A Summer of Fun at Palisades Tahoe

With the arrival of summer just around the corner, it's time to start planning your adventures in Lake Tahoe. And what better way to soak up the sunshine and celebrate the season than by attending one of the many festivals happening around the area? While there are plenty of festivals to choose from, there's one location that stands out as a true haven for festival-goers: Palisades Tahoe.

From May to October, this premier resort is home to a dozen unique events, ranging from free weekly gatherings to full-blown festivals. With world-class music, artisanal goods, mouth-watering food and drinks and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake, Palisades Tahoe has everything you need for an unforgettable summer experience.

So, whether you're a local or a visitor, grab your sunglasses, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to dive into the exciting summertime scene at Palisades Tahoe. Keep reading to discover more about the 12 incredible festivals and free events happening at this iconic location, starting this month.

Made in Tahoe 

May 27 and 28

The Made in Tahoe Festival is a must-see event in which more than 100 local artisans, businesses, chefs and organizations come together to celebrate the Lake Tahoe and Truckee communities. This spring festival offers a unique opportunity to shop, eat, drink and enjoy live entertainment while supporting the locals. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind celebration of all things Tahoe!

Broken Arrow Skyrace offers stunning views.

Broken Arrow Skyrace

June 16 to 19

Broken Arrow Skyrace is a trail-running event like no other. Held over three days and with seven different distances, including the unique Vertical K and Triple Crown, it allows runners of all abilities to experience the beauty of Lake Tahoe and its surrounding mountains. From steep terrain to snow slopes, the Skyrace challenges even the most elite athletes, all while showcasing the stunning scenery of the region. And with food, beer, music, seminars, films and fun activities for the whole family, it's not only a race, but also a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Lake Tahoe Reggae Festival

July 22 and 23

The 6th annual Lake Tahoe Reggae Festival is coming to Palisades Tahoe this summer and it's bigger and better than ever! Get ready for two days of incredible music from top reggae artists like Rebelution, Stick Figure, Tribal Seeds, Pepper, J Boog and many more. This all-ages event offers something for everyone. Kids age 3 and younger get in for free, while children ages 4 to 12 can get in with discounted tickets. Upgrade your experience with the VIP Package, which includes exclusive entry, a VIP lounge, prime stage viewing, luxury bathrooms and access to exclusive food and beverage vendors. Don't miss out on this unforgettable event!

Brews, Jazz & Funk

August 12

Get ready for a day of great tunes and delicious brews at the annual Brews, Jazz & Funk Fest. Featuring more than 10 different breweries and an incredible lineup of live music on two stages, this festival is not to be missed. Festival-goers can enjoy performances by ALO, Monophonics, Sal's Greenhouse and more. All proceeds from the event benefit the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe. With multiple stages and more music, beer and fun than ever before, make sure to get your tickets in advance as attendance will be capped.

Alpen Wine Fest

September 3

Join the Village at Palisades Tahoe and Uncorked for the 32nd annual Alpen Wine Fest. This all-inclusive wine-tasting event brings together more than 40 exceptional wineries from the region and beyond for a day of sipping and savoring. Attendees will also enjoy live music from some of the area's top musicians. All proceeds from the event benefit Can Do MS, a nonprofit foundation that provides health and wellness education programs to families living with multiple sclerosis. With a donation for your wine-tasting ticket, you'll receive an Alpen Wine Fest wine glass and the chance to taste an array of delicious wines. The event is open to all ages, but participants must be 21 years or older and present a valid ID to participate in the wine tasting. Don't miss out on this great event for a great cause.

Guitar Strings Vs Chicken Wings

September 8

Get ready for the ultimate showdown at the Wing Fest and Battle of the Bands at Palisades Tahoe. Six restaurants and six bands will compete for the coveted titles of Best Wings and Best Band. Festival-goers can sample wings from each participating restaurant and cast their vote for the winner of the Wing vs. Wing Champion Trophy. The bands will also be performing live, battling it out for a $500 cash prize and bragging rights. Don't miss this exciting event filled with great food, live music and friendly competition.

Good times and good food is the name of the game for Guitar Strings Vs Chicken Wings.

Adventure Van Expo

September 16 and 17

For a weekend full of adventure and exploration, check out the Adventure Van Expo. Whether you own a van or just love the van life, this event is perfect for anyone interested in outdoor adventure and off-grid living. See the latest gear, racks, rooftop tents and trailer tents from professional adventure vehicle builders. Network with like-minded individuals and find special parking in Van Row for van owners on a first-come, first-served basis. Enjoy food and beer, product demonstrations and workshops and explore the surrounding area with biking and hiking trails nearby. The event is open to anyone age 18 and older, with a small fee to attend and activities running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Oktoberfest

September 30

Raise your stein and celebrate Oktoberfest in the Village. This annual event is the largest Bavarian playground in North Lake Tahoe, featuring authentic German beer and Bavarian music and dance plus the ever-popular Oktoberfest Games and plenty of family fun. Enjoy live entertainment by Joe Smiell's 20 Piece Bavarian Band, the Almenrausch Schuhplattler Dance Troupe and Alpentanzer Schuhplattler Dance Troupe accompanied by the Alpentanz Kapelle Band throughout the day. Indulge in traditional European foods such as authentic brats, pretzels, Swiss Slices and desserts like apple strudel, nussgipfel and root beer floats. 

Free Weekly Events 

Bluesdays Tuesdays

Tuesdays, June 20 to August 29

Experience the soulful sounds of the blues at Bluesdays, the Village at Palisades Tahoe's free summer music series. Every Tuesday from June 20 through August 29, you can enjoy live music from top blues musicians at the Village's outdoor concert venue. The lineup includes renowned artists such as Chris Cain, Terry Hanck and Roy Rogers & The Delta Rhythm Kings. These fun-filled nights of blues music under the stars are free and open to all ages.

Blues music sounds better in the valley.

First Street Yoga 

Wednesdays, July 5 to August 30

Take a break from the stress of everyday life and join in on Palisade Tahoe's free outdoor yoga series. Happening in the Village every Wednesday night from July 5 to August 30, this is a free event certain to make you feel better about life. Classes take place outside, next to the Palisades Yoga Studio, and are led by a different local teacher each week. All levels are welcome, and you'll need to bring your own yoga mat. The event is free, and no registration is required this year. Just show up and enjoy the serenity of the beautiful setting while finding your inner peace.

Family-Friendly Bingo Nights

Thursdays, June 29 to July 27

Looking for a fun, family-friendly activity? Look no further than the Great Bingo Revival in The Village at Palisades Tahoe. Join in every Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. for a unique and exciting bingo experience hosted by a different restaurant each week: 22 Bistro on June 29, the Rocker on July 6, Auld Dubliner on July 13, Fireside on July 20 and Tremigo on July 27. Best of all, it's free to play, and there are prizes to be won in every round.

SunSets Live Music 

Fridays, June 30 to August 18

Unwind with some live music after a long day of outdoor activities. SunSets Live Music Series takes place every Friday in The Village at Palisades Tahoe. From June through August, talented musicians from the area will take the stage at either the Events Plaza Stage or Mid Village from 5 to 7 p.m. Admission is free.

To learn about other great events happening this summer, check out the Daytime and Nightlife pages.

Photos courtesy of Palisades Tahoe