SnowFest 2026 – North Lake Tahoe  

The monster winter snow storm that we just had a few days ago is a great set-up for the Annual SnowFest 2026 in the greater North Lake Tahoe – Truckee Area!

This year SnowFest 2026 will start on Thursday, February 26, 2026, and end on Sunday, March 8, 2026!

About eleven (11) days of winter fun located in the greater North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area with over fifty (50) events to choose from! everyone 

Snow festival event planners and volunteers work all year long to make this winter experience one of the very best and it is an event that should be on your calendars!

It is hard to believe that our winter season is about to enter the “spring skiing” phase and with the arrival of March, and the  start to a new season just around the corner, the start of the 44th Annual Event is a welcomed event!

This annual event started back in the spring of 1982, and it is still going strong over 40+ years later, so you know it has to be great to have survived over four decades!

While the North Lake Tahoe SnowFest event has become one of the largest winter carnival events in the western United States, it really represents the best of small town living and why I love this our area!

In my unbiased opinion, I think this is one of its best ways of combining fun events and winter activities with fund-raisers for our local organizations that do so much for our community.  Have fun and support great local causes and organizations, a win-win!

I am a big fan of SnowFest and I hope you get the chance to come up and enjoy some local Tahoe fun too!

If you haven’t been to any of the North Lake Tahoe Snowfest events in the past, now is the time to make plans to be here!

SnowFest 2026 – North Lake Tahoe  Festival Event Schedule (events can change check here for the most updated schedule:

Thursday, February 26, 2026 

• 5:00 p.m. – 9 p.m. Opening Ceremonies & Introduction of Snowfest Scholarship Candidates at Gar Wood’s, 5000 North Lake Blvd., Carnelian Bay, CA|  Cost: Pre-Sale Tickets are $50 per person, or $60 at the door. Your ticket includes: Food, Wet Woodys, Wine, Beer, and collector edition beads.  Live music by the Blues Monsters! 

Friday, February 27, 2026 

• 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.  Le Chamois SNOWFEST (Loft Bar) Deck Party- Benefiting Lake Tahoe Ski Club Foundation | 1930 Olympic Valley Road, Olympic Valley, CA |  Snowfest Start the party going on Friday at the Le Chamois deck. DJ, drinks and food (costs will vary depending on what you order). 

• 3:00 p.m.  – 5:00 p.m. Poppy’s “brain freeze” Ice Cream Eating Contest |  521 North Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA 96145 Cost:  Penguins- ages 4 to 9 $8 entry fee; Polar Bears – ages 10-15 $8 entry fee;  Yeti- ages 16 and up!  $8 entry fee

• 5:00 p.m.  – 7:00 p.m. Nordic Nights – Cross-Country Skiing in the North Tahoe Regional Park |  6600 Donner Road, Tahoe Vista, CA  |  Get your skis out (no skis- no problem they will have Free Demos) and join the fun for a night of skiing, dancing, races, and a fun family party in the North Tahoe Regional Park!

No skis? No problem! FREE Demos available to learn how to stride and glide. This is a NEW Snowfest event with LIVE LOCAL DJ! FREE skate ski and classic ski demos provided by Tahoe Multi-Sport. Hot cocoa and fires for roasting marshmallows.

Register to race in the Birdie Loop Relay team event or the individual time trial event!

Event is weather and snow conditions dependent.  Dogs on leash welcome.

• 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. SnowFest Fireworks Spectacular 2026 – Tahoe City Golf Course,  251 North Lake Blvd., Downtown Tahoe City – Fireworks at about 7 p.m.  (be early so you don’t miss it : )  ) | One of my favorite events – yes, fireworks over the snow covered ground here in downtown Tahoe City! | 

Live music begins at 5:30 p.m. with the Nomads, Food and drinks are available for purchase. Dress for being outside at night.  This is a fun evening outdoors with Fireworks starting about 7 p.m. ish!

Note:  If you have a view of Downtown Tahoe City, you will see the show, so you don’t have to be at the Golf Course to see the Fireworks explode!

• 8:00 p.m.  – 10:00 p.m. | Snowfest Fireworks Afterparty at Sierra Surf Club |  455 North Lake Blvd. downtown Tahoe City, CA | Sierra Surf Club with drink and food specials, and live music.  Cost for food and beverages based on your selection.

Saturday, February 28, 2026

• 8a.m. – 11 a.m. North Tahoe Firefighters Association (NTFFA)  Pancake Breakfast – Tahoe City |  Tahoe City Fire Station at 222 Fairway Drive, Tahoe City, CA | Pancake Breakfast Cost:  $10 per adult $5 per child (kids under 12) NT Fire merchandise is also for sale.  This is a great way to start your SnowFest day of fun, before the Street Faire (formerly parade) and other events!

• 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.  Frozen Pickle Pickleball Tournament |  Boys & Girls Club of Kings Beach, 8125 Steelhead Ave, Kings Beach, CA 96143 | Register now for the 2nd Annual Frozen Pickle Cup at the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe. Different divisions and tournament formats.  Times and dates vary based on the division. There is a cost for this event. Register in Advance | Benefits local youth programs.

