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Spring Forward – Time Change | Sunday March 8 2020

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Spring Forward – Time Change | Sunday, March 8, 2020

Spring Forward - Time Change | Sunday March 8 2020It’s here!  It is time to Spring Forward and change your clocks, by moving them one-hour ahead if you live in the North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area!

Today, Craig (my better half) made the comment on how happy I was, and that this had to be one of my favorite days of the year.

He is right.  I love the longer days of sunshine, and he knows I am not a fan of the dark, short, cold winter days. Yes, I do enjoy Springing Forward and completing the time change!

It has been an easy, mild winter, with limited snow shoveling days, and the recent warmer weather has made it really feel like Spring could be right around the corner in the Tahoe area!

On Sunday, March 8, 2020, we will all need to move our clocks forward one hour (yes, an extra hour of daylight at the end of our days, and one less hour of sleep) as we start daylight savings time here in our area.

Since the shortest day of the year on December 21, 2019, we’ve added about 81 minutes of daylight or approximately 1.35 hours of sunshine to each day.

If you want to do the math this means that in the greater Truckee – Tahoe City area on the shortest day of the year in December 2019, the sunset was at 4:41 p.m.

Before the time changes, on Saturday, March 7, 2020, sunset will be at 6:00 p.m. or a gain of 79 minutes!

Once we spring forward on Sunday, March 8, 2020, sunset will be an hour later at 7:01 p.m.!

So before you go to bed tonight, you’ll need to remember to set your clocks ahead one hour!

Since we have the twice a year clock change, here is my list of things additional tasks to do on Spring Forward day:

  • Change clocks in our home, office, kitchen (microwave and oven) and cars (move forward one hour).  Yes, we still have some manual clocks that do not reset on their own. : )
  • Check smoke alarms It doesn’t hurt to make sure they are all working and replace those that don’t respond.
  • Check all carbon monoxide alarms/detectors Again, just a quick check to make sure they are still working.
  • Fire extinguishers (check to make sure they haven’t been moved and/or damaged).  This is also a good time to buy and add another one and put it in a room that doesn’t already have one. If you add one each time we have the time change, the additional expense is easier on your budget.
  • Any security device or item that uses a battery and is wireless (security cameras, video doorbells, exterior/interior lights) that need to be changed every 6 months to a year.
  • All Flashlights (working, extra batteries), candles, matches, lighters, short-term lighting devices. 
  • Back-up charger device for cell phones/laptops (if they have a solar option for re-charging that’s always a bonus).  There are a number of extra power devices that can hold a charge up to a year, but now it a good to check and re-charge.
  • Canned goods/emergency food supplies You never know when you might not be able to go to the store, so if you haven’t checked your emergency food and living supplies, now is the time to check on how much-bottled water and other supplies are on hand.
  • Still on my to-do list (from the last time-change):
    • Get a battery-operated radio
    • Get a small TV that can be powered by connecting to just a USB port device
    • Get the TV antenna device that will work with a digital TV that can get us the free national channels.  You never know when the cable could go down.

For those not as familiar with the Lake Tahoe –  Tahoe City  – Truckee areas some of our important utility lines (electric, cable, phone) are located above ground, and several times a year the power will go out for all different types of reasons, so we’re becoming better prepared.

Take advantage of this timely reminder to not only change your clocks but to do some routine safety checks, along with being proactive on your emergency home preparation, for that just in case moment!

Upcoming future dates to keep in mind (number of days are from March 8, 2020):

  • Next time Change:  Sunday, November 1, 2020, | 238 days (Fall Back and Gain One Hour)
  • Longest Day of the Year:  Saturday, June 20, 2020, – Summer Solstice | 104 days
  • 4th of July  | 118 days
  • Shortest Day of the Year 2020 – Monday, December 21, 2020, | 289 days – Winter Solstice

It’s a new decade, and with only a couple of months of 2020 behind us, now is the time to make the most the remaining ten months of 2020!  

If you haven’t made your plans to be here in the North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area, now is the time to look at your calendar and figure out your trips for the rest of the year!

If you live in the greater North Lake Tahoe – Tahoe City area, it’s time to move your clocks forward this Sunday, March 8, 2020!

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:

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.

