SnowFest 2018 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival        

The 37th Annual SnowFest 2018 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival will start their ten days of winter fun this week.

I know I sound like a broken record, but it is true, this is one of my favorite, if not the number one favorite event that we have in the North Lake Tahoe, California area.

We are fortunate to have so many free local events in both of our peak seasons.

Snowfest! in the winter, and in the summer we have free outdoor movies, concerts, and street fairs and festivals like Truckee Thursdays.

So much to do and enjoy in the North Lake Tahoe – Truckee area, we are a resort area for all seasons!

SnowFest has been voted as one of the best annual events each and every year, and this year promises to be one of the best events with old favorites returning and several new events making their debut.

SnowFest! 2018 kicks off on Thursday, March 1, 2018 with the Kick-off Party and Snow Queen Coronation and will end on Sunday, March 11, 2018 with the annual River Ranch Snow Sculpture Contest.

If you are new to the area, this annual event began back in the spring of 1982.  It has become the place to be in the North Lake Tahoe area with ten days of winter events, and activities for everyone!

You may not know that Tahoe’s SnowFest has become one of the largest winter carnival events in the western United States and is a great way for everyone to celebrate our snow, our winter sports season and the beginning of Spring Skiing.

The North Lake Tahoe snow festival event planners are busy all year-long to make this winter experience that keeps bringing people back to the North Lake Tahoe area year-after-year.

Returning for the second year in a row will be the fireworks show on Friday night at Commons Beach in downtown Tahoe City beginning at 7:30 p.m.  Don’t be late for this one.  There is something special about seeing firework over Lake Tahoe and with snow on the ground, it’s a special experience.

You’ll find that the schedule continues to offer fewer multiple events occurring at the same time allowing everyone to be at just about every event without having to miss out on another event.

SnowFest will begin this year on Thursday, March 1, 2018 at Gar Woods Grill and Pier in Carnelian Bay.

Tickets are $35 at the door, and will get you into this SnowFest Opening Ceremonies 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 Tahoe City – Truckee, North Lake Tahoe, California 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 in Commons Beach.   A fireworks show in North Lake Tahoe is always a must see event!

Even though the Winter Saturday Night Squaw Valley Fireworks show is not part of the official SnowFest events schedule, you should put it on your to-do list.  Starting this past January, there has been a fireworks show at the Village at Squaw Valley on Saturday evenings.  In March that show will start at 7 p.m.  Again, don’t late as these shows are not long, but why wait until the 4th of July, so check it out!

Next on my list is the annual Tahoe City Parade, which will happen on Saturday, March 3, 2018.

This is small town living at its very best.  It is a great reminder that communities have heart and can be seen in the local traditions it celebrates 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.
• Wear sunscreen to protect your skin.  The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with sunshine with temperatures in the low 40’s.
• Dress in layers so you can adjust to meet the sunshine, shade, and a breeze if we get one.
• Bring water
• if you bring your Fido, be sure they are on a lease. 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 you’ll need to check out the 30th Annual classic Polar Bear Swim at Gar Wood’s in Carnelian Bay.

This is an event that you won’t believe 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, and you’ll be impressed with those swimmers that actually finish the race.  A must see SnowFest event.

One of the keys to a successful SnowFest week is to pace yourself! On Saturday, March 3 you’ll need to pace yourself so you’re ready for more fun on Sunday, March 4, 2018 with 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 Truckee River Winery Wine n’ Ice Competition (Wine N’Ice), BINGO at Rosie’s Cafe, or the 10th Annual Bridgetender’s Ribfest.

If you can’t be in North Lake Tahoe on the opening weekend of SnowFest! 2018, you’ll get a second chance the following weekend to enjoy the NTPUD pancake breakfast, see another SnowFest parade in downtown Kings Beach on Saturday, March 10, 2018.

On Sunday, March 11, 2018 SnowFest will come to an end and if you haven’t checked out either the Tahoe Donner Iditarun 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.

There is so much fun just waiting for you here in North Lake Tahoe and SnowFest 2018 is just one of our annual events that keeps bringing people back to our area year-after-year!

SnowFest 2018 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival Events Schedule:

Thursday, March 1, 2018 

• 5:00 p.m. – 8 p.m. Opening Ceremonies & Queen Coronation at Gar Wood’s in Carnelian Bay, CA (5000 North Lake Blvd.) $35 at the door.  Queen coronation, beverages, heavy appetizers, and live music with Groove Foundry!
• Multiple Day event:  Begins 5:00 p.m. Thursday, March 1 and end Sunday, March 11, 2018 –  TCDA’s Selfie Scavenger Hunt  Participants must tag a selfie inside as many TCDA businesses as they can. The individual with the most businesses visited and tagged will win an ultimate Tahoe City Summer Event Package! Members of the TCDA can be found at: http://business.visittahoecity.org/list/. For more details, contact info@visittahoecity.com.

