast! As one of North Lake Tahoe’s largest annual events, the Olympic Valley comes to life with celebrations of food and family activities, California and Nevada craft brewery tastings, and a world-class lineup of bluegrass and acoustic roots music on four stages.
For an elevated experience, ride the Aerial Tram above Lake Tahoe for a “Tram to Table” culinary celebration. This three day weekend combines music, brews, and mountains in an unbeatable setting.
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