Spring Forward – Time Change | Sunday March 8 2020

SnowFest 2020 – North Lake Tahoe 

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SnowFest 2020 – North Lake Tahoe      

SnowFest 2020 - North Lake TahoeThe 39th Annual SnowFest 2020 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival will start their ten (10) days of winter fun on February 27, 2020.

This is one of my favorite local events that we have in the North Lake Tahoe – Truckee, California area, and I hope it becomes one of yours too!

SnowFest! 2020 will kick off on Thursday evening, February 27, 2020, with the Kick-off Party.

They will crown the Snow Queen and King and start the festivities off with a live band, drinks, and fun.

The party will come to an end the following Sunday, March 8, 2020, with a new event this year – Snowfest Closing Ceremonies at the Cobblestone Mall in Downtown Tahoe City.

It’s hard to believe that this annual event began back in the spring of 1982 and is still going strong in 2020!

Snowfest! has made the North Lake Tahoe-Truckee area the place to be with ten (10) days of winter events, and activities for everyone!

The North Lake Tahoe SnowFest event has become one of the largest winter carnival events in the western United States.

It is a great way for everyone to celebrate our winter and the bigging of Spring Skiing.  Yes, Spring Skiing and our next season of fun are almost here!

The North Lake Tahoe snow festival event planners work all year long to make this winter experience one that brings people back to the North Lake Tahoe area year-after-year.

Returning for the fourth year in a row will be the fireworks show on Friday night at the Tahoe City Golf Course in downtown Tahoe City beginning at 7 p.m. (weather permitting).  

Don’t be late for this one.  There is something special about seeing fireworks here in the North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area.  It’s a special experience and one you’ll remember long after the exploding balls of fire in the sky have faded

You’ll find that this years’ schedule continues to offer fewer multiple events occurring at the same time.

If you’re trying to do, or be at all events, it’s a long shot to do it all, but I think it is possible.

SnowFest will begin this year on Thursday, February 27, 2020, at Gar Woods Grill and Pier in Carnelian Bay.

Tickets are $40 at the door, and will get you into this SnowFest! Opening Ceremonies with the King and Queen Coronation.

There will be live music, auction, and more for a fun evening to kick off the SnowFest week of activities!

If you’ll be up in the greater North Lake Tahoe  – Truckee area you’ll want to take advantage of all of the fun events that are scheduled for this week.

Some of my favorite events during the ten days are the fireworks.

In the past, this has been at Squaw Valley, but are now being held on Friday night in downtown Tahoe City at the Tahoe City Golf Course.  If you have a view of the downtown Tahoe City area, you’ll see this show.

A fireworks show in North Lake Tahoe is always a must-see event!

If you can’t make the Friday night fireworks show, don’t forget the Weekly Winter Saturday Night Fireworks Show at Squaw Valley will take place on Saturday evening at 6 p.m.

While this is not an official SnowFest! event, I think it should be on your list of fun things to do in the North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area for this weekend. 

This will be their last show of the season on Saturday, February 29, 2020!  So put it on your list of things to do.  A great way to celebrate Leap Year 2020!

My advice when it comes to our fireworks shows, do not be late.  Some of these shows are not long, so if they start on time, and you are late, you may miss the show.  

Next on my SnowFest list is the annual Tahoe City Parade, which will happen on Saturday, February 29, 2020.  

This is the very best of small-town living and why we are a top second home market and visitor destination! 

The SnowFest! Parade is a great reminder that communities have a heart and soul that really does shine in the local traditions and celebrations like the annual SnowFest parade in downtown Tahoe City.

A couple of parade watching tips:

  • Bring your own folding chairs
  • Arrive early so you can get yourself a good parade watching spot and parking spot.
  • It may snow, or it may be sunny.  Check the final weather forecast the night before and dress accordingly.  
  • Dress in layers so you can adjust to meet the sunshine, shade, and a breeze if we get one.
  • If it is going to snow, I like to wear a rain slicker over my coat.  They are inexpensive – think yellow plastic game day ponchos and they will keep you warm and dry.
  • Bring water
  • If you bring your Fido, be sure he/she is on a leash. Remember to bring plastic bags to pick up after them.  You should also be prepared for loud noises, so if your pet does not do well in a crowd, or around other animals, leave them in the car, or at home.