• 9:00 a.m. – 12 noon  Rosie’s Cafe Street Faire Pre-Party |  Rosie’s Café, downtown Tahoe City, 571 North Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA | Looking to start your SNOWFEST day off in the right way?  Check out Rosie’s Café, Tahoe City Street Faire Pre-Party! Food and drink costs will vary depending on your purchase, but this will put you in the center of the pre-Street Faire (formerly parade) action!

• 11:00 a.m. – 3 p.m. Electric Adventure Showcase:  Rivian & Arc at Snowfest | Plumas Bank Tahoe City, 215 North Lake Boulevard, Tahoe City, CA | Step into the future of mountain living at the Rivian & Arc Electric Adventure Showcase, where innovation, performance, and Tahoe’s outdoor lifestyle come together.  Get up close with Rivian electric adventure vehicles!  On the water side, discover Arc, creators of high-performance, all-electric wake boats designed for clean, quiet, zero-emission days on the lake.  See how electric vehicles and boating are reshaping Tahoe life.  Whether you’re EV-curious, sustainability-minded, or just love cool gear, this is an event to add to your SNOWFEST experience.

• 11 a.m. – 12 noon Horseshoe String Band with Cocoa & Company at Minglewood | 590 North Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA |  Gather at the Minglewood Coffee & Company before the parade starts and enjoy a warm drinks, creative fun, and easygoing mountain vibes.  Minglewood will be serving up hot cocoa and cider, setting the scene for a relaxed afternoon where kids can get creative with coloring pages and face painting, while parents kick back and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere.   Cost of drinks and food will vary depending on your selection.

• 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Tahoe City SNOWFEST Street Fair (Formerly known as the Tahoe City SnowFest Parade) – downtown Tahoe City, CA – Free.  This year the entries will be stationed along the traditional parade route (no actual parade) creating a walkable Street Faire from 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.   Vendors will be at the Penny Bear Park with Snowfest Merchandise!

• 12 noon – 4 p.m. Annual Gar Woods Polar Bear Swim | Gar Woods (5000 North Lake Blvd., Carnelian Bay, CA.) Swimmer registration begins prior to the race.  Racing will begin at 2:30 p.m. so you will have time to experience the Tahoe City Street Faire and see the races.   Call 530-546-3366 for more information on the race.  Must be 18+ or older to race.  Watch swimmers swim out to the buoys (about 250 yards) in 39-degree water. Watch from the restaurant, deck, beach, or pier.  So much fun to watch these brave swimmers!

• 12:00 p.m.  noon – 7 p.m. The Haus Snowfest BrewFest – benefiting the Shane McConkey Foundation | Cobblestone Mall |  495 North Lake Blvd., downtown Tahoe City, CA.  Cost:  Admission is FREE...

  The annual Tahoe Art Haus and Tahoe Tap Haus SNOWFEST BrewFest is back – rain, shine, or snow blizzard, the party will still go on at the Cobblestone parking lot all day following the Tahoe City Street Faire.

  This year, the BrewFest will feature ten (10) local breweries, along with wine and hard kombucha.

Ready to dance?  , live music from DJs Lazar, Lyja, Jonny Wild, Rambo Party, and headliner The Sponges playing on Edna the Elephant, a Burning Man art car.

This event benefits the Shane McConkey Foundation and supports local causes through SNOWFEST. Admission is free, but we encourage you to consider making a DONATION to support the festival and community programming.

The souvenir cup is $20 and includes one beer; additional beer tickets are $7 each.

• 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Free Art Day – Snowfest Mardi Gras Mask Making at North Tahoe Arts | 380 N Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA  |  Make a FREE Mardi Gras mask as part of North Lake Tahoe SnowFest.  Create your own festive mask.  All the supplies—feathers, beads, glitter, and more—plus plenty of creative encouragement are supplied, free of charge.   No experience needed, just bring your imagination. 

• 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Home Again Celebration – Jenni & Jesse Live at Homewood | Homewood Mountain Resort, 5145 West Lake Blvd, Homewood, CA  Free Art Day –  Jesse and Jenni of the Dead Winter Carpenters return to the stage at Homewood Mountain Resort with their signature blend of progressive bluegrass and roots rock – the perfect soundtrack for a West Shore après.

  Come share a Home Again Hazy IPA, enjoy some great music and learn more about Homewood’s commitment to keeping the resort the heart of the West Shore.  Food and beverage costs will vary depending on your selection.

Sunday, March 1, 2026

• 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. The Great Ski Race | Tahoe City XC Center, 925 Country Club Dr, Tahoe City, CA  | This race started in 1977 and is one of the largest cross-country ski races west of the Mississippi!  The race starts at the Tahoe City Nordic Cross-County Ski Center in Tahoe City and will finish at the Tahoe XC center.  The race is 26 kilometers (for those that struggle with the metric system that is 16.1557 miles). 
  • It is a fundraiser for the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue a non-profit, all volunteer organization.  More race details can be found here.  www.TheGreatSkiRace.com  

• 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.  Olympic Trails Free Ski + Snowshoe Day at Sugar Pine Point State Park |  7360 W Lake Blvd., Tahoma, CA | Celebrate local Olympic History with a Free Ski and Snowshoe Day at the Park!

  The Winter Olympics just finished in Italy and here is your chance to learn about our local Tahoe History and take a FREE “Path of the Olympians” guided snowshoe hike at 1 pm. Gear included!  

