Save the date; From pond skims to snow golf, you don’t want to miss these winter events

by | Feb 17, 2026 | Uncategorized

Snow and cold temperatures don’t mean the outdoor events stop in Lake Tahoe. Live music, snowshoe races, polar plunges, pond skims and more are winter traditions that shouldn’t be missed around the basin — dress accordingly!  

Snowshoe Cocktail Races

Save the date: Jan. 17, Feb. 21, and March 21, 2026 

For an out-of-the-box evening, partake in the annual Snowshoe Cocktail Races at Camp Richardson this winter.
South Lake Tahoe Police Logs

The annual snowshoe cocktail races at Camp Richardson Resort in South Lake Tahoe are always good for a laugh. Registration is free for participants, who must don snowshoes and balance a tray of cocktails while navigating the snowy course. There are several categories, including sprint, obstacle and team with prizes ranging from dining certificates to lift tickets. 

Don’t skip: The races take place in front of The Grove Beach Bar and Grill where you can pop in for a post-race drink, or, better yet, a warm slice of the rotating seasonal pie with whipped cream and vanilla bean ice cream. 

North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST 

Save the date: Feb. 25 – March 8, 2026

Test your pup’s strength at the dog keg-pulling contest at North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST.
Civic Calendar

For 44 years, North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST has packed more than 50 fun-filled community events into the 10-day extravaganza. Live music, fireworks, dog races, milk jug curling, a snow golf tournament, polar plunges and street fairs are just some of the lively events taking place across the North Shore. Check out the full calendar of diverse events at www.tahoesnowfest.org. 

Catch fireworks this winter at North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST, which brings over 50 events over 10 days to the North Shore.
An uphill battle with cystic fibrosis

Don’t skip: Ever wondered what it would be like to tee off in the snow? Find out at SNOWFEST’s Alaskan Open Snow Golf Tournament on March 7. Held at the Tahoe City Winter Sports Park, the tournament is a nine-hole scramble best ball format with teams of up to five players. Snowshoes, skis and Caddyshack-inspired attire are welcome. 

Toyota Air and Après

Save the date: Feb. 27 – March 1, 2026 

The three-day Toyota Air and Après festival at Heavenly Mountain Resort promises “big beats, big air and big views.” DJ sets at the base of World Cup and Lakeview Lodge on Friday and Sunday bookend the main event on Saturday — the Big Air Show. Watch ski and snowboarding athletes perform big air jumps accompanied by 3D projections, fireworks, special effects and music at the all-ages, free event. Visit www.skiheavenly.com for a detailed line-up of the weekend’s festivities. 

Don’t skip: Toyota will be set up at Heavenly Village, Cal Lodge and Tamarack Lodge for the weekend with new vehicles, giveaways and other perks for attendees. 

The Cushing Crossing at Palisades Tahoe 

Save the date: May 2, 2026

Celebrate the end of ski season with a bang at Palisade Tahoe’s 34th annual Cushing Crossing. The pond skim contest, held near the base of KT-22, judges participants in wacky costumes as they attempt to skim across the now-melted Cushing Pond. Points are awarded for creativity, style and a successful crossing. Registration for the competition is $20, but spectating is free. 

Don’t skip: Need more pond skims in your life? Check out Kirkwood’s Slush Cup or Heavenly Mountain Resort’s Pong Skim, both slated for April 11, 2026 (but subject to change based on conditions).