If you are still up for more fun after the parade, you’ll need to check out the 32nd Annual classic Polar Bear Swim at Gar Wood’s in Carnelian Bay.

This is an event that you won’t believe it, until you’ve been there to watch those brave souls that will actually wade into Lake Tahoe and try to swim that race, let alone finish it.

It’s crazy to watch.  Fun to cheer them on, and you’ll be impressed with those swimmers that actually finish the race.

After the race check out the Haus Brewfest in the parking lot of the Cobblestone Mall in Downtown Tahoe City, CA.

There will be live music, local breweries, and food trucks.  Just another way to have some more fun, connect with friends, make new friends, and close out the day 

Over the years I have found one of the keys to a successful SnowFest week is to pace yourself!  On Saturday you’ll need to pace yourself so you’re ready for more fun on Sunday.

Sunday has more events like the Fat Cat’s Hot Wing Eating contest followed by the annual Sunnyside Luau at the Sunnyside Resort on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe.

During the week there are a number of fun SnowFest events like the Blackout BINGO at Rosie’s Cafe, or the 12th Annual Bridgetender’s Ribfest.

If you can’t be in North Lake Tahoe on the opening weekend of SnowFest! 2020, you’ll get a second chance the following weekend to enjoy the NTPUD pancake breakfast, and see another SnowFest parade in downtown Kings Beach on Saturday, March 7, 2020.

On Sunday, March 8, 2020, the annual SnowFest event will come to an end with their final events.

If you haven’t checked out either the Tahoe Donner Iditarun (I-did-a-run) that benefits the Tahoe Truckee Humane Society, or the River Ranch Snow Sculpture Contest in Alpine Meadows, put both on your list to do this year. 

New this year is the SnowFest!  Closing Ceremonies in the parking lot of the Cobblestone Mall in Downtown Tahoe City.  More music, food, drinks, and fun.  

There is so much fun just waiting for you here in North Lake Tahoe – Truckee and SnowFest 2020 is just one of our annual events that keep bringing people back to our area year-after-year!

SnowFest 2020 – North Lake Tahoe  Festival Event Schedule:

Thursday, February 27, 2020 

  • 5:00 p.m. – 8 p.m. Opening Ceremonies & Queen Coronation at Gar Wood’s in Carnelian Bay, CA (5000 North Lake Blvd.) $40 per person donation at the door.  Kings and Queen coronation, enjoy heavy appetizers, unlimited select beer, wine, and Wet Woodys, and live music by the Blues Monsters!
  • Did you know that your entry fee supports local student organizations and scholarships?  The elected King and Queen will receive 33% of their ticket sales plus an additional $1,500 each as the winners.  Runners up will receive 33% of their ticket sales.

Friday, February 28, 2020 

  • 2:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Pioneer Cocktail Club Block Party – Join the Pioneer Cocktail Club and surrounding businesses for an afternoon of outside live music and activities  A $15 fee/adults $8/kids age 16 and under. Your entry to the music as well as one free drink.  ALL proceeds go to the High Fives Foundation
  • 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. SnowFest Fireworks Spectacular 2020 – Tahoe City Golf Course,  Downtown Tahoe City – A 30-minute Fireworks show in our winter wonderland – You’ll be able to see the fireworks show anywhere you can see the downtown Tahoe City area. This event is free, but be on time, so you don’t miss anything.  This is a weather-permitting event.

Saturday, February 29, 2020 (Leap Year!!!)

  • 7 a.m. – 11 a.m. Pancake Breakfast by the Tahoe City Fire Department (North Tahoe Firefighter’s Association) – 222 Fairway Drive (New North Tahoe Fire Station up behind the Chevron Station in Downtown Tahoe City), Fundraiser for the Firefighter’s Association who works with the NT Fire District.  Cost:  Kids (ages 4-12) $5 | Adults $8 | kids under 3 free
  • 11:30  a.m. – 12:30 noon Parade Watching Party at Blue Agave downtown Tahoe City, CA – Announcing, viewing and judging.  The winning float gets a $1,000 cash prize!
  • 11:30 a.m. – 12-noon p.m. Tahoe City SnowFest Parade – downtown Tahoe City, CA – Free