  Not a big skier? How about participating pate in a snowman-building contest?  Ready to try a shot at the historical biathlon set up, or explore the snow science exhibit and the snow craft table for kids.

  Coffee, cocoa and pastries provided by the Sierra State Parks Foundation.

  Hosted by Sierra State Parks Foundation & CA State Parks.  Free but must register for parking through the SSPF website: sierrastateparks.org. We will be accepting donations for: the Sierra State Parks Foundation

• 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Tahoe City Dog Pull Hosted by Alpine Power & Tahoe Dog Co.  | Held right behind  Pete ‘n Peters on the snow at 395 N Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA |  Strong pups will pull weighted sleds down a fenced, snow-packed course built with support from Tahoe City Public Utility District (TCPUD). Dogs compete in weight-based divisions, with the amount they pull determined by their own body weight. Each division crowns a winner—and every winning pup goes home with a well-earned prize bag.

  Entry is $20 per dog, and 100% of proceeds benefit Palisades Avalanche Dogs—supporting the hardworking canine heroes who keep our mountains safer.  Food and Beverage costs will vary on your selection.

• 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. 1st Annual Snowfest Winter Games at CA89 | CA89, 170 North Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA (next to Swigards) |  Welcome CA89 to downtown Tahoe City, CA!!! |  CA89 is turning their parking lot into a winter playground filled with games, music, cold beer, and community. Tahoe Fund will be on site hosting the Glove Toss, RMU will be running Beer Pong, California 89 will host Cornhole, and Truckee Sports Camp will bring the action with Lot Hockey.  50/50 Brewing will be supplying beer throughout the event, while DJ Insomnia keeps the energy high all afternoon.

  Plus, enjoy a separate raffle with prizes and exclusive in-store discounts.

• 4 p.m. – 8:00 p. m.  Sunnyside’s Hawaiian Luau |  Sunnyside Resort, 1850 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA.  Cost:  Prices depend on food and beverage items ordered. Wear your Hawaiian outfits and come out and enjoy the luau-inspired, Hawaiian themed cuisine and cocktail menu.  Nothing feels like SnowFest than wearing Hawaiian shirts and shorts while sipping on beach-inspired drinks while the snowflakes fall outside!  Guests can also join in lei-making and an interactive cocktail experience with UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center.

Proceeds benefit the Tahoe Environmental Research Center, whose vision is to promote healthy, sustainable ecosystems—especially at Lake Tahoe—through scientific understanding and public education, benefiting local and global communities.

Bring on the winter fun!  Contact Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge directly for details on the menu, reservations, and seating times.

Monday, March 2, 2026

• 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.  Za’s Annual Clam Bake! benefiting N. Lake Tahoe Snowfest | Za’s Lakefront, 120 Grove St, Tahoe City, CA 96145 | Cost: $30 per plate includes – 1 lb steamed clams, 1/2 chicken, corn and potatoes. Purchase tickets directly through Za’s.  Enjoy Za’s Traditional Clambake and the best views on the lake in Tahoe City, CA.  

• 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. Milk Jug Curling – Day 1 | Hosted by Lake Tahoe Ski Club Foundation and Tahoe City Public Utility Department (TCPUD)  |  Tahoe City Winter Sports Park (Golf Course),  251 North Lake Blvd., Downtown Tahoe City, CA | Hosted by Lake Tahoe Ski Club Foundation and Tahoe City Winter Sports Park. The first round of the Tahoe Milk Jug Curling competition begins!  Teams of four take turns sliding their jugs (instead of stones) across the Tahoe City Ice Rink, aiming for the target to rack up points. Scoring is based on which team’s jugs land closest to the target, with rounds continuing until one team hits 15 points (win by 2) or time runs out.

  Tickets are $200 per four-person team and include entry into the qualifying rounds (Monday or Wednesday) plus access to the Friday Brat Party Finals at Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, weather permitting.

  Join the crowd Friday evening for the finals and celebration at Café Zenon — no tickets needed for spectators. 

  Event Description: “Tahoe Curling” on the Tahoe City ice rink – teams of 4 compete to see who can slide their milk jugs across the ice to a target to gain points.

  Cost:  Tickets for Teams must be purchased online for each team.  

  • Please join in the fun for the finals and a party for all located at Tahoe City Winter Sports Park & Cafe Zenon on Friday, March 6, 2026. (No tickets required for Friday)

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

• 8 p.m. – 9 p.m. Snowfest Full Moon Eclipse Snowshoe and Sips t Granlibakken | 725 Granlibakken Road, Tahoe City, CA | This Full Moon Snowshoe Hike at Granlibakken pairs fresh snow (yes, our mega winter snow storm has set up amazing conditions for this event), and the glow of a full moon—with the added magic of a lunar eclipse overhead.

  The evening begins at the Granlibakken Ski Hut at the Granlibakken Lodge in Tahoe City.

Enjoy a full moon snowshoe featuring a light dinner of soup, bread, mulled wine, cocoa and other treats.  Depart the ski hut for a 432 elevation gain to a spectacular lookout over Tahoe City and Lake Tahoe. 

Once you arrive, you’ll be served a light dinner and time to enjoy the full moon view before heading back to the Lodge.  Total snowshoe distance is 2.5 miles.  Snowshoes provided, courtesy of West

This one of a kind event is sponsored by Evolve Design Works, with proceeds benefiting North Tahoe High School Project Grad Safe & Sober Night, this is a feel-good night out that gives back to our local community.

