As the holiday season approaches, Tahoe transforms into a winter wonderland, where pine trees shimmer under fresh snowfall, and holiday lights add a warm, magical glow to the frosty landscape. Tahoe’s festive spirit reaches new heights with the annual tree lighting ceremonies scattered across the region. Whether you're a local or a visitor, celebrating the season in the snow adds a cozy, enchanted feel that you won't find anywhere else. Here's a roundup of Tahoe’s must-visit tree lighting ceremonies and why celebrating the season in the snow is so unforgettable.
Downtown Truckee Holiday Festival and Bud Fish Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: November 22, 4:15pm - 6pm
Where: Downtown Truckee
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Kick off the season in historic downtown Truckee with the annual Bud Fish Tree Lighting Ceremony. This event captures the essence of small-town holiday cheer, featuring twinkling lights, festive music, and the warmth of a close-knit community coming together. The Truckee festival is a tradition that locals cherish, and for visitors, it offers a chance to immerse themselves in the spirit of a classic mountain Christmas.
Everline Resort Grand Tree Lighting Ceremony & Fireworks
When: November 29, 6:45 PM
Where: Resort & Ice Rink
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If you’re looking for a grand holiday celebration, the Everline Resort’s tree lighting ceremony and fireworks display deliver just that. Set against the snowy backdrop of the mountains, this celebration features a spectacular light show, the grand lighting of the resort’s holiday tree, and a dazzling fireworks finale. With festive activities all day and the crisp winter air carrying the scent of pine and holiday spices, this is a must-see event for anyone in Tahoe for the holidays.
Tahoe Donner Light Up the Night
When: November 30, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Where: The Lodge Restaurant & Pub
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For a more intimate celebration, Tahoe Donner’s Light Up the Night event at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub offers a cozy holiday gathering. Enjoy live music, a stunning tree lighting, and seasonal cheer with friends and family. This event, nestled in the heart of the snowy Tahoe Donner community, is perfect for those who want to celebrate in a close-knit environment where warmth and holiday joy fill the air.
Welcome to Winter – The Village at Palisades Tahoe
When: November 30, 4:45pm
Where: The Village at Palisades Tahoe
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Celebrate the official start of winter in the lively Village at Palisades Tahoe. This event is packed with holiday-themed activities for all ages, including music, crafts, and photo ops with Santa. The tree lighting at 4:45pm is the highlight, drawing everyone together for a festive and heartwarming celebration. It’s the perfect way to welcome winter in one of Lake Tahoe’s most beloved villages, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and alpine cheer.
Holiday Tree Lighting at Kings Beach
When: December 6, 2024, 5pm - 7pm
Where: North Tahoe Event Center, Kings Beach
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Enjoy live music, free holiday crafts, and hot cocoa as the community gathers in Kings Beach for a tree lighting ceremony with homemade soup and free holiday treats. Register early if you want to capture photos with Santa and enjoy the holiday spirit in a festive, lakeside setting.
Northstar California Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: December 8, 5:30pm
Where: Village Ice Rink
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Celebrate the holiday season in the picturesque Village at Northstar, where the tree lighting ceremony at the Village Ice Rink brings the community together. With the twinkling lights reflecting off the ice and the warmth of festive cheer all around, this event is a quintessential holiday experience. Bundle up, enjoy hot cocoa, and soak in the magic of the season as Northstar ushers in the holidays with style and grace.
Experience Holiday Enchantment
There’s something truly magical about Tahoe’s snowy winter. The holiday lights glisten on icy branches, and the soft crunch of snow underfoot creates a storybook-like atmosphere. Tahoe’s natural beauty is enhanced by the festive lights, making it feel as though you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland. Plus, what’s better than sipping hot cocoa, bundled up in warm layers, while watching the lights twinkle on a grand holiday tree? The magic is magnified when you’re surrounded by snow-covered peaks and charming mountain towns, creating a cozy holiday vibe that’s worth experiencing.
This holiday season, immerse yourself in the joy and wonder of a Tahoe winter. Let us help you make the season magical by finding the perfect place to stay—or by helping you call this winter wonderland home.