Friday, March 2, 2018 

• 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.   Blue Agave’s Blake-Apalooza & Fireworks Show, hosted by The Blue Agave (425 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA) Apres SkiBlake-Apalooza is a social tribute to the legacy of local legend and friend to all of Tahoe City, “Blake Beeman.”   An evening of music, food, and fun.  Join the celebration, and enjoy an awesome view of the fireworks!
• 7:30 p.m. SnowFest Fireworks Spectacular 2018 – Commons Beach Downtown Tahoe City – You’ll be able to see the fireworks anywhere you can see downtown Tahoe City. This event is Free, but be on time, so you don’t miss anything.

Saturday, March 3, 2018

• 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 Cheveron Station in Downtown Tahoe City), Fundraiser for the Firefighter’s Association who works with the NT Fire District.  Cost:  Kids $5 | Adults $8
• 11:30  a.m. – 12:30 noon Parade Watching Party at Blue Agave downtown Tahoe City, CA – Annoucing, viewing and judging
• 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 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 phone, or camera has a full charge.  Bring folding chairs, dress in layers, and wear sun screen so you’ll enjoy the event!

• 12:30 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 miners.
• 12:30 p.m. – 3 Tahoe Community Nursery School Winter Party & Fundraiser at The Boatworks Mall 760 Norht Lake Blvd #2, Tahoe City, CA.  Fundraiser for the Tahoe Community Nursery School.
• 12:30 p.m. Paint the Snowman (Crafts) – 380 North Lake Blvd, North Tahoe Arts, Tahoe City, CA North Tahoe Arts will Paint the Snowman! Children are invited to come to North Tahoe Arts and paint wooden cutouts of snowmen. Free event.
• 1 p.m. 2nd Annual Snowball Drop Fundraiser sponsored by the North Tahoe PTO – Tahoe City Golf Course|Winter Park  251 North Lake Blvd, downtown Tahoe City, CA.  Snowballs are sold in advance by the 5th -12th grade Tahoe City Students and benefit North Tahoe PTO – all ages.  Grand prize $1,000

Pre-purchase snowballs (numbered ping pong balls) for only $10/each for
a chance to win the Snowball Drop!

1st Place Grand Prize is $1,000 (sponsored by the Lakehouse Mall Property Management, Inc./The Motamedi Family). 2nd Place Prize is $100. Snowballs 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.

Please include the student’s name and grade in the comments when purchasing your snowballs.

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.

• 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 30th Annual Gar Woods Polar Bear Swim, Gar Woods (5000 North Lake Blvd., Carnelian Bay, CA.) Swimmer registration beginning at 1:30 p.m. Race at 2:30 p.m. Call 530-546-3366 for more information on the race, or for more information.  Must be 18+ or older to race.  Watch swimmers swim out to the buoys (about 250 yards) before heading back to the restaurant.  Watch from the restaurant, deck, beach, or pier.

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

• 7 p.m. Winter Fireworks Show each Saturday at the Village at Squaw Valley (January, February, and March) – You’ll be able to see the fireworks anywhere you can see the Village and ski resort area.  This event is Free, but be on time!

Sunday, March 4, 2018

• 12 noon The Dog Pull  12 p.m. registration and 1 p.m. race – Behind Plumas Bank in Downtown Tahoe City – The popular Dog Pull 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. 2nd Annual Fat Cat Hot Wing Eating Contest 599 North Lake Blvd. Tahoe City –Hot Wing Eating Contest – prizes!
• 4 p.m. – 9 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 snow flakes fall outside.  Bring on the winter fun!

Monday, March 5, 2018

5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Second Annual Za’s Clam Bake – Za’s, 395 North Lake Blvd., downtown Tahoe City, CA A traditional East Coast Clam Bake including clams, chicken, potatoes, and corn.  Call for pricing.

Tuesday, March 6, 2018

• 7 p.m. – 8 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 $20 per team. Sign up Early as space is limited 530-583-2400

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

• 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Wine ‘n Ice Competition – Truckee River Winery’s Ice Carving Extravaganza – Truckee River Winery, 11567 Brockway Road, Truckee, CA Cost:  $10 Cover (souvenir wine glass, Marti Gras beads, etc…) Proceeds benefit the Truckee River Watershed Council. www.truckeeriverwinery.com

Thursday, March 8, 2018

• 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Willard’s Apres Ski  Willard’s Sport Shop at 170 N Lake Blvd.
  Tahoe City – Do Apres Ski the right way — with snacks, beverages, and great deals throughout the store!
• 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.