Cost: $60 per person or $100 per couple  Purchase tickets.

• 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. Tahoe Youth Figure Skating Recital  |  Tahoe City Winter Sports Park (Golf Course),  251 North Lake Blvd., Downtown Tahoe City, CA | Celebrate the next generation of Tahoe skaters as the Tahoe City Youth Figure Skaters take the rink for a charming winter recital. These young athletes from our local ice rink have been training hard all season, and they’re ready to twirl, glide and dazzle the SnowFest crowd. Bring the whole family and cheer on our hometown skaters as they shine under the lights.

• 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. Pete ‘N Peter’s Bar Game Olympics – Pete ‘N Peter’s 395 N Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA, age 21+, Cost: Entry Fee, plus cost of any food and beverages.  This event is limited.  Sign up early at Pete and Peters (only sign up at Pete and Peter’s as space is limited) 530-583-2400  Teams play a combo of bar games from pool, shuffleboard to darts.

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

• 2:00 p.m.  – 4:30 p.m. Palisades Tahoe Town Race League Series and Mardi Gras – Snowfest Opener | Palisades Tahoe – Exhibition Lift – Julia’s Gold Run 1960 Olympic Valley Road, Olympic Valley, CA, 

  Palisades Tahoe Town Race League Series & Mardi Gras – SNOWFEST Opener

  Celebrate SNOWFEST with the kickoff of the 2026 Town Race League on Wednesday, March 4 with a Mardi Gras themed night of racing, costumes, and community fun. Skiers and snowboarders of all levels are welcome to join this weekly series, running every Wednesday through April 8. Each week features a new theme, and the best-dressed racer wins a prize!

  Some Event Details

  • Check-in table located at the base of the Exhibition Lift from 1:00pm–3:30pm  
  • Race starts at 2:00pm
  • Two (2) runs per racer
  • Must be 18+ years old to participate
  • No racing experience or specialized gear required besides helmets; Helmets are required and a second line of defense. Make sure it is properly fitted, and the chin strap is fastened
  • Register online or in person at the Ticket Office
  • Race Fee: $25

  This community competition is perfect for skiers and snowboarders looking to challenge themselves and showcase their skills. Categories, format, details on events.
  

• 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. West Shore Market Tahoe Trivia Night |  West Shore Market |  1780 West Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA |  Put your local knowledge to the test at Tahoe Trivia Night at West Shore Market. Gather your crew, grab food and drinks, and see who really knows Tahoe best—from history and legends to lake life and mountain culture.

  With fun prizes on the line and plenty of friendly competition, this SNOWFEST favorite is equal parts brainpower and good times. Come for the trivia, stay for the laughs, and celebrate Tahoe pride—one question at a time.

  Proceeds support Sierra Community House.  Food and Beverage costs will vary based upon your selection.

• 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Shadyside Flannel Shirt Fundraiser |  |  Shadyside |  1770 West Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA | Join us for a limited-release drop of vintage thrifted flannels, each customized with sought after Shadyside and Tahoe patches. Every shirt is unique, locally loved, and impossible to replicate—once they’re gone, they’re gone.

  This is a first-come, first-served event. Show up early to grab a number and secure your pick. Sizes and quantities are limited.

  Cost:  $50 per flannel — and 100% of proceeds benefit the Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation, turning a great layer into an even greater cause.

  Stick around for live music, food, and drink specials, and soak up the good vibes knowing your flannel looks great and is doing some real good in the community.  Come in early. Pick fast!

• 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. Milk Jug Curling – Day 2 | Hosted by Lake Tahoe Ski Club Foundation and Tahoe City Public Utility Department (TCPUD)  |  Tahoe City Winter Sports Park (Golf Course),  251 North Lake Blvd., Downtown Tahoe City, CA | Hosted by Lake Tahoe Ski Club Foundation and Tahoe City Winter Sports Park. Day 2 of the Tahoe Milk Jug Curling competition begins!  Teams of four take turns sliding their jugs (instead of stones) across the Tahoe City Ice Rink, aiming for the target to rack up points. Scoring is based on which team’s jugs land closest to the target, with rounds continuing until one team hits 15 points (win by 2) or time runs out.

  Tickets are $200 per four-person team and include entry into the qualifying rounds (Monday or Wednesday) plus access to the Friday Brat Party Finals at Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, weather permitting.

  Join the crowd Friday evening for the finals and celebration at Café Zenon — no tickets needed for spectators. 

  Event Description: “Tahoe Curling” on the Tahoe City ice rink – teams of 4 compete to see who can slide their milk jugs across the ice to a target to gain points.

  Cost:  Tickets for Teams must be purchased online for each team.  

  • Please join in the fun for the finals and a party for all located at Tahoe City Winter Sports Park & Cafe Zenon on Friday, March 6, 2026. (No tickets required for Friday)

• 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.   Rosie’s Bingo Night – Rosie’s Café, | 571 North Lake Blvd., (downtown) Tahoe City, CA Must be 21+ Call for cost.  Black Out Bingo is back!  Try to fill your card for drinks and prizes.

