When the snow falls across the Sierra, North Lake Tahoe transforms into a playground of winter adventure and alpine charm! From Thanksgiving feasts and film festivals to fireworks and snowshoe tours, the season is packed with events that bring visitors and locals together in celebration of Tahoe’s legendary winter spirit. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a family ski trip, or a festive escape, there’s something happening every week from November through February!
Make your stay even more memorable by booking a cozy mountain home with Tahoe Signature Properties, your home base for everything winter in North Lake Tahoe.
Quick Look: Top Winter Events in North Lake Tahoe
North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST | February 25th–March 8th, 2026
Tahoe’s signature winter festival returns for its 44th year, celebrating community, snow, and local spirit! Enjoy more than 50 events from the Gar Woods Kick-Off Party and fireworks over the lake to the Tahoe City Street Faire and the Great Ski Race at Tahoe XC! It’s a can’t-miss Tahoe tradition that captures everything people love about winter in the mountains.
Tahoe Film Fest | December 4th–7th, 2025
Settle in for a weekend of independent films and cultural storytelling as Tahoe Film Fest lights up local theaters. The event brings together filmmakers, artists, and movie lovers for screenings that celebrate the environment, adventure, and creativity.
Tahoe Live | December 12th–14th, 2025
This high-energy music and mountain lifestyle festival takes over The Village at Palisades Tahoe. Expect incredible performances, light shows, and après-ski vibes that make Tahoe Live one of the most exciting winter weekends of the year.
Tahoe Nutcracker | December 19th–21st, 2025
A beloved local tradition, this community ballet brings the classic story to life at the North Tahoe High School Theater. Perfect for families and anyone looking to add a touch of holiday magic to their trip.
Welcome to Winter at Palisades Tahoe | November 29th, 2025
Ring in the season with live music, festive cheer, and early winter excitement at this beloved annual kickoff event. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the first snowfall and the start of ski season.
Disco Tubing at Palisades Tahoe | December–February
Glowing lights, upbeat music, and laughter echo across the snow at this family favorite event. Running most weekends through February, Disco Tubing turns an evening of snow play into a full Tahoe experience.
Guided Snowshoe Tours | November–February
Join Tahoe Adventure Company for daytime, sunset, or full moon snowshoe tours that explore Tahoe’s serene winter landscapes. For something extra special, try the Valentine’s Snowshoe with Champagne and Dessert on February 14th.
With so many exciting events, you’ll want the perfect home base. Browse our North Lake Tahoe vacation rentals for a stress-free and comfortable stay!
November 2025 Highlights
November marks the start of Tahoe’s winter season, with cool nights, fresh snow, and community celebrations! It’s the perfect time to ease into the holidays with food, wine, and early-snow adventures.
Passport to Dining | North Tahoe Event Center | November 6th, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
A beloved local food and wine event featuring tastings from regional restaurants, breweries, and distilleries! Register here!
Fall Classic Food & Wine Pop-Up | The Chateau at Incline Village | November 7th, 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
A one-night culinary experience celebrating mountain cuisine and fine wines.
Annual Cross-Country & Backcountry Ski Swap | Tahoe XC | November 8th, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Find new and used gear for the coming season and connect with local outdoor enthusiasts.
Welcome to Winter | Palisades Tahoe | November 29th, 12:30 pm to 5:00 pm
Ring in the new season with live music, winter-themed activities, and family fun at this annual kickoff celebration.
Tahoe Adventure Company Snowshoe Tours | Multiple dates throughout November
Join Full Moon and Daytime Snowshoe Adventures for a guided walk through Tahoe’s alpine forests and meadows.
Thanksgiving Dinners:
Community Thanksgiving at North Tahoe Event Center
5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Kings Beach
A warm, community-style gathering featuring a traditional feast and local hospitality.
Thanksgiving Dinner at Palisades Tahoe
2:30 pm to 9:00 pm, Olympic Valley
Enjoy a gourmet mountain-inspired menu with stunning views of the slopes.
A Thanksgiving Dinner at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
4:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Northstar
An elegant holiday buffet and fine-dining experience in a luxurious alpine setting.
Thanksgiving Buffet Dinner at Granlibakken Tahoe
4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Tahoe City
A family-friendly feast filled with classic dishes and Tahoe charm.
Friendsgiving at Tahoe National Brewing Co.
2:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Kings Beach
Celebrate with friends over craft brews, hearty fare, and a festive local crowd.
December 2025 Highlights
December sparkles with holiday spirit as Tahoe’s ski resorts and towns come alive with festivals, performances, and festive gatherings.
