See What’s New for the 2025/26 Lake Tahoe Ski Season
Family Skiing Heavenly Mountain Resort Lake Tahoe
Winter is never far away when you’re high up in the Sierra Nevada, and our resorts are bringing the fun back with expanded services and shorter wait times.
If you’ve been dreaming about snagging first-chair on a powder day or plan to head out with the family for a vacation that makes you wonder if you are in a real-life Hallmark movie, there’s no destination quite like South Lake Tahoe. Find out what’s new and what to expect at Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts this upcoming 2025/2026 season.
Friday, November 21st is the target Opening Day at Heavenly Ski Resort, marking the beginning of the 2025-2026 Lake Tahoe ski and ride season!
This is the 70th anniversary season at Heavenly. Upcoming events include The Toyota Air and Après event, tentatively scheduled for February 28 – March 2, promises an action-packed experience. The resort will construct an impressive 45-foot jump at the base of a World Cup trail. Expect professional athletes to astound with their gravity-defying tricks under the mountain’s illuminated night sky. The Celebrity Banked Slalom, tentatively scheduled for Easter Sunday, April 5.
Coming back for the 2025/26 season is a membership program called “My Epic Gear,” which provides access to high-quality ski and snowboard equipment and premium valet services. They are also adding a new nine-week Adult Development Team program aims to connect intermediate and advanced skiers while refining their skills.
This season, the Ski & Ride School will offer lessons in ten languages, and a new restaurant concept, Golden State Kitchen, will feature healthier menu options.
Introducing Epic Friend Tickets for season-long passholders that provide 50 percent off lift tickets.
Beyond that, Heavenly is committed to sustainability. It participated in a local ban on single-use plastic bottles and is transitioning to aluminum for all Pepsi products.
For those seeking a different experience, Brews and Views will offer monthly gatherings beginning in December at Lakeview Lodge. These events will feature breathtaking Lake Tahoe vistas, culinary delights, music, and beer tastings from local breweries.
Heavenly Resort will continue with a reservation-based parking system for winter 2025/2026. Click this link for more details.
If you are new to Heavenly, it can seem daunting to navigate the four base lodges, with two in California and two in Nevada. Click here for the basics, including where to park, shuttle bus services, and how to access the mountain.
Skiers and Boarders at Kirkwood Mountain Resort Lake Tahoe
Friday, December 5th is the target Opening Day at Kirkwood Mountain Resort, marking the beginning of the 2025-2026 Lake Tahoe ski and ride season!
Events and freeride competitions return this season including the Winter Solstice Kickoff Party, New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade, Women’s Weekend, Proud to Be Me Week, Banked Slalom, Slush Cup, IFSA competitions, and the Freeride World Qualifier 2.
Kirkwood is continuing their reservations-based parking program to improve guest arrival and reduce congestion on weekends and peak days. This initiative will feature free, paid, and complimentary carpool parking options until noon.
Sustainability remains a priority, with plans to enhance food waste digesters, improve waste sorting, and implement automated dumpster sensors to minimize landfill contributions.
Kirkwood is known for deep powder and runs for even the most avid enthusiast to test their mettle.
Clear your calendar, call your friends, shout it from the mountain tops: Opening Day is officially Friday, November 28, 2025! Conditions permitting. Temps are dropping and it’s time to start digging out your gear because winter is just around the corner.
Sierra-at-Tahoe has harnessed the power of nature, reshaping the mountain to introduce expansive bowl skiing. Last year, they joined the Ikon Pass. In addition, they’ve got great terrain for beginners, making it a perfect spot, whether you’re new to the sport or bringing along a friend who’s ready to see what it’s all about.
Two new trails will open in West Bowl this season, plus more learning terrain off Easy Rider Express and expanded terrain park zones in The Aspens and Upper Main.
Sierra’s newest Avalanche Dog, Yuki, joins the resort’s skier safety efforts, and weekly live music returns in the Sierra Pub, along with signature events including Subaru Winterfest, Vans Methodology, the Sierra Playgrounds Party and more.