Thursday, March 5, 2026

• 12 noon – 6 p.m.  History of Snow Sports, Industries & Winter Carnival in Truckee |  Museum of Truckee History, 10065 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA  | Get a guided tour of the Museum of Truckee History in the historic train depot and hear about Truckee’s winter-season industries, McGlashan’s vision of Winter Carnival to entice visitors to visit Truckee and the rich history of snow sports in our community town.

  No admission fee. Donations accepted. Donate $10 and mention Snow Fest to receive a free Museum of Truckee History tote bag.

• 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.  Paint Your Pet – A Charlie’s Love Event |  The Wine Collective, Boatworks Mall, 760 North Lake Blvd., Suite 1, Tahoe City, CA |  Join Charlie’s Love, a local North Tahoe nonprofit, for Paint Your Pet, a cozy winter paint-and-sip experience that brings the community together for a great cause.

  Bring a photo of your beloved pet (or choose inspiration on-site!) and enjoy guided painting while sipping wine from The Wine Collective.

A local DJ will be spinning feel-good tunes to keep the creative energy flowing. To make the night even more special, local animal shelters will be on-site with adoptable dogs, giving guests the chance to meet their future best friend.

This SnowFest event blends creativity, community, and compassion—supporting local shelters and humane societies while celebrating the love we all share for our pets. Whether you’re an experienced artist or picking up a paintbrush for the first time, this event is all about fun, connection, and giving back.

Come paint, sip, dance, and maybe even fall in love at first paw. Cost/donation contact The Wine Collective.  Food and beverage costs will depend on your selection.  

• 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.  Snowfest Rocks the Auld Dubliner – Live Music |  Auld Dubliner, 1850 Village South Road, Olympic Valley, CA (Village- Olympic Valley)  |  The Auld Dubliner will rock with live music and serious après vibes in the heart of Palisades Tahoe Village.  This is your spot for live music, great company, and full-throttle SNOWFEST spirit.

  Band announcement coming soon. More details to follow. Sign up for the SNOWFEST Newsletter for the latest updates.

• 8:00 p.m.  – 11:00 p.m. | Snowfest After Hours Featuring Vice Grip at Pete & Peter’s | 395 North Lake Blvd. (downtown) Tahoe City, CA | Enjoy a night of great local live music at Peter n Peters featuring Tahoe favorites Vice Grip.  All Original Hard Rock Outlaw Country Butt Shaking Funk & Blues and classic Tahoe bar vibes.  This is a free SNOWFEST event. Make a Donation to support SNOWFEST.

Friday, March 6, 2026

• 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Snowfest Ice Craving Classic presented by Leo’s Electric |  Gatekeepers Museum Tahoe City, 130 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA Works | Cost for Team Competition.  Individual Cost for wine or Beer/Beverages, or food will depend on what you select to purchase.   Watch as professionals and amateurs take to the chainsaws to create unique and creative ice sculptures. 

• 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.  Tahoe Tap Haus Annual Hot Wing Contest | Tahoe Tap Haus, 475 North Lake Blvd., (Cobblestone Center) Tahoe City, CA 96145 |  Another favorite event returns with the Tahoe Tap Haus Annual Hot Wing Eating Contest, sponsored by Fernet-Branca! This fiery showdown challenges contestants to face three escalating levels of heat — all in just five minutes.

  Conquer the spicy trio, then hold out for another five minutes without drinking or leaving the table to claim victory. It’s a test of heat tolerance, speed, and pure Tahoe grit.

  No sign-up required — just drop in, step up, and see if you’ve got what it takes. Keep your spot at the top of the leaderboard to win the lot and earn serious bragging rights.

  Join the crowd from 4–7 PM for an afternoon of laughs, flames, and SNOWFEST fun at Tahoe Tap Haus. Great food, cold drinks, and hot competition guaranteed.

• 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.  Gelande Quaff at Tahoe National Brewing Company | Tahoe National Brewing Company, 850 N Lake Blvd unit 21, Tahoe City, CA (down behind the old Safeway building facing the lake) | Have you heard of Gelande Quaff? You won’t want to miss out on this wild, beer-throwing fun!

  Throw beer. Catch beer. Drink beer.  Celebrate SNOWFEST!  Here’s how it works:  You slide a beer across a long table, your partner snatches it out of mid-air, and downs it on the spot. Guaranteed laughs and cheers!

  Afterward, stick around for live music from The Inappropriators 8 p.m. to -11 p.m.   Tahoe National Brewing Co

• 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Bridgetender Fat Friday- 3 POINT JAM benefiting Chris Park Scholarship Fund |  Bridgetender 65 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City | Bridgetender Fat Friday 3 Point Jam. Teams of 4 will compete in a bracket style tournament shooting hoops from around an arc in a timed event. (think NBA All Star game 3 point contest set up, but with 4 players) Jerseys or costumes encouraged. Come on out play, or just watch the fun.  Cost of food and drinks is extra and will vary depending on your selection.