Parade Day Tips –

  • Get to the parade early (around 11 a.m.) as parking and access to the downtown area becomes a challenge the closer to it gets to parade time.
  • Make sure your cell phone or your camera has a full charge.
  • Bring folding chairs.
  • Dress in layers.  It may be sunny and warm, cold and windy, or snowing.  Be prepared for all conditions.
  • 12:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. SnowFest Post Parade Party Pete ‘n Peters –  at 395 N Lake Blvd, downtown Tahoe City, CA.  meet the Vulcans from Minnesota and our own Tahoe City Miners.
  • 12:30 p.m. – 3 Tahoe Community Nursery School Winter Party & Fundraiser at Za’s lakefront restaurant, Tahoe City, CA.  Fundraiser for the Tahoe Community Nursery School.
  • 12 noon – 6 p.m. Haus Brewfest, Cobblestone Mall, Featuring beers from five (5) breweries, food from Food Trucks, three (3) bands.  All ages welcome.  Proceeds benefit the Shane McConkey Foundation.
  • 12:30 p.m.  – 2 p.m., Paint the Snowman (Crafts) – 380 North Lake Blvd, North Tahoe Arts, Tahoe City, CA North Tahoe Arts will Paint the Snowman! All material provided.  Children are invited to come to North Tahoe Arts starts right after the parade. Free event.
  • 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Za’s Lakefront Restaurant Tahoe Community Nursery School Winter Party & Fundraiser at 120 Grove Street, Tahoe City, CA.  Fundraiser for the Tahoe Community Nursery School. Food, silent auction, music and fun.
  • 2:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. 31st Annual Gar Woods Polar Bear Swim, Gar Woods (5000 North Lake Blvd., Carnelian Bay, CA.) Swimmer registration beginning prior to the race.  Race at 2:30 p.m. 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.  Raffle after the swim.

(Not on the official SnowFest Calendar, but who doesn’t love seeing more winter fireworks?)

  • 6 p.m. Winter Fireworks Show (last show of the season) at the Village at Squaw Valley (January and February) – You’ll be able to see the fireworks anywhere you can see the Village and ski resort area.  This event is Free, weather permitting.  Be early for this one!

Sunday, March 1, 2020

  • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Great Ski Race | They start at the Tahoe City Nordic Cross-County Ski Center in Tahoe City and the race ends 18.43 miles later at the Cottonwood Restaurant and Bar in Truckee!
  • 12 noon – 2 p.m. The Dog Pull hosted by Alpine Power Equipment | Registration is at 12 p.m., races begin at 1 p.m. races – Behind Plumas Bank in Downtown Tahoe City.  This popular Dog Pull race returns! Register your dog, no matter what size! They will pull weighted sand bags according to their size and weight. Prizes will be awarded!
  • 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. 4th Annual Fat Cat Hot Wing Eating Contest 599 North Lake Blvd. Tahoe City –Hot Wing Eating Contest – prizes!  Entry fee is $30 and all proceeds go towards Keep Squaw True.
  • 4 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Sunnyside’s Hawaiian Pig Roast – Sunnyside Resort, 1850 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA.  Wear your Hawaiian outfits and come out and enjoy a Hawaiian inspired cuisine and cocktail menu.  Sign up for the Hula Pie Eating and Hula Hoop Contests.  Additional food and drink fees will apply depending on what you order.  Nothing feels like SnowFest! than wearing Hawaiian shirts, sipping on beach-inspired drinks while the snowflakes fall outside.  Bring on the winter fun!

Monday, March 2, 2020

  • 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. 6th Annual Za’s Clam Bake – Za’s, 120 Grove Street, downtown Tahoe City, CA. A traditional East Coast Clam Bake including clams, 1/2 chicken, potatoes, and corn.  Call for pricing.  