• 9 p.m.   11 p.m. Rosie’s Bingo Night – Rosie’s Café, downtown Tahoe City, CA Must be 21+ Cost $5/per card to play at the door, and you can play more than one card!  Great prizes!

Friday, March 10, 2017

• 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. 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.  Pricing available at the event.  A portion of the proceeds will go to the Chris Parks Scholarship Fund.
• 7 p.m. Winter White Out Party – Alibi Ale Works (10069 Bridge St, Truckee) – Bringing the SNOW back to SnowFest! Wear all white for a chance to win awesome prizes. $10.00 suggested donation; benefits SOS Outreach (a national youth development non-profit, gearing kids up for life on and off the slopes).

Saturday, March 10, 2018

• 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. North Tahoe Public Utility District (NTPUD) Pancake Breakfast – North Lake Tahoe Event Center, downtown Kings Beach, CA. Pricing available for Adults and Children at event.
• 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Dress Up Your Dog – Sponsored by NTPUD, Lakeside Plaa 8318 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach.  $10 per dog.  Categories that will be judged include, Best in Show, Looks Most Like Owner, Most Creative!
• 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 a challenge the closer to it gets to parade time.  Make sure your phone, or camera has a full charge.  Bring folding chairs, dress in layers, and wear sun screen so you’ll enjoy the event!

• 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. Get S’more Saturday Snow  Shop, dine and get S’more out of the Kings Beach businesses you love Head to 12 eateries and shops and receive something extra and unexpected; track your visits on a play card; then stroll to the outdoor gathering area to enjoy free S’Mores, heaters and fire pits; plus multiple chances to win raffle prizes valued at $3,000.Participating businesses will offer shoppers and diners something extra and unexpected, such as complimentary beverages and snacks, free appetizer or specialty menu items, complimentary balloon animals, artist demos, and more.

Sunday, March 11, 2018

• 12 noon – 1 p.m. 14th 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.  Event raises money for the Humane Society of Tahoe-Truckee – all ages are welcome – different dog categories.
• 12 noon  River Ranch Annual Snow Sculpture Contest, River Ranch, Hwy 89 South at the entrance to Alpine Meadows, CA  29th Annual snow sculpture contest.  Entry fee to build a sculpture, but Free Admission to see the entries.  Cost on any food or beverage items purchased.

Get ready to have a lot of fun regardless of the weather conditions.  SnowFest  only happens once a year, and this is one of my favorite events that happens here in the greater Lake Tahoe area!  Have some fun, make some memories, come to Lake Tahoe!

 To check for updates, or more information on events check out the SnowFest 2018 schedule here, or better yet plan to be here in Lake Tahoe and have some winter fun!

See you at some of the SnowFest 2018 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:

• Tahoe City Homes for Sale
• Tahoe City Condos for Sale
• Tahoe City Lakefront Homes for Sale
• Lake Tahoe Lakefront Homes for Sale
• North Shore Lake Tahoe Homes for Sale
• West Shore Lake Tahoe Homes 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, CA CalRE#01908304

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

SnowFest 2018 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival

SnowFest 2017 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival          

It’s here, SnowFest 2017 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival will start its 36th annual ten days of crazy winter fun here in North Lake Tahoe, California area this March 3 – 12, 2017!

This is one of my favorite winter events in the Lake Tahoe – Truckee area, and I’m not alone on this as SnowFest has been voted as one of the best annual events.

After several drought years with disappointing winter snow falls, this year will make you forget that ever happened with our massive snow fall that still covers the area.  This is one SnowFest week you won’t want to miss.

This annual event, which began back in the spring of 1982, has become the place to be in the North Lake Tahoe area with ten days and nights of exciting fun winter events, and activities for everyone!

You may not know that Tahoe’s SnowFest has become one of the largest winter carnival events in the western United States and is a great way for everyone to celebrate.

The North Lake Tahoe snow festival event planners are busy all year-long to make this winter experience that keeps bringing people back to the North Lake Tahoe area year-after-year.

This year SnowFest 2017 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival has made a few changes to the schedule and you’ll find that the fireworks show is now on Friday night at Commons Beach in downtown Tahoe City at 8:30 p.m.

You’ll find that the schedule continues to offer fewer multiple events occurring at the same time allowing everyone to be at just about every event without having to miss out on another scheduled event.

