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Fall is a truly underrated season in Tahoe. It's a relatively short season, and it might seem like the region is in "hibernation mode" as it transitions from one big season to another. While summer and winter tend to hog the spotlight, fall should not be ignored.
In fact, it should be high on your list. The air has an energizing, crisp feel. The leaves are changing from green to shades of goldenrod and orange. The trails are less crowded. And, if you're brave enough, it's not too cold to go for an afternoon dip in the lake!
There are also quite a few local events happening every week. From locally sourced food festivals and Bavarian beer gardens to adventure-inspired film festivals and regional cleanup and conservation events, there’s something for everyone to partake in.
Below, I have highlighted five upcoming events for you to check out. Enjoy!
Sample the local flavors at Sample the Sierra Farm to Fork Festival. Photo Credit: Sample the Sierra.
Sample the Sierra Farm to Fork Festival
Saturday, September 21
Celebrate and sample South Lake Tahoe’s local chefs, restaurants, food and beverage producers, musicians and artisans at Sample the Sierra’s Farm to Fork Festival this Saturday, September 21.
Enjoyed by both locals and tourists of all ages, this event showcases the unique local flavors and sustainable practices of the Sierra Nevada, including creative gourmet entrees, tapas, wines, craft brews, olive oils, jams and produce. Some of the participating vendors include Becket Tavern, Toulouse, South Lake Brewing Company, Chocolate Shoppe, Tahoe Blue Vodka and Betty’s Balls Tapas.
As you sample the delectable dishes and sip on local craft beverages, stroll through the local artisans’ booths at the Makers Market to check out fine art, handmade jewelry and crafts.
Parking is limited, and you are encouraged to arrive early. You are also highly encouraged to carpool or use public transportation. To further reduce the effects of traffic and promote sustainable transportation, there will be an on-site bike valet, completely free of charge!
Date and Time: Saturday, September 21, 1 to 4 p.m.
Location: Bijou Community Park, South Lake Tahoe
Purchase your tickets and get more information here.
Tahoe City Oktoberfest
Saturday, September 21
With a wide array of Bavarian foods, local craft brews, live accordion music, games and crafts, Tahoe City Oktoberfest is a fun, family-friendly event for locals and visitors. Join the lakeside fun at the Gatekeeper’s Museum in William B. Layton State Park, located just by the dam known as The Fanny Bridge. Enjoy sampling delicious bites and brews and partaking in favorite games such as the yodeling contest and stein squat.
Bonus points if you dress up in your favorite lederhosen or dirndl!
There will also be plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained, such as pumpkin painting, a coloring station, balloon crafts and the Story Trail with Tahoe City Friends of the Library.
If you wish to start the festivities early, grab your running shoes and favorite Bavarian costume and join the Lederhosen 5K, an out-and-back fun run and walk that starts and ends at the dam and takes you alongside the Truckee River. The race begins at 11:30 a.m., and it is recommended you arrive between 10 and 11 am for event registration.
Date and Time: Saturday, September 21, 12 to 5 p.m.
Location: William B. Layton State Park, Tahoe City
More event info here
Buy your tickets here
Lederhosen 5K registration
Great Sierra River Cleanup
Saturday, September 21
This Saturday, September 21, the Sierra Nevada Alliance and their partner organizations will host the annual Great Sierra River Cleanup to remove waste and pollution from more than 20 watersheds in the region. It’s a day when local and out-of-town volunteers come together to restore their beloved lands and bring awareness to the importance of conservation.
The Great Sierra River Cleanup runs parallel to California’s Coastal Cleanup Day, a statewide effort to clean waste from beaches and waterways, to educate the public about leave no trace principles and sustainable habits to keep our fragile ecosystem healthy for generations to enjoy.
Some of the Sierra Nevada Alliance’s participating partner organizations include Keep Tahoe Blue, Diamond Peak Ski Education Foundation, California State Parks, American River Conservancy and IVGID Waste Not.
Click the links below to find out more information, and to sign up for a cleanup near you.
Keep Tahoe Blue Cleanup at Zephyr Cove
Diamond Peak and Keep Tahoe Blue Cleanup in Incline
Find other cleanup sites here.
Palisades Village turns into a Bavarian festival during Oktoberfest. Credit: Palisades Tahoe
Village at Palisades Tahoe Oktoberfest
Saturday, September 28
Known as North Lake Tahoe’s “largest Bavarian playground,” this annual festival celebrates Bavarian traditions with delicious food and craft beer vendors, live music, traditional dance and games. It’s fun for all ages, and everyone is encouraged to attend!
This event, presented alongside the North Tahoe Community Alliance, is something locals and tourists look forward to every fall. This year, a portion of the proceeds benefit High Sierra Lacrosse, a nonprofit organization that aims to promote personal growth and community with the local youth athletes.
The games begin at 1 p.m. and are free for all attendees. They will be held at the Gondola Plaza. If you don’t wish to participate, spectating is highly encouraged, as these can be a riot to watch! There will be a stain race and obstacle course, a bratwurst toss and a stein holding competition.
Some of the vendors in attendance include Truckee Brewing, Alibi Ale, Lagunitas and Sierra Nevada. Kids can enjoy root beer floats!
Date and Time: Saturday, September 28, 12 to 6 p.m.
Location: The Villages at Palisades Tahoe
Buy tickets here
5Point Adventure Film Festival
Saturday, September 28
On Saturday, September 28, the 5Point Film Festival will have a special showing at Lake Tahoe AleWorX. Presented by Stio, the 5Point Film Festival will highlight some of the year's most captivating adventure films, storytelling panels, workshops, networking opportunities and live music.
This particular event will benefit the Smaine Fund, a local nonprofit established in the honor of Kyle Smaine, a world-renowned skier who tragically lost his life in 2023. The Smaine Fund aims to use the legacy of Kyle and fundraising efforts to support athletes through education, training and mentorship so they can live out their big dreams.
Date and Time: Saturday, September 28, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Location: Lake Tahoe AleWorX, South Lake Tahoe
Cover Photo Credit: Tahoe City Oktoberfest, Visit Tahoe City
About the Author Kirsten Alexis
Kirsten is an outdoor adventure enthusiast, writer and photographer. You can typically find her hiking, paddleboarding, cross-country skiing and checking out new spots to share in the Tahoe Donner region. She has been lucky to call Tahoe her second home since she was a child and aims to inspire people to experience Tahoe and fall in love with the beauty and adventurous spirit of the region through her blogs and content. 