• 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.  |  Snowfest 40’s Night with North Tahoe high School Band (NTHS) Jazz Band | Kings Beach Event Center, 8318 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach, CA |  Looking for a night of dancing? Check out the classic 1940s jazz night featuring the talented North Tahoe High School Jazz Band. This lively evening of live music, dancing, and delicious appetizers is your chance to dress the part, hit the dance floor, and support local student musicians

Hosted at the North Tahoe Event Center and proudly sponsored by the North Tahoe FAN Club, this feel-good fundraiser supports the music programs at North Tahoe School and North Tahoe High School—helping keep jazz, creativity, and arts education thriving in our mountain community.  Cost:  $50 per person 

• 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.  Snowfest “Snow Dance”  PROM with TIM HIGH and THE MIGHTY  |  Sierra Surf Club, 425 North Lake Blvd., (Downtown) Tahoe City, CA  |  Dance the night away with this year’s Snow Dance – Tahoe-style. The night comes alive with live music by Tahoe’s own Tim High and the Mighty, bringing infectious rhythms, big sound, and nonstop motion to keep the floor packed. View the full SNOWFEST music lineup.

  Dress is furs, rattles and your shiny best.  Expect drink specials, fun photo moments, and plenty of reasons to keep dancing deep into the night.

  Tickets are $35 per person, with proceeds benefiting Achieve Tahoe, supporting adaptive recreation programs for people with disabilities. Sponsored by PCV Painting and Basecamp Builders.  Cost for food and drinks will vary based upon your selection and are in addition to the ticket price.

• 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. The Inappropriators at Tahoe National Brewing Co. | 850 North Lake Blvd., Unit 21 (Below the old Safeway Building facing the lake), Tahoe City, CA |Live music as The Inappropriators take the stage at Tahoe National Brewing Company. Known across the Tahoe’s Northwest coast for their raucous, genre-bending sound — part alt-country, part indie, all heart — The Inappropriators bring a uniquely bold energy to every performance. Their original tunes are equal parts witty, gritty, and crowd-engaging, blending heartfelt Americana roots with a sharp sense of humor that keeps audiences hooked from the first chord to the last.

Before the music starts, join the fun at Gelande Quaff at Tahoe National Brewing Company — a chaotic, crowd-favorite SNOWFEST challenge where participants throw and catch beers before chugging them down (see event details above starting at 4 p.m.). 

• 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Milk Jug Curling Finals | Day 3 – Tahoe City Winter Sports Park (Golf Course),  251 North Lake Blvd., Downtown Tahoe City (Downtown Tahoe City)
  
  • *Please join us for the finals and a party for all located at Tahoe City Winter Sports Park & Cafe Zenon. (No tickets required for Friday).  FYI – This item was not on the official Schedule, so the starting time is subject to change.

Saturday, March 7, 2026

• 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. North Tahoe Public Utility District (NTPUD) Pancake Breakfast – North Lake Tahoe Events Center, 8318 North Lake Blvd., (downtown) Kings Beach, CA | It’s time for the Kings Beach annual pancake breakfast!  Cost:  yes, adults $10, kids $5.  Tickets available at the door.  The North Tahoe Public Utility District is proud to host the annual Kings Beach Pancake Breakfast before the Kings Beach parade. 

• 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.  Nevada Nordic Freeheel Fest Presented by TNTNV |  Nevada Nordic Freeheel Fest Presented by TNTNV |  Nevada Nordic, Tahoe Multisport, Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation, Salomon, Atomic, Travel North Tahoe Nevada along with other local partners invite you to free your heels and experience cross country skiing and snowshoeing at Nevada Nordic by beautiful Tahoe Meadows.  Cost for food and beverage will vary by your selection.

  · FREE XC Ski Demos + Rentals

  · FREE Snowshoe Rentals

  · Expertise and Guidance

  · DJs Spinning Tunes  in Meadows Junction

  · Beer Tasting

• 10:00 a.m. – 5 p.m. (tee times) Annual Alaskan Open Snow Golf Tournament |  Tahoe City Golf Course, 251 North Lake Blvd., (Downtown) Tahoe City, CA | The Alaskan Open Snow Golf Tournament is nine holes of pure winter fun for a great cause and a highlight of North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST!

  Teams of up to five players take on a snowy nine-hole scramble using tennis balls instead of golf balls and just three clubs of their choice. Skis or snowshoes are welcome but not required — creativity and good humor are strongly encouraged.

  Food and drinks will be available for purchase from Café Zenon!

  Entry is $200 per team (up to five players).

  All proceeds benefit Adventure Risk Challenge, Adventure Risk Challenge (ARC) was founded in North Lake Tahoe as an outdoor leadership and literacy development program for underserved youth. Since 2004 ARC has facilitated relationship-centered youth development programming, using the outdoors as its classroom.

  Find two tee times together so teams can join up and double the fun — this is snow golf, Tahoe style.

  FYI – This event will sell out, sign up in advance.

• 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free Art Day – Snowfest Mardi Gras Mask Making at North Tahoe Arts – Kings Beach | 8731 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach, Tahoe City, CA  |  Make a FREE Mardi Gras mask as part of North Lake Tahoe SnowFest.  Create your own festive mask.  All the supplies—feathers, beads, glitter, and more—plus plenty of creative encouragement are supplied, free of charge.   No experience needed, just bring your imagination. 

• 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.  Tail Wagger 5K Dress Up Your Dog Contest |  8401 North Lake Tahoe Blvd., Kings Beach, CA | The Tail Wagger is bringing back a local favorite! Tail Wagger 5k presents the 2026 Dress Up Your Dog Contest! Walk with your dog in the Kings Beach Snowfest Parade, and the parade judges will also be judging the dogs.

