Tahoe’s holiday season offers something magical for everyone. From skiing with Santa to cozy Christmas dinners and lively New Year’s Eve celebrations, here’s your guide to planning the perfect holiday adventure.
Ski with Santa
Hit the slopes this holiday season and ski alongside Santa in Lake Tahoe! From festive photo ops to magical moments on the mountain, these family-friendly events bring holiday cheer to your winter adventures.
Santa’s Schedule at Palisades Tahoe
When: December 16-24
Santa will be making appearances around Palisades Tahoe throughout December. Don’t miss your chance to snap a photo with him on the slopes!
Santa & Penguin Pete Visit Diamond Peak
When: December 25
Spend Christmas Day skiing with Santa and his adorable sidekick, Penguin Pete, at Diamond Peak. A family favorite!
Ski with Santa at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort
When: December 25 at 11:30am
Spend Christmas afternoon with Santa as he hits the slopes at Tahoe Donner. The resort opens at 11:30am, so bring the family for a fun-filled, festive skiing experience.
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When: December 25 at 11:30am
Spend Christmas afternoon with Santa as he hits the slopes at Tahoe Donner. The resort opens at 11:30am, so bring the family for a fun-filled, festive skiing experience.
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Santa Ski Day at Mt. Rose
When: December 15
It's not quite skiing with Santa, but this ski day sure is a spectacle. Guests who dress as Santa receive discounted ski tickets (and just a hat won't count). Santas meet at 10:30am for a collective run and viewers will catch a glimpse of a sea of Santas descending the mountain - a jolly and memorable way to hit the slopes.
Christmas Festivities
Celebrate Christmas in Lake Tahoe with cozy traditions and festive charm. From twinkling lights to carolers and special holiday dinners, Tahoe transforms into a winter wonderland perfect for creating unforgettable memories.
Christmas Eve Dinner at Palisades Tahoe
When: December 24
Celebrate Christmas Eve with an elegant dinner featuring a festive menu and cozy ambiance at Palisades Tahoe.
Great Basin Carolers in the Village at Palisades
When: December 20-24 from 4pm-7pm
Let the Great Basin Carolers serenade you with classic holiday tunes as you stroll through the Village.
Winter Wonders at Northstar California
When: December 20-21 from 5pm-9pm
Experience the magic of Winter Wonders at Northstar! Enjoy festive activities on December 20th and 21st, including free Santa photos on a festive red chairlift, candy cane giveaways, face painting, and hot chocolate. From December 20 - January 5, catch daily live music performances on the Village stage to add some rhythm to your holiday celebrations.
Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade at Granlibakken
When: December 24 at 5pm
Celebrate Christmas Eve with a magical torchlight parade at Granlibakken’s historic ski hill. Watch as skiers light up the slopes with glowing torches under the stars. Santa and his elves will make a special entrance on a vintage Tucker Sno Cat, handing out gifts to children. Complimentary cookies, winter beverages, and a cozy fireplace in the Ski Hut add to the festive atmosphere.
New Year’s Celebrations
Welcome the new year in style with Tahoe’s exciting celebrations! Enjoy fireworks, live music, and family-friendly festivities, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks at Mt. Rose
When: December 31
Welcome 2025 with a spectacular fireworks display, music, and festivities at Mt. Rose.
New Year's Eve Family Celebration at Palisades Tahoe
When: December 31 at 5pm
Toast to the possibilities of the upcoming year surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains with a fun-filled evening of celebrations including the annual torchlight parade, fireworks, live music, the east coast ball drop, and more!
Torchlight Parade at Granlibakken
When: December 31
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with this festive torchlight parade and dining experience at Granlibakken.
New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dance Party at Granlibakken
When: December 31
Enjoy a lively evening of gourmet dining, dancing, and live entertainment as you ring in the new year in style.
Rock n’ Roll New Year’s Eve Party at Tahoe Donner Alder Creek Adventure Center
When: December 31 from 6pm-9pm
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with live rock n’ roll, a family-friendly atmosphere, and festive food and drinks. Kids can enjoy s’mores while you watch the live-streamed Times Square countdown. The countdown will take place at 9pm (midnight EST) for an early celebration.
When: December 31 from 6pm-9pm
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with live rock n’ roll, a family-friendly atmosphere, and festive food and drinks. Kids can enjoy s’mores while you watch the live-streamed Times Square countdown. The countdown will take place at 9pm (midnight EST) for an early celebration.
New Year’s Eve Celebration at Northstar California with Pyrotechnic Drone Show
When: December 31
Ring in the New Year at Northstar with a family-friendly celebration in the Village. Enjoy live music, festive activities, and a special pyrotechnic drone show to welcome 2025 in spectacular style.
Experience the magic of the holidays in Lake Tahoe, where festive events and snowy adventures create unforgettable memories for the whole family. From skiing with Santa to cozy Christmas celebrations and lively New Year’s Eve parties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make your holiday getaway truly special by staying in one of our luxury vacation rentals—perfectly located for accessing all the seasonal fun. Book your stay today and make this holiday season one to remember!