North Lake Tahoe is the ultimate winter wonderland during the holidays, with festive events, twinkling lights, and snowy adventures. Whether you’re looking to celebrate with your family, hit the slopes with Santa, or enjoy a cozy Christmas dinner, this region offers unforgettable experiences for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!
Make this year magical by booking your North Lake Tahoe vacation home with Tahoe Signature Properties and experience these special events and activities happening throughout North Lake Tahoe!
Northern Lights Festival
Where: Incline Village
When: Now through December 25, 2024
Celebrate the season all month long at the Northern Lights Festival in Incline Village. Stroll through this charming mountain town as it glows with festive light displays, transforming homes, businesses, and Tahoe Boulevard into a holiday dreamscape. Perfect for a leisurely evening walk or drive with loved ones.
Northstar Winter Wonders
When: December 20, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Where: The Village at Northstar
Experience the joy of the holidays at Northstar’s Winter Wonders! From ice skating and festive dining to live performances on the Village stage, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss Santa’s visit on December 20th and 21st (5 PM – 9 PM) where families can capture free photos on Santa’s festive red chairlift.
Santa and Penguin Pete at Diamond Peak
When: December 24, 2024 (10 AM – 12 PM)
Where: Diamond Peak Ski Resort
Celebrate Christmas Eve on the slopes with Santa and his buddy, Penguin Pete! They’ll be handing out treats, spreading holiday cheer, and taking selfies with guests. Look for them around the Base Area and on the ski runs.
Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade
When: December 24, 2024
Where: Granlibakken Tahoe
Celebrate an unforgettable Christmas Eve under the stars at Granlibakken’s historic ski hill. Watch as skiers and snowboarders light up the hill with torches, followed by Santa’s grand arrival on a vintage Tucker Sno-Cat. Kids will receive gifts, and complimentary cookies and winter beverages will be served. Free to attend and perfect for families!
Christmas in Truckee
When: December 24, 2024 (3 PM & 5 PM)
Where: Downtown Truckee
Bring the whole family to Tahoe Forest Church’s annual “Christmas in Truckee” celebration. This free community event features kid-friendly activities, live music, giveaways, and a candlelit retelling of the Christmas story.
Ski with Santa on Christmas Day
When: December 25, 2024 (Starts at 11:30 AM)
Where: Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort
Spend Christmas Day hitting the slopes with Santa himself at Tahoe Donner Ski Resort! Perfect for skiers of all ages, Santa will be spreading holiday cheer and joining guests for some holly jolly fun on the mountain.
Handel’s Messiah and Holiday Favorites
When: December 20, 2024
Where: Truckee (Various Locations)
Enjoy a stunning performance of Handel’s Messiah and other beloved holiday classics, presented by the TOCCATA Tahoe Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. This special evening is a wonderful way to celebrate the season with live music and renowned vocalists!
Great Basin Carolers at Palisades Tahoe
When: December 20–24, 2024 (4 PM – 7 PM)
Where: The Village at Palisades Tahoe
Let the enchanting voices of the Great Basin Carolers transport you into the holiday spirit. Performing in festive Victorian attire, the carolers will fill The Village at Palisades Tahoe with classic holiday melodies.
Holiday Feasts and Christmas Dinners
E
njoy a homestyle Christmas dinner with family and friends at one of North Lake Tahoe’s premier venues.
Granlibakken Tahoe: Feast on a handcrafted buffet surrounded by loved ones. Call 530-583-4242 for reservations.
Everline Resort & Spa: Indulge in a holiday banquet and buffet at Cascades Restaurant or Six Peaks Grille. Reserve your spot by calling 530-412-7034.
Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Festive Program
When: December 22, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Where: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort
From edible crafts and cookie decorating to story time with Mrs. Claus, the Hyatt Regency comes alive with holiday activities for all ages. Adults can enjoy unique events like mixology classes, polar plunges, and holiday-themed fitness challenges.
Holiday Religious Services
Celebrate the true spirit of Christmas at one of North Lake Tahoe’s many churches offering Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services:
St. Francis of Assisi Church (Incline Village) – Christmas Eve Vigil, bilingual masses.
Cornerstone Community Church (Incline Village) – Christmas Eve services.
New Life Church (Incline Village) – Candlelight service on Christmas Eve.
St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church (Incline Village) – Christmas Eve services.
Olympic Valley Chapel (Olympic Valley) – Christmas Eve nativity pageant and candlelight service.
Corpus Christi Catholic Church (Tahoe City) – Christmas Eve vigils and Christmas Day masses.
Christ the King Lutheran Church (Tahoe City) – Christmas Eve services.
First Baptist Church (Tahoe City) – Christmas Eve services.
Sierra Bible Church (Truckee) – Christmas Eve candlelight services.
Truckee Lutheran Presbyterian Church (Truckee) – Family and candlelight Christmas Eve services.
North Tahoe Hebrew Congregation (Tahoe Vista) – Hanukkah celebrations.
Please note: visitors should check church websites or call ahead for updated service times and details.
Stay in North Lake Tahoe This Christmas
Celebrate the holidays in comfort and style with Tahoe Signature Properties! Our vacation homes provide the perfect base for your Christmas getaway, with features like cozy fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens for holiday feasts, and hot tubs to unwind after a day of festive fun. Whether you’re spending the holidays with family, friends, or your significant other, we’ll help you make this season truly magical.
Ready to book your Christmas escape? Explore our handpicked North Lake Tahoe vacation rentals and make your holiday one to remember!