All participants will receive 10% off registration for the Tail Wagger 5K event on May 30th at the North Tahoe Regional Park.  Dress Up Your Dog will take place at Spindleshanks on the Bocce ball courts prior to the Kings Beach Parade. Come dressed to impress!

There will be prizes for Best in Show, Most Original/Creative, Owner Look-A-Like and Best Tail Wagger. 

• • All participants are invited to walk in the parade with the Tail Wagger crew. 
  • FYI – check times for this event as it runs at the same time of the parade.

• 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. SnowFest Kings Beach Parade, downtown Kings Beach, CA  The parade will move along Hwy 28 in downtown Kings Beach!  Over 30+ local businesses and non-profit groups will have parade entries.

This year, the parade expands into a full-day celebration, with shopping, dining, and an afterparty featuring food trucks, live music, sweet treats, cold beer, and kids’ crafts.

Come for the parade, stay all day, and enjoy everything Kings Beach has to offer—from great restaurants and unique shops to stunning Lake Tahoe views.

Find more details on the SNOWFEST Parade in Kings Beach and how to register to be in the parade.

• Parade Day Tips – Get to the parade early (around 11 a.m. ,or earlier) as parking and access to the downtown area becomes harder the closer it gets to parade time.  Better yet, take TART!  Make sure your cell phone or camera has a full charge.  Bring folding chairs, dress in layers, and wear sunscreen so you’ll enjoy the event! 

• 12:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Tahoe Backyard Bonfire with The Wrinkle + Matt Axton & Badmoon  |  8428 Trout Avenue, Kings Beach, CA  | After the Kings Beach Parade don’t forget the SNOWFEST fun will keep on going at the Palooza Bonfire & Live Music at Tahoe Backyard— a daytime community celebration for all ages!

Enjoy live performances from The Wrinkle and Matt Axton & Bad Moon.  

Be sure to stick around as we’ll also be announcing the Snowfest Parade winners during the event!

Free craft station hosted by Chickadee Art Collective, while local food favorites Lumbre and Bear Belly Co. serve up delicious bites and beverages (cost will vary for food and drinks depending on your selection). 

And of course, no winter bonfire is complete without treats — enjoy s’mores, hot cocoa, popcorn, and more!

Proudly brough to you by Chickadee Art Collective | Bear Belly Brewing Co. | Lumbre Mexican Food | Dulce Gula Sweet Treats

• 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 p.m.  Ski You in the ’80s Hot Dog The Movie Party at the Grid |  The Grid Bar and Grill, 8545 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach, CA  |  Come join this retro-inspired Snowfest event celebrating classic ski culture, 80s fun, and friendly competition for kids and adults alike.

  Participants can compete in three crowd-favorite games:

  • Hot Dog Eating Contest

  • Chairlift Shuffle — our ski-themed take on musical chairs

  • Ski Pole Limbo — how low can you go in ski gear?

  Games are organized by age: one for kids and one for adults, so all can play, win, and show off their skills.

  Winners will take home fun prizes, and we’ll be giving away s’mores kits to keep everyone warm and happy after the games.

  An event where everyone can enjoy a family friendly atmosphere to play, cheer, and celebrate Snowfest with The Grid — where Tahoe tradition meets ’80s throwback energy.

• 2 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.  History of Kings Beach & North Tahoe Quiz |  8710 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach, CA  | Show off your knowledge and join us for a History of Kings Beach & North Tahoe game/quiz with a chance to win small prizes! Hosted by Brockway Arts and Culinary Antiques.

• 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.  Incline Village Snowfest Winterfest |  University of Nevada at Lake Tahoe |  999 Tahoe Blvd., Incline Village, NV  |  Incline Village SNOWFEST Winterfest is a family-friendly afternoon full of live music, food trucks, a biodegradable color-powder experience, and playful competitions that capture the spirit of Tahoe in the snow, with Instagram-worthy experiences around every corner.

  Live music includes: Sierra Alphorn Players performing starting at 2 p.m. and Jacked-Up Lake Tahoe performing at 4 p.m.

  Learn more about Incline Village Winterfest.

• 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p/m. | Live Music Après with Home at Tahoe Tap Haus | 475 North Lake Blvd, Cobblestone Center, Tahoe City, CA |  The night features live music from Home, an eclectic San Francisco–based jam band heavily influenced by the funk, rock, and blues of the 1970s. Expect deep grooves, danceable rhythms, and the kind of laid-back energy that defines Tahoe après.

  This is the unofficial 19th hole afterparty for the Alaskan Open Snow Golf Tournament—but the reality is, anyone looking for some more SNOWFEST fun is welcome – golfers, non-golfers, locals, visitors—everyone’s welcome!

