Just 200 miles northeast of San Francisco lies a year-round playground called Lake Tahoe. So whether it’s views of snow-capped mountains or deep blue alpine lakes that do it for you, Lake Tahoe has it all. A haven for skiiers, snowboarders, snowshoers alike, Tahoe is home to Palisades ski resort (previously Squaw Valley), the 1960 Winter Olympics host, Alpine Meadows, Heavenly Valley, and more, with altitudes between 5,000 and 10,000 feet.
In the summer, the generous shoreline and trail system lends itself to hiking, backpacking, mountain biking and, of course, getting out on the water—be that paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, fishing, boating, yatching, or scuba diving. However, don’t be fooled by the light blues — especially in Emerald Bay — the water looks deceivingly tropical, but is fed by snow melt.
Tahoe offers over 500 restaurants and a wide range of accommodations — from small hotels that dot the area, especially at King’s Beach, to the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe at Northstar offers ski-in, ski-out rooms.
*Things change, so please check in with the organizers of these events for details.
January
Ring in the new year with live music, alpenglow, the Tahoe Adventure Film Festival, and the magic of Tahoe’s snowy peaks. You can’t go wrong with a visit to Tahoe in January.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in January here.
February
Lake Tahoe skiing is in full swing, so the majority of events in Lake Tahoe are going to be in and around the South Lake Tahoe casinos.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in February here.
April
In front of sold-out crowds, WinterWonderGrass takes place in a comfortable venue at the base of the ski mountain and features over 20 different artists.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in April here.
May
The birds are chirping, the sun is warming and the snow is melting. Basically, spring is here and with it farmer’s markets, outdoor concerts, and festivals.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in May here.
June
Aside from amazing events and activities, Tahoe City’s Solstice Festival attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy convenient lake access, award-winning artists, wonderful restaurants, charming shops, and galleries.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in June here.
July
Somewhere between 75,000 and 100,000 people will visit Tahoe South to celebrate our nation’s Independence Day with Lights on the Lake Fireworks, the largest synchronized fireworks display west of the Mississippi.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in July here.
August
The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival brings the bard to life on the shores of Lake Tahoe. Performing a series of Shakespeare classics and introducing more contemporary works, audience members take their seats on the beach overlooking the gorgeous.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in August here.
September
The Lake Tahoe Autumn Food & Wine Festival is the premier 3-day food and wine event in the region. Expect cooking classes, wine tastings, outdoor adventures, and the finale Grand Tasting.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in September here.
October
Celebrating Halloween in North Lake Tahoe, California can be a spooky yet exciting time to vacation with your family. Here’s a list of amusing things to do in North Lake Tahoe during Halloween.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in October here.
November
Ideally located in the heart of Lake Tahoe’s South Shore in the Heavenly Village, the Heavenly Village ice skating rink is perfect for the entire family. Kids can ice skate while parents go shopping or enjoy great restaurants.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in November here.
December
Many of the celebrations are kid-friendly, so bring the whole family to Lake Tahoe for New Year’s fun. Note: local guidelines vary depending on if you’re on the California side of the border or the Nevada side.
Read more about the best things to do in Tahoe in December here.
Event Venues
Looking to see what’s happening right now in Tahoe? Our comprehensive list of venues across the city below will help you find what you need to know what’s going on.
Music Venues
Theaters
More Local Favorites in Tahoe
Looking for more things to do in the area?
Visit our What to Do in Northern California page!