SnowFest will begin this year on Thursday, March 23, 2017 at Gar Woods Grill and Pier in Carnelian Bay. Tickets are $35 at the door, and will get you into this SnowFest Opening Ceremonies 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 Tahoe City – Truckee, North Lake Tahoe, California 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 show.  In the past this has been at Squaw Valley, but this year they will be held on Friday night in downtown Tahoe City in Commons Beach.   A fireworks show in North Lake Tahoe is always a must see event!

Next on my list is the annual Tahoe City Parade, which will happen on Saturday, March 4, 2017.

This is small town living at its very best and it a great reminder that a sense of community is often found in the local traditions it celebrates like the annual SnowFest parade in downtown Tahoe City.

A couple of parade watching tips – bring your own folding chairs and arrive early so you can get yourself a good parade watching spot.  Wear sunscreen to protect your skin.  The weather is expected to be partly cloudy with sunshine with temperatures in the low 40’s.

Dress in layers so you can adjust to meet the sunshine, shade, and a breeze if we get one.  Bring water, and if you bring your Fido, be sure they are on a lease, and 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 you’ll need to check out the 28^nd Annual classic Polar Bear Swim at Gar Wood’s in Carnelian Bay.

This is an event that you won’t believe 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, and you’ll be impressed with those swimmers that actually finish the race.  A must see SnowFest event.

Pacing is the key to success in attending as many SnowFest events as possible, so on Saturday, March 4 you’ll need to pace yourself so you’re ready for more fun on Sunday, March 5, 2017 with 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 Truckee River Winery Wine n’ Ice Competition (Wine N’Ice), BINGO at Rosie’s Cafe, or the Girl’s night out Bunco Bash on Wednesday, March 8, 2017, which is always a sell out.

If you can’t be in North Lake Tahoe on the opening weekend of SnowFest 2017, you’ll get a second chance the following weekend to enjoy the NTPUD pancake breakfast, see another SnowFest parade in downtown Kings Beach on Saturday.

On Sunday, March 12, 2017 SnowFest will come to an end and if you haven’t checked out either the Tahoe Donner Iditarun 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.

There is so much fun just waiting for you here in North Lake Tahoe and SnowFest 2017 is just one of our annual events that keeps bringing people back to our area year-after-year!

Check out a few of the past SnowFest Lake Tahoe Snow Festival Event highlights here in this video with Laura Allen, Tahoe REALTOR:

Here’s a detailed look at the upcoming SnowFest 2017 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival Events Schedule:

Thursday, March 2, 2017 

5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. Opening Ceremonies & Queen Coronation at Gar Wood’s in Carnelian Bay, CA (5000 North Lake Blvd.) $35 at the door.  Queen coronation, live music, and more!

Friday, March 3, 2017 

4 p.m. Willards (170 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA) Apres Ski

8:30 p.m. SnowFest Fireworks Spectacular 2017 – Commons Beach Downtown Tahoe City – You’ll be able to see the fireworks anywhere you can see downtown Tahoe City. This event is Free, but be on time, so you don’t miss anything.

Saturday, March 4, 2017

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 Cheveron Station in Downtown Tahoe City), Fundraiser for the Firefighter’s Association who works with the NT Fire District.

11 a.m. – 12 noon Paint the Snowman (Crafts) – 380 North Lake Blvd, North Tahoe Arts, Tahoe City, CA

11:30  a.m. – 12:30 noon Parade Watching Party at Blue Agave downtown Tahoe City, CA

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Tahoe City SnowFest Parade – downtown Tahoe City, CA – Free

Parade Day Tip – Get to the parade early as parking and access to the downtown area becomes a challenge the closer to it gets to parade time and you know you don’t want to miss a minute of the fun.  Bring folding chairs, dress in layers, and wear sun screen so you’ll enjoy the event!

12:30 p.m. – 1:30 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 miners.

12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. TCNS Winter Party Silent Auction & Raffle, Moe’s Original Bar B Que at 120 Grove Street, downtown Tahoe City, CA.  Fundraiser for the Tahoe Community Nursery School.

1 p.m. – 2 p.m. First Annual Snowball Drop – Tahoe City Golf Course|Winter Park  251 North Lake Blvd, downtown Tahoe City, CA.  Snowballs are sold in advance byt the 5th -12th grade Tahoe City Students and benefit North Tahoe PTO – all ages.  Grand prize $1,000

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 27th Annual Gar Woods Polar Bear Swim, Gar Woods (5000 North Lake Blvd., Carnelian Bay, CA.) Festivities begin at 11:30 a.m. with swimmer registration beginning at 1:30 p.m. Race at 2:30 p.m. Call 530-546-3366 for cost to enter the race, or more information.  Must be 18+ or older to race.