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

  • 7 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Pete ‘N Peter’s Bar Game Olympics – Pete ‘N Peter’s, age 21+, Entry Fee, downtown Tahoe City, CA.  This event is limited to sixteen (16) two-person teams.  Entry fee of $20 per team. Sign up early as space is limited 530-583-2400

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

  • 12 noon – 7 p.m. Ice Carving Competition – They are still looking for a host per the Snowfest website.
  • 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Ice Cream Easting Contest at Mountain Slice – North Tahoe Fire Protection District – Station 52, Kings Beach, CA Ice Cream speed-eating contest. One pint of participants’ choice of flavor.  Two agent groups 8 – 14 years and 15- Adult.  First one to fins wins a t-shirt and fit certificate.  Sign up on the Mountain Slice Website or in Mountain Slice.  Entry Fee $10/person.
  • 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Milk Jug Curling – Winter Sports Park – Teams of 4 compete against each other with colored frozen milk jugs.  Points scored with the time limit.  Prizes awarded.  Raclette Fondue included in the entry fee of $100/team of 4. Hosted by the Lake Tahoe Ski Club and proceeds benefit Lake Tahoe Ski Club Foundation.
  • 8:30 p.m.   Rosie’s Bingo Night – Rosie’s Café, downtown Tahoe City, CA Must be 21+ Call for cost.

Thursday, March 5, 2020

  • 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Meet the Rescue Dogs of Squaw Valley, hosted by North Lake Tahoe Visitor Center – TC Visitors Center – 100 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA Meet the Avalanche Rescue Dogs of Squaw Valley, in person.

Get your photo taken surrounded by our “Heros of Winter” dogs. All of the $5.00 donations go to the Squaw Dog Foundation. T-shirts for sale, free snacks, and hot cider provided. Donations gladly accepted for beer and wine.

  • 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. West Shore Market Cornhole Tournament  1780 West Lake Blvd, Tahoe City, CA
    Join them for the second annual Cornhole Tournament held outside at the West Shore Market this year.  Team entry is $20/team, proceeds benefit the Chirs Parks Scholarship Fund.  Registration deadline is at 5:15 p.m. on March 5, 2020!

Friday, March 6, 2020

  • 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. 11th Annual Bridgetender Rib Fest (65 West Lake Blvd., Tahoe City) – This event sells out every year, so get their early if you love to eat ribs.  The entry fee is $20.  Pricing for food is available at the event.  A portion of the proceeds will go to the Chris Parks Scholarship Fund.
  • 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.   Blake Apalooza | Blue Agave’s Blake Apalooza, hosted by The Blue Agave (425 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA) Apres Ski Blake-Apalooza is a social tribute to the legacy of local legend and friend to all of Tahoe City, “Blake Beeman” featuring music by the Beer Gardeners.  

Saturday, March 7, 2020

  • 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. North Tahoe Public Utility District (NTPUD) Pancake Breakfast – 8318 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach, CA | North Lake Tahoe Event Center, downtown Kings Beach, CA. Pricing $10/Adults and $5/Children.  Pancakes, sausage and fresh strawberries, coffee, milk, and orange juice.  All proceeds go to benefit North Tahoe Public Utilities District’s Friends of the Park Fund, which helps to fund park improvements or amenities.
  • 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. Dress Up Your Dog – Sponsored by NTPUD, 8318 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach.  $10 per dog.  Categories that will be judged include, Best in Show, Looks Most Like Owner, and new this year Best Recreational & Parks Dog, where your dog shows off their favorite recreational activity.  Registration opens at 9:30 a.m. on the deck at the North Tahoe Events Center.  The contest begins at 10 a.m.   Proceeds benefit Friends of the Park.
  • 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.

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

  • 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Alaskan Open Snow Golf Tournament, Tahoe City Gold Course Second annual Alaskan Open.  Best Ball 4 person scramble snow golf played with tennis ball and up to three clubs per player.  This event is a 2 p.m. Shotgun start with 9 holes. The entry fee to still be determined.
  • 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. 4th Annual Snowball Drop Fundraiser North Tahoe High School and North Tahoe School PTO fundraiser.  Tickets are sold in advance – Grand prize $1,000

  • Pre-purchase raffle tickets Drawing directly following the Kings Beach SnowFest Parade. Look for the Snowglobe by d’Lish Catering!

    1st Place Grand Prize is $1,000, 2nd Place Prize is $100.

  • Tickets can be purchased through students at North Tahoe School and North Tahoe High School with cash, checks (made out to NT PTO) or online through PayPal: PayPal.me/snowballfundraiser .

    All proceeds from this fundraiser help our PTO fund school programs, supplies, field trips, and much more for North Tahoe School and North Tahoe High School students.