Two new TechnoAlpin snowmaking fan guns will aid early-season snow coverage on Easy Rider and snowmaking in the Aspen Terrain Park pod throughout the season.
Visiting South Lake Tahoe under 21? You’re in luck—there’s plenty to see and do beyond the casino floors. On top of all the most epic year-round outdoor adventures you could dream of, there are some sweet options for after dark too. Whether you’re a local looking to mix up your routine or a first-time visitor exploring the area, Tahoe offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. From outdoor experiences to unique local hangouts, here are five of the best ways to enjoy the South Shore if you’re not yet 21.
Rad Arcades
Inside Retroactive Arcade
Retroactive Arcade, which opened in the summer of 2025, is a treasure trove of vintage arcade games from pinball to Skeeball to classic racing games. At this arcade, old-school thrills meet cold drinks and good times. Step into the vibrant retro space filled with iconic games, bold colors, and nonstop nostalgia. There’s something for every kind of button-masher. Pair the action with cold beer, fizzy soda, and your favorite snacks. It’s the perfect hangout for a night out with friends, a fun family day, or simply reliving the good old days. The coolest part? Admission is a flat rate for unlimited game play. So you don’t have to worry about running out of coins and can play to your heart’s content.
In addition, both Harrah’s and Caesars Republic have arcades that are easy to find. Harrah’s arcade also has a jungle gym. They have old school style arcade games as well as modern day “flappy bird” game consoles.
Classic Bowling Alley
From birthday parties, to school celebrationsTahoe Bowlis a classic spot for family and friends. A recent visit reminded me just how timeless bowling can be. Along with the lanes, you’ll find old-school arcade games and tasty food to fuel your game. Best of all, Tahoe Bowl is easy on the wallet, making it a great choice for a day or night out.
Ice-Skating & Heavenly Village Activities
Ice-skating is yet again another fun physical activity that families and friends could definitely enjoy. South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena is another affordable facility to try out. They include a food court, a warm sitting area to warm as well as TVs to watch to shows in case you needed to warm up and need entertainment.
During the wintertime, the Heavenly Village mini golf course is replaced with an ice rink. There are a ton of things to do all within the Heavenly Village, including live music, a magic show, ice skating or mini golf, Rocket Fizz (So. Much. Candy.), and more.
Edgewood Tahoe Resort also has an ice skating rink – surrounded by pristine views of the resort and snow-capped mountains, Edgewood on Ice.
Mini Golf at Heavenly Village or Magic Carpet
When the snow melts, mini golf season kicks into gear on Tahoe’s South Shore. At Heavenly Village Mini Golf, you can putt your way through a lively setting surrounded by shops, dining, and live entertainment—perfect for families and friends looking to add a little friendly competition to their day.
For a more classic experience, head to Magic Carpet Golf, a Tahoe favorite featuring multiple themed courses with playful obstacles and plenty of nostalgic charm. Affordable, fun, and outdoors, it’s a go-to activity for sunny afternoons and long summer evenings.
From retro arcades and bowling alleys to ice-skating rinks and endless outdoor adventures, South Lake Tahoe has plenty of ways to keep the fun going if you’re under 21. Whether you’re here with friends, family, or just exploring on your own, the South Shore is full of memorable experiences in every season—no ID required.
Ah… the smell of autumn. The crispness in the morning. Calmness on the lake. The summer visitors are hibernating, and the bears are in the process of doing so too, with one last buffet of salmon near the Taylor Creek Visitor Center. Fall is also a great time to plan a romantic getaway to Lake Tahoe. Here are four ideas to make your fall romantic escape the best ever.
Explore Emerald Bay State Park
During spring and summer, it can get a bit busy in and around Emerald Bay State Park. It makes sense since it’s by far the most popular attraction in Lake Tahoe. With the kids back in school and the powder hounds still sitting at home, fall is THE time to explore the forested hillsides of the glacier-carved granite mountains along with the tiny island at its center.