Sunday, March 5, 2017

(Not on the official SnowFest Calendar, but an impressive event to watch or be in)

9 a.m. 40th Annual Great Ski Race® – The Great Ski Race® is the main fund raising event for the Tahoe Nordic Search and Rescue Team, a non-profit all-volunteer organization.  The Great Ski Race® is one of the largest Nordic ski races in the Western United States.  The snow conditions are amazing, and this event is one to see.

40^th Annual Great Ski Race®, which will begin at the Tahoe XC Center in Tahoe City, CA and will end up at the Cottonwood Restaurant on the Hilltop in Truckee.  If you want to race, you should register in advance.  For more information, click here.

3 p.m. – 5 p.m. Fat Cat Hot Wing Eating Contest – First Annual competitive Hog Wing Eating Contest – men’s and women heats, 3 minutes to eat as many wings as they can!

4 p.m. – 10 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 snow flakes fall outside.  Bring on the winter fun!

Monday, March 6, 2017

5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Second Annual Za’s Clam Bake – Za’s, 395 North Lake Blvd., downtown Tahoe City, CA A traditional East Coast Clam Bake including clams, chicken, potatoes, and corn.  Call for pricing.

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

7 p.m. – 8 p.m. Pete ‘N Peter’s Bar Game Olympics – Pete ‘N Peter’s, age 21+, Entry Fee, downtown Tahoe City, CA, Sign up Early as space is limited 530-583-2400

Wednesday, March 8, 2017

12 noon – 7 p.m. 2014 Wine ‘n Ice Competition – Truckee River Winery’s Ice Carving Extravaganza – Truckee River Winery, 11567 Brockway Road, Truckee, CA Cost:  $10 Cover (souvenir wine glass, Marti Gras beads, etc…) Proceeds benefit the Truckee River Watershed Council.

5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. SnowFest Bunco Bash – Girls Night Out North Tahoe Event Center, Kings Beach, CA To purchase tickest on-line at  get tickets on-line put in “snowfest”   or cash only sales at Truckee Visitor Center in Kings Beach, or The Store in Tahoe City.  If there are any tickets left (this has been a sell-out event) cash tickets at the door, must be 21+ or older.

9 p.m. 11 p.m. Rosie’s Bingo Night – Rosie’s Café, downtown Tahoe City, CA Cost $5/per card to play at the door, and you can play more than one card!  Great prizes!

Thursday, March 9, 2017

7 p.m. 8 p.m. Black Beeman Pay it Forward Music Festival, Blue Agave, downtown Tahoe City, CA 425 North Lake Blvd., Music and social tribute to the legacy of local legend and friend Black Beeman.

Friday, March 10, 2017

5 p.m. – 8 p.m. 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.  Pricing available at the event.

Saturday, March 11, 2017

8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. North Tahoe Public Utility District (NTPUD) Pancake Breakfast – North Lake Tahoe Event Center, downtown Kings Beach, CA Pricing available for Adults and Children at event.

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 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.

12 noon. – 1 p.m. Chili Cook Off  – Kings Beach Library, 301 Secline Beach, Kings Beach, CA

 

Sunday, March 12, 2017

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.  River Ranch Annual Snow Sculpture Contest, River Ranch, Hwy 89 South at the entrance to Alpine Meadows, CA  29th Annual snow sculpture contest.  Entry fee to build a sculpture, but Free Admission to see the entries.  Cost on any food or beverage items purchased.

12 noon – 1 p.m. Tahoe Donner Ididarun – 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.  Raffle proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Tahoe-Truckee – all ages are welcome – different dog categories.

Get ready to have a lot of fun regardless of the weather conditions.  SnowFest  only happens once a year, and this is one of my favorite events that happens here in the greater Lake Tahoe area!  Have some fun, make some memories, come to Lake Tahoe!

 To check for updates, or more information on events check out the SnowFest 2017 schedule here, or better yet plan to be here in Lake Tahoe and have some winter fun!

See you at some of the SnowFest 2017 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:

• Tahoe City Homes for Sale
• Tahoe City Condos for Sale
• Tahoe City Lakefront Homes for Sale
• Lake Tahoe Lakefront Homes for Sale
• North Shore Lake Tahoe Homes for Sale
• West Shore Lake Tahoe Homes 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, CA CalRE#01908304

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

SnowFest 2017 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival

SnowFest 2016 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival          

It’s here! SnowFest 2016 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival will start its 35th year of ten crazy days of winter fun here in North Lake Tahoe, California area this Thursday, March 3, 2016 .