  • 9 p.m. – 11 p.m. Live Music at the Hacienda del Lago, Tahoe City  – Live music by Home.

Sunday, March 8, 2020

  • SPRING FORWARD  – Did you remember to move your clocks forward 1 hour? The twice a year time change happened at 2 a.m. so make sure your clocks are reflecting the right time so you don’t miss an event today!
  • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Family Fun Day – Tahoe City Winter Park – downtown Tahoe City
  • 12 noon – 3 p.m. 15th Annual Tahoe Donner I-Did-A-Run – Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area – 11603 Snowpeak Way, Truckee, CA in Tahoe Donner, Truckee, CA  – Event sign-ups start at 12 noon and the race starts at 1 p.m.  Event takes about 2 hours.  The event raises money for the Humane Society of Tahoe-Truckee – all ages are welcome – different dog categories. $20/entry.  Limited to 40 contestants. Dogs pull a covered wagon sled down a snow-covered chute against the clock.
  • 12 noon – 4 p.m.  River Ranch Annual Snow Sculpture Contest, River Ranch, Hwy 89 South at the entrance to Alpine Meadows, CA  The 30th Annual snow sculpture contest.  Teams of 1-4 people are welcome. There is an entry fee to build a sculpture, but Free Admission to see the entries.  Cost on any food or beverage items purchased will vary depending on what you select. : )
  • 3 p.m. – 6 p.m.  Snowfest Closing Ceremonies – Cobblestone Parking Lot, Downtown Tahoe City – The conclusion of the 39th Annual Snowfest! with the King and Queen Raffle prizes, live music by Home, and more!  This is new this year and should be a fun way to spend your Sunday afternoon!

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 2020 schedule here, or better yet plan to be here in Lake Tahoe and have some winter fun!

See you at some of the SnowFest 2020 – 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:

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 2020 – North Lake Tahoe 

New Year’s Eve North Lake Tahoe – Truckee December 31 2019

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New Year’s Eve North Lake Tahoe – Truckee December 31, 2019 

It’s almost here, New Year’s Eve in the North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area, Tuesday, December 31, 2019.

If you are looking for ways to celebrate and bring in the New Year, and a new decade, not to mention it’s a Leap Year, here are some of our local Tahoe events that will happen on  New Year’s Eve.

If you plan to stay in and celebrate in your Tahoe home that’s always a great choice. 

Who doesn’t enjoy a cozy warm evening inside with friends and loved ones to bring in the New Year, but if you want a bigger event with some razzle-dazzle to it, then check out one of these FREE local events.

There will be a New Year’s Eve Light Parade and Fireworks Show at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort, a  Torchlight (LED) light parade, music,  and a fireworks show at the Village at Squaw Valley, and music followed by a free firework show at the Northstar Village, all on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2019.

We have been to all three events over the years – Tahoe Donner, the Northstar annual Fire and Ice New Year’s Eve Celebration (live music and fireworks), and the torchlight event and fireworks show at the Village at Squaw Valley. 

All events are a lot of fun to watch, and are a great way to bring in the New Year!  This year based upon the timing of the events, I think you can get to two of the three scheduled events!

A couple of tips if you’re headed to any of these outdoor events:

  • Dress Warmly – You’ll want to dress warmly and in layers as you’ll be outside and the weather for New Year’s Eve is expected to be in the mid-’20s!
  • Be Early – Parking is always a challenge during our peak visitor seasons, and during the Christmas – New Year’s holiday period, we’re at capacity, so allow enough time for parking and finding a good spot to watch the show!  If you are taking the bus, check out the schedules and go for the earlier route.  Events tend to start on time in Tahoe, so give yourself extra travel time and plan to be early.
  • Flashlight – Not every place has outdoor lighting at night in our area. Always bring along a small flashlight.  Don’t count on your cell phone flashlight.  You know you’ll take a lot of photos at the event, and that always drains the battery faster,  so carry a real flashlight and make it easy to find your way back to the place you are staying at, to your car, or to the bus stop.

There are a couple of ways to enjoy any of these events:  

The first, park and join the groups and enjoy the people watching, free music and entertainment before the light parades, or music begins, followed by the fireworks show. 