Slipping into the healing waters of a hot springs pool, your mind will unwind, and a smile will appear on your face. Like a heavy coat being lifted from your shoulders, the stresses of daily life will be pulled out of you as you take in one of the many rejuvenating waters near Lake Tahoe. You can indulge in a couple’s hot bath and massage or many other spa services at the Steamboat Hot Springs, or check out one of the many pools Mark Twain enjoyed at David Walley’s Resort.
Take A Stroll Through The Aspen at Lam Watah
Lam Watah Trail is a gentle and beautiful walk to the lake shore’s that winds through beautiful stands of aspen and pine trees.
Book a trip to Tahoe to celebrate the amazing person you’re with and make this autumn one that you both will never forget with our guide to activities during the fall in Lake Tahoe.
Whoever decided that the typical happy hour would in fact be closer to two or three hours, I tip my hat to you. We’re all running on Tahoe Time, so the extra long ‘hour’ helps. Not sure how every joint unanimously agreed to that one, but it’s probably because this recipe for success needs no fixing – happy hour, happy people.
Happy hour heroes, rejoice. There’s a cold one with your name on it just about anywhere you look, and special deals for any night of the week so you won’t need to empty your pockets. For something we can all get happy about, check out these Lake Tahoe classics and local favorites with plenty of different options on special deals to get a little loose.
Chart House Lake Tahoe – Monday – Friday from 4:00 – 6:00 pm. One of THE best happy hours around. Visit their website for all the deets.
Best Happy Hour in Tahoe! Come relax at the Bear Trap Lounge at the Tahoe Ridge Resort. Our bartender Jim has been pouring drinks at the Tahoe Ridge Resort for over 40 years! Open to the public Thursday through Sunday, 2 pm to 9 pm. Happy Hour is 4 pm to 6 pm. Check out their virtual tour.
Emerald Bay Bar & Grill – Send it for happy hour any day of the week from 3pm-6pm and 9pm-12am at the Emerald Bay Bar and Grill.
McP’s Taphouse – McP’s is no stranger to our frequent ‘Best Spots’ posts. In their convenient location at the heart of the Heavenly Village, you’ll find their restaurant and bar stocked with a diverse selection of 40 beers on tap. Head over for happy hour from 3pm-5pm (excluding weekends). Entertainment most nights.
Happy Hour at the Grove Camp Richardson Resort– Happy Hour running every day, 7:00-9:00 pm, Monday-Thursday. The Grove is giving happy hour a whole new meaning… you can’t afford to miss it!
$5 Draft Beer Half off Rum Runners Half off Seasonal Cocktails Half off Appetizers Half off The Grove Burger Entrée Half off Caesar Salad Entrée
Tahoe Tavern & Grill Happy Hour Monday through Thursday, 3:00-6:00 pm and Friday, 2:00-5:00 pm.
Classic Cue – Join the Cue Crew on any given day and you can expect one of their specials or activities to be going on, but enjoy happy hour and pool from 3pm-6pm.
Mondays are popular at the Cue as they offer 2 / $8 fish or chicken tacos from 11am until 10pm, and a special $3 cans of Miller from 11am until close. Come try what many say are the best fish tacos in town!
Happy Hour at LandShark Bar & Grill Kick back, relax, and soak up the laid-back vibes at LandShark Bar & Grill during Happy Hour, Tuesday through Friday from 4 PM – 6 PM! Sip on $6 Margaritas, enjoy $6 Draft Beers, and snack on $9 Appetizers while taking in the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of adventure or just looking for a reason to celebrate, there’s no better place to toast to good times. Cheers to island time in Lake Tahoe! Also at Margaritaville Lake Tahoe, JWB Happy Hour! Tuesday through Friday, 4:00-6:00 pm. Unwind in style during Happy Hour at JWB Prime Steak and Seafood, where bold bites meet refined pours. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and chef-curated small plates in a relaxed yet upscale setting. Plus, you can elevate your evening with a bourbon tasting experience featuring Minden Mill Distillery.