This is my favorite winter event in the Lake Tahoe – Truckee area, and I’m not alone on this as SnowFest has been voted as one of the best annual events up here.  It’s one you won’t want to miss out on.

This annual event, which began back in the spring of 1982, has become the place to be in the North Lake Tahoe area with ten days and nights of exciting fun winter events, and activities for everyone!

You may not know that Tahoe’s SnowFest has become one of the largest winter carnival events in the western United States.

The North Lake Tahoe snow festival event planners are busy all year-long to make this winter experience that keeps bringing people back to the North Lake Tahoe area year-after-year.

This year SnowFest 2016 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival has made a few changes to the schedule and you’ll find that the fireworks show is now on Saturday night instead of being done on Friday night, which I think is great for our second home owners and visitors that are coming up for the SnowFest Saturday and Sunday events.

You’ll find that there are fewer multiple events occurring at the same time allowing everyone to be at just about every event without having to miss out on another scheduled event.

SnowFest will begin this year on Thursday, March 3, 2016 at Gar Woods Grill and Pier in Carnelian Bay. Tickets are $35 at the door, gets you into this SnowFest Opening Ceremonies 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 Tahoe City – Truckee, North Lake Tahoe, California 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 annual Tahoe City Parade, which will happen on Saturday, March 5, 2016.

This is small town living at its very best and it a great reminder that a sense of community is often found in the local traditions it celebrates like the annual SnowFest parade in downtown Tahoe City.

A couple of parade watching tips – bring your own folding chairs and arrive early so you can get yourself a good parade watching spot.

Wear sunscreen to protect your skin.  Wear layers so you can adjust to meet the sunshine, shade, and a breeze.  Bring water, and if you bring Fido, be sure they are on a lease, bring plastic bags to pick up after them, and be prepared for loud noises.  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 you’ll need to check out the 27^nd Annual classic Polar Bear Swim at Gar Wood’s in Carnelian Bay.  This is an event that you won’t believe 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, and you’ll be impressed with those swimmers that actually finish the race.  A must see SnowFest event.

This year you’ll end your Saturday with the fireworks show at the Village at Squaw Valley, which will start at 7 p.m.  My advice on this event is to dress warmly, get there early, and bring along a folding chair so you’ll have seating where ever you end up watching this event.  We’ve watched it in the Village, in the Village Parking lot, and from other location in the Olympic Valley area and it’s a beautiful sight to see those exploding colors over the snow-covered ground.

Pacing is the key to success in attending as many SnowFest events as possible, so on Saturday, March 5 you’ll need to pace yourself so you’re ready for more fun on Sunday, March 6, 2016 with the Dog Pull Contest, and 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 Truckee River Winery Wine and Ice Competition (Wine N’Ice), BINGO at Rosie’s Cafe, or the Girl’s night out Bunco Bash on Wednesday, March 9, 2016, which is always a sell out.

If you can’t be in North Lake Tahoe on the opening weekend of SnowFest 2016, you’ll get a second chance the following weekend to enjoy the NTPUD pancake breakfast, see another SnowFest parade in downtown Kings Beach on Saturday along with checking out the Homewood Winter Wonder Film Festival (new this year) on their big outdoor movie screen.

On Sunday, March 13, 2016 SnowFest will come to an end so close the week out with the River Ranch Snow Sculpture Contest in Alpine Meadows, or enjoy an afternoon of skiing, dinner and a movie with the premiere of the Skidafilmiddag event in Tahoe City on Sunday, March 13, 2016.

There is so much fun just waiting for you here in North Lake Tahoe and SnowFest 2016 is just one of our annual events that keeps bringing people back to our area year-after-year!

Check out a few of the SnowFest Lake Tahoe Snow Festival Event highlights here in this video with Laura Allen, Tahoe REALTOR:

Here’s a detailed look at the upcoming SnowFest 2016 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival Events Schedule:

Thursday, March 3, 2016 

5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Opening Ceremonies & Queen Coronation at Gar Wood’s in Carnelian Bay, CA (5000 North Lake Blvd.) $35 at the door.  Queen coronation, live music, and more!

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.  North Tahoe Visitor Center  (100 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City)  Meet the 4-Legged Heroes of Winter:  Squaw Valley Rescue Dogs – Come meet the dogs, take a photo and donate $5 each to support the Squaw Valley Avalanche Rescue og and Education Fund.