Tahoe Film Fest | multiple theaters | December 4th–7th
Four days of independent films that highlight environmental awareness, adventure, and culture.
Tahoe Live | The Village at Palisades Tahoe | December 12th–14th
An energetic mountain music festival featuring light shows, top DJs, and après-ski vibes.
The Tahoe Nutcracker | North Tahoe High School Theater | December 19th–21st
A community performance that brings the classic ballet to life in true Tahoe style.
Great Basin Carolers | Palisades Tahoe | December 20th–24th
Enjoy timeless carols and festive tunes performed throughout the resort village.
Disco Tubing | Palisades Tahoe | December 26th–31st
A family favorite with glowing lights, upbeat music, and snow play under the stars.
Tahoe Adventure Company Snowshoe Tours | Ongoing throughout December
Daytime, sunset, and Full Moon tours showcase Tahoe’s snow-covered beauty.
Chalet Dinners & Christmas Eve Celebrations:
Christmas Eve Dinner at Palisades Tahoe
December 24th, 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Celebrate with a chef-curated holiday menu and elegant alpine ambiance.
Chalet Dinner at Alpine
December 26th and December 27th, 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm
A cozy mountain dinner featuring seasonal favorites, perfect after a day on the slopes.
Sunset Happy Hour at Palisades Tahoe
December 26th and December 27th, 4:00 pm
Ride the Aerial Tram for stunning views and toast to the season with craft cocktails at sunset.
January 2026 Highlights
January brings crisp air, long ski days, and plenty of après-ski entertainment. It’s the heart of Tahoe’s winter, where fresh powder meets mountain culture.
Full Moon Snowshoe Tours | Tahoe Adventure Company | January 2nd, 3rd, and 31st
Experience Tahoe by moonlight with expert guides and stunning lake views.
KT Base Bar Music Series | Palisades Tahoe | Weekends throughout January
Catch live outdoor music on the slopes every Friday and Saturday afternoon.
Sunset Happy Hour at High Camp | Palisades Tahoe | Select evenings in January
Ride the Aerial Tram to High Camp for breathtaking views and alpine cocktails as the sun sets over the Sierra.
Disco Tubing | Palisades Tahoe | ongoing through winter
Keep the festive energy going with light-filled tubing sessions throughout the month.
Live Music at Crystal Bay Club | Multiple dates
Enjoy performances by regional and touring artists including Dead Winter Carpenters (January 24) and Grateful Shred (January 31st).
Progression Sessions Snowboard Workshops | Palisades Tahoe | January 8th–9th
Sharpen your skills with professional coaching on terrain parks and freeride features.
February 2026 Highlights
February blends romance, outdoor fun, and big community celebrations, making it one of Tahoe’s most dynamic months of the season.
Andy Frasco & The U.N. with Lonesome Joy | Crystal Bay Club | February 3rd, 8:00 pm
A high-energy show perfect for kicking off the month.
Valentine’s Day Snowshoe with Champagne & Dessert | Tahoe Adventure Company | February 14th, 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm
Celebrate love on the trail with a guided sunset snowshoe followed by sparkling wine and sweet treats.
Chalet Dinners & Sunset Happy Hours | Alpine Lodge & High Camp | February 13rd–15th
Enjoy cozy mountain dining and panoramic sunset views during this romantic weekend.
KT Base Bar Music Series | Palisades Tahoe | Weekends throughout February
Live music continues every Friday and Saturday, creating the perfect après-ski atmosphere.
The Elovaters with Shwayze & Jarv | Crystal Bay Club | February 19th, 8:00 pm
A night of upbeat reggae and hip-hop rhythms in Tahoe’s favorite live venue.
Trouble: A Tribute to Coldplay | Crystal Bay Club | February 20th, 8:00 pm
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of live music and nostalgia.
Tahoe Adventure Company Snowshoe Tours | Ongoing throughout February
Continue exploring Tahoe’s trails under winter skies with daytime, sunset, and Full Moon tours.
SNOWFEST 2026 | multiple locations across North Lake Tahoe | February 25th–March 8th
Tahoe’s biggest winter celebration returns for its 44th year with parades, fireworks, ski-town parties, and family-friendly events supporting local nonprofits.
Plan Your Winter Getaway in North Lake Tahoe!
From early-season snowshoe tours to the grand finale of SNOWFEST, North Lake Tahoe shines all winter long! Plan your full itinerary with our Guide to Winter in North Lake Tahoe, and don’t forget to book the perfect Lake Tahoe rental!
Eager to start your winter adventure? Book your North Lake Tahoe vacation rental with Tahoe Signature Properties and experience the beauty, excitement, and warmth of Tahoe this season!