Azul Latin Kitchen in the Heavenly Village. Starting at 11 a.m. (Monday – Friday, bar area only), you can enjoy margaritas and beers for only $4, wine for $3.50, tacos for $3, and burritos for $6. The catch? Every hour each of the offerings goes up 50 cents and ends at 3 p.m. There’s also a reduced option over the weekends.
Azul Latin Kitchen at the Heavenly Village Lake Tahoe
The Idle Hour Lakefront Wine Bar. Monday through Friday starting at 2 p.m. you can find an assortment of wines (sparkling, white or red) for $10 along with beer for $5. Small plates such as their shrimp cocktail, butter leaf wedge salad, spinach and artichoke dip, and traditional pinsa can also be had for $10 – or grab a slice of cheesecake for $5.
Idle Hour Lakefront Wine Bar Lake Tahoe
We hope to see you soon! Please check for updated specials, as things change!
Get your costumes ready! From trick-or-treating with the kids to adults-only entertainment, no other holiday lets you indulge your inner devil (or clown, princess, robot…) quite like a South Lake Tahoe Halloween.
Join us for a night of Halloween fun with costumes, horseless carriage rides, and delicious treats. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to dance the night away with friends and family. Come and enjoy a fang-tastic time at Boo Bash 2025! It’s going to be a Halloween party you won’t want to miss. Tickets will be sold at the door for more than current ticket price. All children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Join us for a Halloween-themed Costume Dinner Cruise aboard the M.S. Dixie II. Get ready for a night of spooky festivities, delicious food, and ghoulish fun as we set sail on the eerie waters. Dress up in your scariest or most creative costume and prepare for a thrilling evening of dining and entertainment on the M.S. Dixie II.
Spectacular Halloween at Zephyr Point is a family-friendly evening benefiting Zephyr Point’s Youth Camps. There will be haunted cabins, trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, bounce house, face painting, costume contests, hay rides, and more. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
The Shops at Heavenly Village has partnered with their friends at Desolation Hotel, Maggies Restaurant, Untethered, South Lake Lodging Association and the South Tahoe Chamber to provide the largest FREE trick or treat event for kids on the south shore complete with a $1000 costume contest.
There is no better place to mix and mingle with the creatures of the night than the iconic Lake Tahoe Halloween party that is Freaker’s Ball. $10,000 Costume Contest. VIP table and bottle service are available at Blu Nightclub by calling 775-450-6373.
Crawl your way through Harrah’s and Harveys Lake Tahoe, where each themed stop offers drink specials, spooky surprises, and cash prizes for the best costume at every location. With $10,000 in CASH prizes up for grabs throughout the night. The evening wraps up at PEEK Nightclub for the grand finale costume contest, offering the biggest prize of the night. Bring your best Halloween look for a chance to win big.
This Halloween, The Loft transforms into the Village’s premier Ultra Lounge—aptly named “The Haunted Loft”—where spooky décor, party favors, and nonstop dance music will set the stage for an epic night. The party starts at 9:00 PM, with DJ Tony Dove spinning from 10:00 PM until 2:00 AM.
Come dressed to impress. We’re giving away over $1,000 in prizes for the top three costumes, including dinners, drinks, bottle service, show tickets, and more!
Hallows Eve Bash at Lucky Beaver Bar & Burger Wednesday, October 30, 2024 Lucky Beaver Bar & Burger
We’ve got the booze….you bring the boos!!! This year, we are celebrating our Players with a Hallows Eve Bash!!! We will open up the party to the public at 9 pm! The best costume wins $500. All players must RSVP (Gold, Platinum, and Palladium players only).
Thursday, October 31st, 8:30 – 10:00 pm, Join us at Tipsy Putt for a spooktacular Halloween costume competition! Show off your best look while enjoying mini golf and drinks!
Whatever your plans for this Halloween, have fun and be safe!
$5 Draft Beer
Half off Rum Runners
Half off Seasonal Cocktails
Half off Appetizers
Half off The Grove Burger Entrée
Half off Caesar Salad Entrée
