Incline's Summertime Hotspot
Can you picture the perfect summer day in Tahoe?... Read Article
Memorial Day weekend (coming up from May 23 to 25) officially signals the beginning of summer in the Tahoe-Truckee Region. The days are longer, sunshine is abundant, beaches and trails are ready to enjoy, wildflowers are in bloom and wildlife is more active in the meadows and mountains.
This upcoming weekend isn’t just about celebrating the start to summer. It’s a time to gather with family, friends and community members. From vibrant community festivals, farmers markets, beach cleanups, boating and live music entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Continue below to see a list of fun community events I curated to kick off your summer here in the Tahoe-Truckee region.
Photo above: Check out local artisans, entertainment and businesses at Made in Tahoe Spring Festival. Photo Credit: Palisades Tahoe
Made in Tahoe Spring Festival at Palisades
May 23-24
This Memorial Day weekend, The Village at Palisades Tahoe will transform into an open-air marketplace during the Made in Tahoe Spring Festival, a showcase of local artists, entertainers, food and drink vendors, businesses and nonprofit organizations. This free, family-friendly event is a celebration of all things Tahoe and our vibrant community members.
All proceeds of the Made in Tahoe Spring Festival will benefit the Tahoe Food Hub, a nonprofit dedicated to providing community members access to sustainably sourced local food.
To help ease traffic and parking congestion, there will be a free bike valet on site at the tram roundabout. Times are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.
Ring in summer on the north shore with Opening Weekend on the Lake. Photo Credit: Tahoe City Downtown Association
Opening Weekend on the Lake
May 21-25
North Lake Tahoe’s iconic start of the summer celebration begins on May 21 with family-friendly events around Kings Beach, Tahoe City, Alpine Meadows and the West Shore. Various events will include deck parties, boating, community cleanups, high altitude gardening, beach and campground openings and more.
Previously held for 16 years, with its last celebration in 2019, Opening Weekend on the Lake is back and bigger than ever. This year, the beloved community event expanded to include all the North Lake Tahoe region to bring together a wide variety of local businesses, nonprofits and public agencies to support the economy and community members.
Tee Off at Tahoe Donner Golf Course
May 22
Celebrate opening day at Tahoe Donner Golf Course, voted as the “Best Golf Course in North Lake Tahoe and Truckee,” on Friday, May 22. This semi-private 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course is the perfect blend of meticulously manicured fairways and scenic views. All ages and levels will enjoy the challenging course and community. After a full day on the course, enjoy a hearty meal on the sunny deck at The Lodge Restaurant and Pub.
Head to Heavenly Village for free live music entertainment. Photo Credit: The Shops at Heavenly Village
Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series
May 23-25
Head to Heavenly Village for free, family-friendly concerts to celebrate the beginning of the vibrant summer season. Friday night will officially kick off the summer series event and Memorial Day weekend with a show by Greg Austin and Southern Justice. On Saturday, Jackeyes will take the stage, and Sunday will feature a show by Guilty as Charged. Each show will begin at 5:45 p.m.
After Memorial Day weekend, Lake Tahoe’s largest summer live music series will continue every Friday and Saturday evening through September 13, so make sure to check out the lineup and watch your favorite band perform!
Tips From a Local
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Plan to arrive early. Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest weekends in our region, so I highly advise you to arrive at any event or attraction as early as possible to secure parking and avoid traffic.
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If possible, utilize public transportation, carpooling or biking to ease traffic congestion, parking issues and pollution.
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Wear SPF, drink lots of water and bring layers.
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Have fun and leave no trace!
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. 
