Winter is here in Tahoe/Truckee, and everyone’s ready to celebrate. From a local film fest to holiday celebrations like Breakfast with Santa, the Festival of Winter Lights, and festive celebrations, there’s lots happening this month that you won’t want to miss. So grab your warm winter wear and head out for some fun!
Feature photo courtesy of Katey Hamill.
North Lake Tahoe
Northstar Village Ice Skating Rink
Located in the heart of the Village at Northstar, the 9,000 square foot skating rink is the perfect ending to your day on the mountains. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail or two by the outdoor fire pits surrounding the rink or take a few laps to burn off any left-over energy. The skating rink is free for all, and for those who do not have skates, rentals are available.
More info: Northstar Village
Tahoe Film Fest
Dec. 4-7, 2025
This 10th annual film festival showcases a diverse range of new films celebrating art, nature and human potential. This year’s entries include classics like Elia Kazan’s “On the Waterfront,” to stop motion animation “Memoir of a Snail.” The films are shown at the Northstar Village Cinemas, Incline Village Cinema, and the Crystal Bay Casino. All proceeds from Tahoe Film Fest benefit UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center.
More info: tahoefilmfest.com
Snowshoe Tour + Chalet Dinner
Dec. 20, 26, 27, 2025 -- Jan. 23-24, 2026 -- Feb. 13, 14, 28, 2026
Join a guided snowshoe tour to the mid-mountain Chalet at Alpine Meadows where you’ll enjoy a four-course Bavarian inspired meal. In addition, guests will also receive a complimentary drink at last chair bar before heading up, a glass of champagne upon arrival to the Chalet, and there will be beer and wine available for purchase. Snowshoes are provided free of charge; just bring warm clothes and your appetite. Guests must be 21+ years of age to attend. Make your reservations at least one week in advance to confirm a spot on this exclusive dining experience, which usually lasts around 3 and 1/2 hours.
More info: palisadestahoe.com
South Lake Tahoe
Breakfast with Santa at Heavenly
Dec. 6, 13, 20, 2025, 8 a.m. and 9 a.m.
Start your day by getting into the holiday spirit over breakfast with Santa himself! Share what’s on your wish list and pose for pics with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Fire and Ice Restaurant in Heavenly Village. Grab your tickets in advance, as they’re expected to sell out. Tickets are $20 for kids and $30 for adults.
More info: Tickets
Festival of Winter Lights
Dec. 12-13, 2025
The City of South Lake Tahoe, in partnership with the Lake Tahoe Historical Society, hosts this free, two-night, outdoor holiday market-style event, featuring live music, singing, dancing, sleigh rides, a Christmas fire truck, light displays, local vendors, food and drink, tours of the museum and cabin, and of course, Santa!
More info: cityofslt.us
Truckee
Festive Fridays
Dec. 6, 13, 20, 2025, 4 to 7 p.m.
Get in the holiday spirit with this festive event under the twinkling holiday lights in downtown Truckee. Don’t miss the Snowflake Scavenger Hunt, date night sip and shop, visits with Santa and more.
More info: historictruckee.com
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
Looking for more things to do in the area?
Visit our What to Do in Northern California page!