Or, take the short-cut method and just watch the light parades and fireworks show from any place that has a view of the ski runs.

If you see groups out in the parking lot with the camping chairs and blankets by their cars, chances are I’m one of them, waiting for the show to begin.

Yes, we will miss the people watching, and the enjoyment that comes from dancing and live music, but the trade-off is an easy-in and easy-out.

We’ve been watching the firework shows from our car for a few years now and we’ve found a good spot in the parking lot (typically at the very back), or anywhere you can see the ski resorts to watch the show.

Depending on the weather wind and temperature, we will get out the folding camping chairs, blankets, hot chocolate, and popcorn, and watch the show from a distance.

If you want to make a party out of it, plan ahead and bring your own snacks and beverages.  Regardless of where you watch the firework shows, you’ll have a good time.

Here is the schedule of the Free Tahoe Donner Northstar New Year’s Eve events:

New Year’s Eve Light Parade and Fireworks Show – Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort 

  • 4:30 -5:30 p.m. Signups for the Light Parade
  • 6:15 | Load Chairs
  • 6:45- 7 p.m.  Fireworks Show |  The fireworks will start once the light parade is done.  If you have a view of the Tahoe Donner ski hill you’ll be able to see the light parade and fireworks show.
  • Parking – Parking is limited, so plan ahead.
  • Conditions and Weather Permitting

Here is the schedule of the Free Northstar New Year’s Eve events:

New Year’s Eve – Northstar, California Fire and Ice Event 

  • 12 noon – 9 p.m. | Music all afternoon and into the evening with the headline “Hip Service” starting at 7 p.m.  Enjoy music, watch the ice skaters, sit by the fire pits, and then enjoy the festivities.
  • 9 p.m.  Fireworks Show at the Northstar Village |  If you have a view of the Northstar Village area you’ll be able to see the Fireworks display from a distance.
  • Parking – Parking is limited, so consider using the Truckee Shuttle to get to and from the event.  To view their schedule www.TahoeTruckeeTransit.com
  • Conditions and Weather Permitting

We have gone the past few years and enjoyed the New Year’s Eve celebrations at Northstar.  Take a look at the fun in past New Year’s Eve events at Northstar!

Here is the schedule of Free Squaw Valley New Year’s Eve events:

Squaw Valley, New Year’s Eve

  • 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Glow Stick Carnival games for kids of all ages | Funitel Plaza
  • 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Live music with Apple Z | KT Deck
  • 5:15 p.m. Torchlight Parade Starts | Guests load Exhibition for the Torchlight Parade An attempt at the world’s largest torchlight parade (LEDtorches) as they travel the 3.2 mile Mountain Run to break the 3,000+ participant record. 
    • Update:  On December 31, 2018, Squaw Valley reported 2,913 skiers and riders on the mountain for the New Year’s Eve torchlight parade. 

More than enough to break the Guinness World of Records of 2,854 skiers and snowboarders that followed a course between Riggisalp and Schwarzee, Switzerland on January 28, 2006.

Since there wasn’t a representative from Guinness on hand, the official record still stands in Switzerland, and Squaw Valley will hold the unofficial record.

  • 7 p.m. Fireworks at the Village at Squaw Valley |  Best viewing at the KT Bar area, but if you have a view of the Squaw Valley Ski Resort mountain, you’ll have a great view of the firework show.  The firework photos on this blog have been taken at the back of the parking lot of the Village, so you’ll get a great show.
  • Conditions and Weather Permitting
  • 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Family Friendly New York New Year’s Eve Party at Olympic House | Bar One & Plaza Bar
  • 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. | Rock-N-OVL Concert | Olympic Valley Lodge (OVL) – Ticketed event $30/advance purchase and $40 at the door must be 21+ age

If you can’t be here for New Year’s Eve celebrations this year, don’t forget, every Saturday through the end of February 2020, they will be doing a Saturday Winter fireworks show starting at 7 p.m., so you can enjoy a bit of holiday magic all winter (weather permitting) long! 

Looking for something more traditional?  There are local restaurants and bars in the area that will also be having special New Year’s Eve events, but if you’re looking for free entertainment these three events are an easy and fun way to bring in the new year and the new decade.