Sunday, March 8, 2026

• Don’t forget this is a time change day – Spring Forward one hour, so make sure your clock is showing the right time today, by moving your clocks ahead one hour at 2 a.m.!
• 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.  Starkbierfet at The Chalet at Alpine |  Alpine Chalet at Palisades Tahoe, 2600 Alpine Meadows Road, Alpine Meadows, CA.  |  Celebrate North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST and strong beer at Starkbierfest, a lively Bavarian tradition brought to life at The Chalet at Alpine at Palisades Tahoe.
• Please note: A valid lift ticket or Ikon Pass is required to access the Alpine Chalet, as it is located on-mountain.
• Mountain après with Bavarian flair, featuring strong beer, festive music, and classic Alpine hospitality at The Chalet.
• Starkbierfest Games
  •  Wiener Toss | 11:30 AM
    Grab a friend and partner up for this crowd-pleasing classic. Teammates will toss the wiener back and forth, testing coordination, timing, and teamwork — all while wearing ski or snowboard boots. Equal parts skill, chaos, and comedy. Expect laughs, cheers, and maybe a few fumbled franks.
  •  Bier Slalom | 12:30 PM
    No skis required—just your ski boots or snowboard boots. Guests will race on foot through a short obstacle-style slalom course while holding a full stein, weaving through obstacles with speed, balance, and control. The goal is to complete the course as quickly and cleanly as possible with minimal spillage. Penalties may apply for missed obstacles or excessive loss of liquid.
  •  Stein Holding Contest | 1:30 PM
    A true test of strength and stamina. Competitors hold a full beer stein straight out in front of them for as long as possible. Last person standing wins.

• 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. I-Did-A-Run Dog Race Benefit for the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe at Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center|  15275 Alder Creek Road, Tahoe Donner, Truckee, CA  – Entry Fee.  Dogs of all shapes and sizes compete in this entertaining, timed dog pull race which raises money for the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe.  About this event:  Dogs of all breeds and sizes compete against the clock, pulling sleds over a snow-covered course across different weight divisions. Prizes are awarded to the fastest competitor in each division with a trophy for the overall winner.

  There is an entry fee.  Check in begins at 2-2:30 p.m. Event is weather permitting.

• 12 noon – 3 p.m. River Ranch Annual Snow Sculpture Contest – SNOWFEST Closing Event!
  |  River Ranch Lodge and Restaurant, 2285 River Road (Hwy 89 South at the entrance to Alpine Meadows) Alpine Meadows, CA |  All fun events must come to an end, and the grand finale of North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST is one of them!

The River Ranch Snow Sculpture Contest is the last official event and ends our winter festivities in Tahoe style!

Teams and individuals transform massive mounds of snow into incredible works of art — sculpting, carving, and coloring their creations in hopes of earning cash prize donations for their causes.

As the sculptures take shape, enjoy live music, great food and drinks from River Ranch, and plenty of winter cheer. Spectators can vote for their favorites and cheer on the artists as they compete for top honors.

This closing ceremony also includes the presentation of the SNOWFEST Scholarship Awards, celebrating local high school seniors who embody Tahoe’s spirit of leadership, service, and community involvement.

Food/Beverage costs will vary depending on your selection.  

Don’t miss the raffle prizes and the last laughs.  

This is there are a lot of events and something for everyone!  Get ready to have a lot of fun regardless of the weather conditions.  Have some fun, make some memories, come to Lake Tahoe!

• To check for updates, or more information on events check out the SnowFest 2026 schedule here, or better yet plan to be here in Lake Tahoe and have some winter fun!

See you at some of the SnowFest 2026 – North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival events this year!

Thinking about making Lake Tahoe, California your second home? Check out the homes that are for sale here:

Want to see what condos are for sale in Lake Tahoe? Here are the current listings:

Do you want to search for property – homes, condos/townhomes, and lots for sale by Map?  Start your search here in the Tahoe City, CA area:

• Kings Beach Condos for Sale
• Kings Beach Condos for Sale in a Lakefront Development
• Kings Beach Homes for Sale
• Kings Beach Lakefront Homes for Sale
• Tahoe Vista Condos for Sale
• Tahoe Vista Condos for Sale in a Lakefront Development
• Tahoe Vista Homes for Sale
• Tahoe Vista Lakefront Homes for Sale
• Carnelian Bay Condos for Sale
• Carnelian Bay Homes for Sale
• Carnelian Bay Lakefront Homes for Sale
• Tahoe City Condos for Sale
• Tahoe City Homes for Sale
• Tahoe City Lakefront Homes for Sale
• Homewood Condos for Sale
• Homewood Homes for Sale
• Homewood Lakefront Homes for Sale
• Tahoma Condos for Sale
• Tahoma Homes for Sale
• Tahoma Lakefront Homes for Sale
• Lake Tahoe Lakefront Homes for Sale
• North Shore Lake Tahoe Homes for Sale
• West Shore Lake Tahoe Homes for Sale
• Alpine Meadows Homes for Sale
• Alpine Meadows Condos/Townhouses for Sale
• Northstar Homes for Sale
• Northstar Condos/Townhouses for Sale
• Truckee Homes for Sale
• Truckee Condo/Townhouses for Sale
• Tahoe Donner Homes for Sale
• Tahoe Donner Condos for Sale

• Grays Crossing Homes for Sale
• Grays Crossing Townhomes for Sale
• Lahontan Homes for Sale
• Schaffer’s Mill Homes for Sale
• Schaffer’s Mill Townhomes for Sale
• Martis Camp Homes for Sale
• Truckee Homes for Sale
• Truckee Condos for Sale

For all of your Tahoe real estate needs –

Laura A. Allen | 530.414.1260  | Laura@TahoeLaura.com
BROKER ASSOCIATE | Tahoe Real Estate Agent
CalRE# 01473598
Coldwell Banker | Tahoe City – Truckee, CA

All information is deemed reliable, but is subject to change, and/or correction without notice.

SnowFest 2026 – North Lake Tahoe 

 

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