Friday, March 4, 2016 

4 p.m. Willards (170 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, CA) Wine, Cheese, & S’mores – Stop by before heading to the Rib Cook Off at the Bridgetender.

5 p.m. – 8 p.m. 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.  Pricing available at the event.

Saturday, March 5, 2016

8 a.m. – 9 a.m. Pancake Breakfast by the Tahoe City Fire Department (North Tahoe Firefighter’s Association) – 159 Observation Drive (North Tahoe Fire Station 54) Dollar Point, Tahoe City, $15 per person

11 a.m. – 12 noon Paint the Bear Paint the Bear (Crafts) – North Tahoe Arts, Tahoe City, CA, Free

11 a.m. – 12 noon Parade Watching Party at Blue Agave, or Rosie’s Café, downtown Tahoe City, CA

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Tahoe City SnowFest Parade – downtown Tahoe City, CA – Free

Parade Day Tip – Get to the parade early as parking and access to the downtown area becomes a challenge the closer to it gets to parade time and you know you don’t want to miss a minute of the fun.  Bring folding chairs, dress in layers, and wear sun screen so you’ll enjoy the event!

12 noon – 1 p.m. Pete ’n Peters Post Parade Party, downtown Tahoe City, CA

12:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. Mobility Rock Bank in the parking lot of Pete ’n Peters, part of the Post Parade Party, downtown Tahoe City, CA.  The Mobility Rock Band is from Travis AFB, so come out and have some fun.

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 27th Annual Gar Woods Polar Bear Swim, Gar Woods (5000 North Lake Blvd., Carnelian Bay, CA.) Festivities begin at 11:30 a.m. with swimmer registration beginning at 1:30 p.m. Race at 2:30 p.m. Call 530-546-3366 for cost to enter the race, or more information.  Must be 18+ or older to race.

7 p.m. – 9 p.m. SnowFest Cocktail BINGO-Truckee, Truckee Community Arts Center (10046 Church Street, Truckee, CA.) Contact Cassie Hebel 530-277-1302 for more information and cost.

7 p.m. -8 p.m. SnowFest Fireworks Spectacular 2016 This event has taken place on Friday evenings, so I’m excited to that event organizers have moved to Saturday night when so many of our SnowFest event goers and visitors are here to see it!  You’ll be able to see the fireworks anywhere you can see the mountain, but the best viewing area will be at the Base of Squaw Valley at the KT-22 Deck Area at the Village in Squaw Valley. This event is Free, but be on time, so you don’t miss anything.

Sunday, March 6, 2015

9 a.m. The Great Ski Race Returns -The Great Ski Race, will begin at the Tahoe XC Center (925 Country Club Drive) in Tahoe City, CA and ending up in Truckee, CA.  This has been the largest fund-raiser in the past for the Tahoe Search and Rescue organization, so even if you don’t cross country ski, you can still donate.  Arrive early to see this sight as they take off, or arrive at the finish line to cheer the skiers as they complete the race!

10 a.m. – 12 noon Wacky Winter Bowling Tahoe City Winter Sports Park (Tahoe City Golf Course – downtown Tahoe City) Cost $15/person.

12 noon – 1 p.m.  SnowFest Dog Sled Pull Tah0e Winter Sports Park (Tahoe City Golf Court 251 North Lake Blvd. behind BofA Building)  – Sign-up’s start at 11 a.m. and dogs of all breeds, size, and shapes are encouraged to pull the sled across snow (or grass).  Cost is $10 per dog.

1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Granlibakken’s Gone “Bonkers” Ski & Board Race – Any Age Entry fee $20/advance $25/day of Race. Competition at the Granlibakken Ski Resort (725 Granlibakken Road), Tahoe City, CA.  If there is no snow, they will have an alternate family fun event for all ages.  Prices will be adjusted if there is no snow.

4 p.m. – 10 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 snow flakes fall outside.  Bring on the winter fun!

Monday, March 7, 2016

Deadline for Video Submission for the Homewoood Winter Wonder Festival   Calling all film makers – here’s your chance to submit your own video for your chance to win cash prizes and have your film shown on Homewood’s large outdoor airscreen on Saturday, March 12, 2016 from 6 -8 p.m..  All films must be 3-5 minutes long and have a winter theme such as sledding, ice skating, dog sledding, skiing, well you get the idea.  Submissions are being accepted between Feb 1 through March 7 and all entries must be filmed in the Lake Tahoe Region.