Remember if you drink, don’t drive.  Check out the Tahoe area bus system  for their expanded night service for a safe ride home.

See you at one of the North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area New Year’s Eve celebrations on December 31, 2019!

Be safe!  Have fun! Happy New Year Everyone!

In my opinion, our holidays (winter and summer) here in the greater North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area are the best!  It’s just one of the many reasons we love living here!

Thinking about making Northstar your second home?  Check out these mountain homes that are for sale in Northstar here:

Want to see what Northstar condos or townhomes are available for sale?  Check out the current listings here:

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, CA

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

New Year’s Eve North Lake Tahoe – Truckee December 31, 2019

Tahoe City Shortest Day of the Year Saturday December 21 2019

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Tahoe City Shortest Day of the Year, Saturday, December 21, 2019

It’s here, the shortest day of the year in Tahoe City, Saturday, December 21, 2019!

Yes, I am one of those people that loves the longer days of sunshine.

After Saturday, we start adding precious minutes of daylight back, and I can’t wait for it to start happening!

Sunset will be at 4:41 p.m. and knowing that on Sunday we begin the slow, but steady process of adding more daylight back into each day is welcome news!

Saturday, December 21, 2019 marks the winter solstice and the official beginning of the 2019-2020 winter season. 

We’ve had snow on the ground for almost a month now, so it has felt like winter for some time, but this is the official change from Fall to Winter!

For those of you that long for more sunshine, after today, each day will become just a little bit longer and in the Tahoe City area, it just shy of two (2) minutes a day (yes, I’m rounding up).  It won’t be long before another season will be here.

For those keeping track, the longest day of the year will be on Saturday, June 20, 2020. 

  • That’s only 183 days, or 4,392 hours, or 263,520 minutes, from today! 
  • End of this decade Tuesday, December 31, 2019, just 10 days left.
  • The beginning of a new year, Wednesday, January 1, 2020, at the stroke of midnight only 11 days from today  
  • It’s Leap Year – February 29, 2020 is only 70 days away.  Have you made plans for your extra day this year?
  • Ready for the next time change to Spring Forward and lose an hour, but gain more daylight at the end of the day?  Sunday, March 8, 2020, just  78 days away.

So much to do, between now and any of these dates that will mark the passage of time. So enjoy the holidays, make plans to bring in the New Year in style, and get ready to enjoy an amazing winter season here in the greater North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area!

Ready to make Tahoe City, California your second home?  Check out what is for sale here:

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, CA

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

Tahoe City Shortest Day of the Year Saturday, December 21, 2019

Thanksgiving Dining Options North Lake Tahoe – 2019

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Thanksgiving Dining Options North Lake Tahoe – 2019

Thanksgiving Day 2019 is almost here.

If you will be in the greater North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area for the upcoming holiday, you may be looking for some dining out options for Thanksgiving Day – Thursday, November 28, 2019.

Not everyone wants to cook and be in the kitchen on Thanksgiving day/

If you find yourself in that situation, here are some local North Lake Tahoe – Truckee dinning options.

This is not meant as a complete list, but it is a list of places I was able to confirm that would be open for Thanksgiving Day!

Some places may be already sold out and others are now taking names on a wait-list, so keep dialing until you find a place that will take your reservations!

Here are some restaurant Thanksgiving Day dinner dining options for the greater North Lake Tahoe – 2019:

I’m sure there are more options in our area, but these restaurants and the Community Thanksgiving event are great local choices, and are a good bet for a nice holiday meal.

While I am still trying to figure out what we will do for the holiday – cook at home, or make Thanksgiving Day Dinner Reservations some where here in the North Lake Tahoe area too.

If you’re thinking about dining out this year you will need to call now to check on reservation availability and menu options as soon as possible. 

If you’re reading this, you might start thinking about your Christmas Day, or New Year’s Eve dinner reservations now, as those holiday event days book up quickly too.

Lastly, remember if your first choice is gone, don’t get discouraged, keep on calling, someone is going to have room for you.

Have a safe and happy holiday!

Gobble, Gobble!  Dining options for Thanksgiving Day in North Lake Tahoe, California on Thursday, November 23, 2017!

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:

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, CA

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

Thanksgiving Dining Options North Lake Tahoe – 2019