Three Great Lake Tahoe Hikes on the West Shore
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There’s something magical about celebrating the holidays in the Tahoe-Truckee region. With snow-covered landscapes, festive lights adorning the charming storefronts and an abundance of community events, the energy out here is unmatched.
Whether you’re seeking snow-covered outdoor adventures, cozy days lounging by the fireplace, family-friendly activities or community events, there’s a way for everyone here in the Tahoe-Truckee region to enjoy the holidays to the fullest.
Below, I have curated a guide for you to celebrate the holidays and ring in 2026 with a bang. I hope it’s your best yet!
Happy holidays, and have a wonderful rest of the year!
The Jennifer Street Parade of Lights features a magical light display and a food drive. Photo Credit: IVCBA
Northern Lights Festival
Through December 28
The community-loved Northern Lights festival in Incline Village continues with events including the Jennifer Street Parade of Lights and Food Drive, Tahoe Philharmonic 20th Annual Messiah, 12th Annual Holiday Bazaar, Tahoe Nutcracker by the Lake Tahoe Dance Collective, Santa and Penguin Pete visit Diamond Peak, Jewish Festival of Lights and various church services.
Heavenly Holidays
Through New Year's Eve
Ring in the holidays and new year with an exciting lineup of events at South Lake Tahoe’s Heavenly Village. You will find exciting events including Foster the People DJ set, 70th Anniversary Celebration, Heavenly Holidays New Year’s Eve and various live music performances.
Get your ugliest holiday sweater and head to the Ugly Sweater Crawl! Photo Credit: Tahoe Club Crawl
Ugly Sweater Crawl
December 20
Gather your friends and ugliest holiday sweaters and head to the annual Ugly Sweater Crawl hosted by Tahoe Club Crawl, an exclusive VIP nightlife and entertainment tour of South Lake Tahoe’s hottest spots. Each ticket order comes with welcome shots, appetizers, indoor game access at Tipsy Putt and VIP access to Peek Nightclub at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe.
You must be 21 or older to attend. Rideshares and carpooling are encouraged if you are consuming alcohol. Times are 8 to 11 p.m.
Location: 31 U.S. Highway 50, Stateline
Ring in the new year with a snowshoe adventure. Photo Credit: Tahoe Donner
New Year’s Eve Guided Snowshoe Tour and Fireworks Show
December 31
End 2025 under the sunset and stars as you make your way through the forested trails on a guided snowshoe tour at the Tahoe Donner Cross-Country Center. After you get your steps in, enjoy a spectacular fireworks display from the Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort. Space is limited, and it is encouraged to make reservations early.
This event is weather permitting and may be subject to cancellation. Please check with the Tahoe Donner Cross-Country Center for confirmation. Times are 5 to 8 p.m.
Location: Tahoe Donner Cross-Country Ski Center, Truckee
Watch the torchlight parade at the Palisades New Year's Family Celebration. Photo Credit: Palisades Tahoe
New Year’s Family Celebration at Palisades
December 31
Fun for the entire family! Palisades Tahoe is hosting a free, festive event for all ages to enjoy, featuring a torchlight parade, live music entertainment, disco tubing, fireworks, games and an East Coast balloon drop. The fun starts at 5 p.m.
Location: The Village at Palisades Tahoe
NYE Dinner Cruise
December 31
Celebrate New Year’s Eve on the lake! Your tour around the southern region of Lake Tahoe will be aboard the legendary M.S. Dixie II and includes a three-course gourmet dinner, live music, dancing and a bubbly toast. Book your spot early to ensure you have a spot on the ship. Trip times are 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Location: Zephyr Cove Resort, 760 U.S. Highway 50, Zephyr Cove
Dance the night away at Granlibakken. Photo Credit: Granlibakken Tahoe
New Year’s Eve Dinner and Dance
December 31
Ring in 2026 with a delicious dinner and disco celebration at Granlibakken Tahoe. This special event features a full-course gourmet buffet, a disco-themed dance party (make sure to wear your finest retro outfits), a live DJ and a bar for guests ages 21 and older. Advanced booking is required. Rideshares or carpooling are encouraged for guests who drink and are not staying in the lodge. The fun starts at 7:30 p.m. and runs until 12:30 a.m.
Location: 725 Granlibakken Road, Tahoe City
For all the other fun upcoming events, before the new year and after, be sure to visit the Daytime and Nightlife events pages on Lake Tahoe This Week!
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. 