There will be two categories 17 and under in age, and 18 and over in age.  Great prizes with 1st place taking home $500! Cost:  $40 early bird regristration until 2/29 and $55/regristration fee 03/01 – 03/07   There are additional film entry details so call for more information at 530-525-2922, which is the main menu and talk to guest services or email them at guestservices@SkiHomewood.com 

5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Second Annual Za’s Clam Bake – Za’s, 395 North Lake Blvd., downtown Tahoe City, CA A traditional East Coast Clam Bake including clams, chicken, potatoes, and corn.  Call for pricing.

Tuesday, March 8, 2016

7 p.m. – 8 p.m. Pete ‘N Peter’s Bar Game Olympics – Pete ‘N Peter’s, age 21+, $10 Entry Fee, downtown Tahoe City, CA, Sign up Early as space is limited 530-583-2400

Wednesday, March 9, 2016

1 p.m. – 7 p.m. 2014 Wine ‘n Ice Competition – Truckee River Winery’s Ice Carving Extravaganza – Truckee River Winery, 11567 Brockway Road, Truckee, CA Cost:  $10 Cover (souvenir wine glass, Marti Gras beads, etc…) Proceeds benefit the High Fives Foundation

6 p.m. – 9 p.m. SnowFest Bunco Bash – Girls Night Out North Tahoe Event Center, Kings Beach, CA $25 on-line at  get tickets on-line,  or cash only sales at Truckee Visitor Center, The Store in Tahoe City, or Rockwood Tree Service in Kings Beach.  If there are any tickets left (this has been a sell-out event) $30 at the door, must be 21+ or older.

All proceeds go to the Tahoe Forest Cancer Center patient programs.

Thursday, March 10, 2016

9 p.m. 11 p.m. Rosie’s Bingo Night – Rosie’s Café, downtown Tahoe City, CA Cost $5/per card to play at the door, and you can play more than one card!  Great prizes!

Friday, March 11, 2016

5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Tahoe Community Nursery School 50th Reunion Boatworks Mall 760 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City.  Event is Free

Saturday, March 12, 2016

8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. North Tahoe Public Utility District (NTPUD) Pancake Breakfast – North Lake Tahoe Event Center, downtown Kings Beach, CA Pricing available for Adults and Children at event.

10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Dress up your Dog Contest – North Tahoe Events Center, downtown Kings Beach, CA There is a fee per entry $10/pet proceeds to benefit Pet Network  For more information Julia at Juliatma@Gmail.com

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 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.

12:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. Snow What? Snow Building and Chili Cook Off  – Kings Beach Library, 301 Secline Beach, Kings Beach, CA  Minimum donation of $5 requested.

3 p.m. – 5 p.m. Queen Raffle Party – Steamers Beach Side Bar & Oven 8290 North Lake Blvd., Kings Beach, CA Come out and find out who the lucky winners were from the SnowFest  Queen Raffles.

6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Homewood Winter Wonder Film Festival, Homewood Mountain Resort – North Lodge – 5145 West Lake Blvd., Homewood, CA  530-525-2992 New this year! Watch local 3-5 minute movies made in the Lake Tahoe area on the big outdoor movie screen at Homewood.  This is a new event and contest this year to the SnowFest 2016 schedule, and it should be a lot of fun!

Sunday, March 13, 2016

12 noon – 1 p.m. Tahoe Donner Ididarun – Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area – 11603 Snowpeak Way, Truckee, CA  – Event sign-ups start at 12 noon and the race starts at 1 p.m.  Event takes about 2 hours.  Raffle proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Tahoe-Truckee – all ages are welcome – different dog categories.

1 p.m. – 5 p.m.  River Ranch Annual Snow Sculpture Contest, River Ranch, Hwy 89 South at the entrance to Alpine Meadows, CA  BBQ an DJ on the patio.  Free Admission, but cost on any food or beverage items.

2:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. Skidafilmiddag, Skiing at Winter Sports Park, followed by dinner and then Movie at Art Haus Cost $39/adults and $21/kids

Get ready to have a lot of fun regardless of the weather conditions.  SnowFest  only happens once a year, and this is one of my favorite events that happens here in the greater Lake Tahoe area!  Have some fun, make some memories, come to Lake Tahoe!

 To check for updates, or more information on events check out the SnowFest 2016 schedule here, or better yet plan to be here in Lake Tahoe and have some winter fun!

See you at some of the SnowFest 2016 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:

• Tahoe City Homes for Sale
• Tahoe City Condos for Sale
• Tahoe City Lakefront Homes for Sale
• Lake Tahoe Lakefront Homes for Sale
• North Shore Lake Tahoe Homes for Sale
• West Shore Lake Tahoe Homes 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, CA CalRE#01908304

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

SnowFest 2016 North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival