December 13-26, 2023 by Tahoe Guide (Tahoe Weekly)

Tahoe & Truckee’s original guide since 1982

Dec. 13-26, 2023

Local Cookbooks to Enjoy

Couples that Create

Avalanche Education TAHOE

WINTER 23-24

GUIDE

Historic ski clubs of Donner Pass

LIVE MUSIC EVENTS OUTDOORS & RECREATION FOOD & WINE ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT SIGHTSEEING VISITOR INFO

Legendary spirit.

Thank you to all the people who love this place as much as we do.

Heavenly Holidays

Dec. 13-26, 2023

Volume 42 | Issue 18

Food & Well Being Editor

The snow has been a bit slow coming this winter season, and while I’ve enjoyed the extra days of hiking in the forest, I’m ready to break out the snowshoes and cross-country skis and explore the winter trails. A snowstorm arrived just in time for this holiday edition featuring a snowboarding Santa Claus on our cover, just in time for our winter edition of the Tahoe Music, Events & Festivals Guide. We publish the guide four times a year to coincide with the kickoff of Tahoe’s seasons and you’ll find hundreds of events to enjoy in this edition from holiday events, theater and dance performances (I’ll be at the “Tahoe Nutcracker”), music festivals, outdoor adventures, ski films, winter carnivals and much more to enjoy. As always, I advise purchasing your tickets now. We also feature a roundup of New Year’s Eve celebrations. We’ll have an updated list in our next edition, but many events sell out quickly, so we’re featuring New Year’s Eve in this edition, as well. If you’re looking to dine out at your favorite restaurant that night, you’ll want to book immediately. With the increase of snowfall in the mountains, it’s also time to brush up on your backcountry and avalanche safety courses. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to backcountry adventures (and that includes snowshoers and Nordic skiers), you’ll want to check out our “Avy savvy” roundup of upcoming courses and resources of where to find a class locally in this edition.

Social Media Editor

Local cookbooks

submissions Calendar submissions: YourTahoeGuide.com/Events Editorial Inquiries: editor@yourtahoeguide.com Entertainment Inquiries: music@yourtahoeguide.com Cover Photography: production@yourtahoeguide.com

making it happen Publisher/Owner & Editor In Chief

Katherine E. Hill, publisher@yourtahoeguide.com, ext. 102

Sales & Marketing Manager

Anne Artoux, anne@yourtahoeguide.com, ext. 110

Art Director

Abigail Gallup, production@yourtahoeguide.com

Graphic Designer

Lauren Shearer, graphics@yourtahoeguide.com

Website Manager, LT Marketing Entertainment Editor

Sean McAlindin, music@yourtahoeguide.com Priya Hutner, priya@yourtahoeguide.com Kayla Anderson

Copy Editor

Nicole Cheslock

Delivery Manager Charles Zumpft

bears & wildlife BEAR EMERGENCIES BEAR LEAGUE (530) 525-7297 (24 hours) | savebears.org INJURED ANIMALS Lake Tahoe Wildlife Center | (530) 577-2273 | ltwc.org

on the cover Of course, Santa takes a few runs when he’s visiting Tahoe

Food editor Priya Hutner offers a look at some of her favorite cookbooks penned by local authors for this holiday season from the artful “Cuisine Unique” to the unique idea of pairing horror movies and recipes for the “Horror Movie Night Cookbook.” There’s something for every type of cook to enjoy in her feature “Tantalizing Tahoe treats: Local cookbooks to enjoy, gift.”

15 24 New York City Ballet

P.O. Box 154 | Tahoe Vista, CA 96148 (530) 546-5995 | f (530) 546-8113 YourTahoeGuide.com | @TahoeGuide

Fred Besch

Festive holiday s e a s o n i n Ta h o e

Hocus Focus

Many readers have called and emailed me to lament the loss of the Hocus Focus puzzle in the magazine. When I asked a group of local kids to rank all the available puzzles for kids, none of them wanted the Hocus Focus, so we cut it along with our horoscope in November to make room for more activities for kids. Seems like Hocus Focus was a favorite among many of our older readers (and a few kids). While we won’t be bringing it back to the print edition, I will include it in our monthly newsletter. You can sign up at YourTahoeGuide.com/newsletter.

Katherine E. Hill PUBLISHER/OWNER & EDITOR IN CHIEF

for the holidays. Make the most of your holiday season

inside

Avalanche Education Remembering Brian Gimbert Historic Ski Lodges Music, Events & Festivals Guide Couples that Create Puzzles & Games Tahoe Nutcracker Local Cookbooks to Enjoy

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the winter in this edition and make a plan to enjoy local

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theater, dance performances, music festivals, winter out-

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l a ke tahoe facts .

Lake Tahoe is located in the states of California and Nevada, with two-thirds in California.

CLAIR Donner Summit TAPPAAN

Da toshut*

MT. ROSE

DONNER MEMORIAL STATE PARK

NEVADA NORDIC

ra Rim T

h Ta

ROYAL GORGE

Tahoe Vista

TAHOE XC

TAHOE CITY WINTER SPORTS PARK

EVERLINE RESORT

Crystal Bay DEEPEST POINT

Marlette Lake

Dollar Hill Tahoe City

GRANKLIBAKKEN

Sunnyside SNO-PARK

Ta h o e R i m

a Tr

Spooner Lake

West Shore

CASINOS

Glenbrook

Homewood

East Shore

m Tr a i l

Tahoma

e Ri

HOMEWOOD

o Ta h

*Denotes Washo place names

Carson City

NEVADA NORDIC

Da ow aga*

Eagle Rock

SUGAR PINE POINT STATE PARK

Meeks Bay

Learn about the natural history of the Tahoe Sierra at YourTahoeGuide.com

Cave Rock

Zephyr Cove

Age of Lake Tahoe: 2 million years

Emerald Bay

Fed By: 63 streams and 2 hot springs

Eagle Lake

Tsalee tosh*

Only Outlet: Truckee River (Tahoe City)

Cascade Lake

Watershed Area: 312 square miles (808 sq km)

South Lake Tahoe

Fannette Island

South Shore

Average Surface Water Temperature: 51.9˚F (11.1˚C)

Ta h oe

R i m Tr ail

Average Surface Temperature in July: 64.9˚F (18.3˚C)

Stateline HEAVENLY

CAMP RICHARDSON

Average Water Temperature: 42.1˚F (5.61˚C)

Sources: Tahoe Environmental Research Center, U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Forest Service, “Tahoe Place Names,” Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Plan, The Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, and David Antonucci (denoted by 1).

DIAMOND PEAK

Incline Village

Kings Beach

Carnelian Bay

PALISADES TAHOE

CROSS COUNTRY SKI AREA

North Shore

NORTH TAHOE REGIONAL PARK

Olympic Valley

DOWNHILL SKI AREA

NORTHSTAR

Truckee River

SODA SPRINGS

VOLUME: 39 trillion gallons (147.6 trillion liters) There is enough water in Lake Tahoe to supply everyone in the United States with more than 75 gallons (284 liters) of water per day for 5 years.

SHORELINE: 72 miles (116 km) Lake Tahoe has a surface area of 191 square miles (307 km). If Lake Tahoe were emptied, it would submerge California under 15 inches of water (.38 m)

SKY TAVERN

TRUCKEE AIRPORT

SUGAR BOWL

AVERAGE DEPTH: 1,000 feet (304 m) MAXIMUM DEPTH: 1,645 feet (501 m) Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake in the U.S. (Crater Lake in Oregon, at 1,932 feet, or 589 m, is the deepest), and the 11th deepest in the world.

SIZE: 22 miles long, 12 miles wide (35 km long, 19 km wide) Lake Tahoe is as long as the English Channel is wide.

Donner Lake

DONNER SKI RANCH

LAKE CLARITY: 2022: 71.7 feet depth (21.9 meters) 1968: First recorded at 102.4 feet (31.21 m)

NATURAL RIM: 6,223’ (1,897 m) Lake Tahoe sits at an average elevation of between 6,223’ and 6,229.1’. (1,897-1,899 m) The top 6.1’ (1.8 m) of water is controlled by the dam in Tahoe City and holds up to 744,600 acre feet of water (91,845 m).

RENO-TAHOE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Truckee

BOREAL

Email anne@yourtahoeguide.com for details

Reno & Sparks

PLUMAS-EUREKA STATE PARK

TAHOE DONNER

AUBURN SKI TRAINING CENTER

Read about how the lake was formed, Lake Tahoe’s discovery, lake clarity and more at YourTahoeGuide.com. Click on Explore Tahoe

Fallen Leaf Lake

Meyers

BIJOU PARK / LAKE TAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

LAKE TAHOE AIRPORT

FREEL PEAK

ECHO LAKES

Highest Peak: Freel Peak at 10,881 feet (3,317 m) Average Snowfall: 409 inches (10.4 m) Permanent Population: 70,000 Number of Visitors: 17 million annually

TART Connect

A vacation from your car.

Free on-demand shuttle service in North Lake Tahoe and Truckee.

Kirkwood

SIERRA-AT-TAHOE KIRKWOOD

Tahoe City

Olympic Valley

Tahoe Vista

Kings Beach

West Shore

Carnelian Bay

Crystal Bay

Incline Village

Northstar

Truckee

HOPE VALLEY

Hope

Markleeville Valley ©Tahoe Guide

Photo: Ryan Salm

YOUR BUSINESS COULD

Or, take TART regional transit throughout North Lake Tahoe and Truckee. All rides are free! TahoeTruckeeTransit.com 4

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YourTahoeGuide.com

SIGHTSEEING Palisades Tahoe after a recent December snowstorm. | Palisades Tahoe

EAST SHORE CAVE ROCK | DE EK WADAPUSH*

This iconic sight is part of an old volcano. Take in the view from Cave Rock State Park.

NORTH SHORE

TAHOE SCIENCE CENTER

TAHOE ART LEAGUE GALLERY

Tues.-Sat. by reservation (775) 881-7566 | tahoesciencecenter.org University of California, Davis, science education center at Sierra Nevada University. Exhibits include a virtual research boat, biology lab, 3D movies and docent-led tours. Ages 8+.

(530) 544-2313 | talart.org Featuring works by local artists & workshops.

GATEKEEPER’S MUSEUM

(530) 583-1762 | northtahoemuseums.org Featuring historic photos, the Steinbach Indian Basket Museum and historical memorabilia in Tahoe City. By appt. only. KINGS BEACH

northtahoebusiness.org Kings Beach is a popular spot for dining and shopping with the North Shore’s largest sandy beach located in the heart of town. Free parking at North Tahoe Beach, Brook Street, Minnow and the Christmas Tree lot on Hwy. 28. NORTH TAHOE ARTS CENTER

(530) 581-2787 | northtahoearts.com Featuring works by local artists with locations in Kings Beach and Tahoe City.

WATSON CABIN

(530) 583-1762 | northtahoemuseums.org Watson Cabin, built by Robert Watson and his son in 1909, is the oldest building in Tahoe City and on the National Register of Historic Places (summer tours).

Open daily | thesnowmuseum.org Memorabilia from the 1960 Winter Olympics and select items from Auburn Ski Club’s collection of early ski history. Inside Boatworks Mall in Tahoe City. TAHOE CITY

visittahoecity.com Popular for shopping and dining with historical sites. Visit the Tahoe Dam, Lake Tahoe’s only outlet, and Fanny Bridge. Peer into Watson Cabin (1909) for a glimpse at pioneer life. Free parking at Commons Beach, Grove St., Jackpine St. and Transit Center.

HIGH CAMP & OLYMPIC MUSEUM

(800) 403-0206 | palisadestahoe.com Palisades Tahoe, host of the VIII Winter Olympic Games in 1960, celebrates its Olympic History with the Tower of Nations with its Olympic Flame and the symbolic Tower of the Valley at Highway 89. The Olympic Museum at High Camp features historic memorabilia and photographs. Aerial tram ticket required.

SOUTH SHORE

TRUCKEE donnersummithistoricalsociety.org At Old Hwy 40 & Soda Springs Rd. 20-mile interpretive driving tour along Old 40. EMIGRANT TRAIL MUSEUM

(530) 582-7892 | parks.ca.gov The Emigrant Trail Museum features exhibits and artifacts on the Donner Party (1846-47) at Donner Memorial State Park. See the towering Pioneer Monument.

HEAVENLY

(775) 586-7000 | skiheavenly.com Enjoy a 2.4-mile ride on the gondola to the top with panoramic views. Ticket required. LAKE TAHOE MUSEUM

Sat. until mid-Dec. & by appt. (530) 541-5458 | laketahoemuseum.org Washoe artifacts and exhibits on early industry and settlers. Pick up walking tour maps.

Readings on Dec. 7, 2023

Truckee River FLOW AT FARAD: 470 CFS

& FANNETTE ISLAND

(530) 541-3030 | parks.ca.gov Lake Tahoe’s only island is in Emerald Bay & is home to an old tea house. Boat access only. (Closed Feb. 1-June 15 for nesting birds.)

NATURAL RIM: 6,223’

TROA.NET

(530) 525-7232 Park | parks.ca.gov Sugar Pine Point State Park is home to the historic Ehrman Mansion. See boathouses with historic boats and General Phipps Cabin built in the late 1800s. Summer tours. Parking fee. VIKINGSHOLM CASTLE

ON-DEMAND SHUTTLES (FREE)

Fri.-Sun. | (530) 582-0893 | truckeehistory.org Housed in the original Depot, built in 1901. Exhibits cover different eras in Truckee history.

North & West Shores and Truckee | TART Connect app Olympic Valley & Alpine Meadows | Mountaineer app South Shore | Lake Link app

OLD JAIL MUSEUM

PUBLIC TRANSIT

(530) 659-2378 | truckeehistory.org One of a few surviving 19th Century jailhouses used from 1875 until May 1964 (summer tours). Closed for winter.

truckeehistory.org | truckee.com Settled in 1863, Truckee grew quickly as a stagecoach stop and route for the Central Pacific Railroad. During these early days, many historical homes and buildings were built including The Truckee Hotel (1868) and the Capitol Building (1868). Stop by the Depot for a walking tour of historic downtown. Paid parking downtown.

Sat.-Sun. & holidays truckeedonnerrailroadsociety.com Learn about the historic railroad. Located in a caboose next to the Truckee Depot. WESTERN SKISPORT MUSEUM

Closed for cataloging & preservation (530) 426-3313, ext. 113 | auburnskiclub.org The museum has partnered with the SNOW Museum exhibition in Tahoe City while closed.

Boots McFarland by Geolyn Carvin | BootsMcFarland.com

HELLMAN-EHRMAN MANSION

MUSEUM OF TRUCKEE HISTORY

TRUCKEE RAILROAD MUSEUM

EMERALD BAY | TSALEE TOSH*

Tues.-Sat. | (530) 587-5437 | kidzonemuseum.org Interactive exhibits, science & art classes for kids up to age 7. BabyZone & Jungle Gym.

TOWN OF TRUCKEE

IN 2022: 6,222.73’

Eagle Rock, one of the Lake’s most famous natural sites, is a volcanic plug beside Highway 89 on the West Shore. Trail to top is on the south side.

(530) 541-3030 | (530) 525-9529 ADA parks.ca.gov | vikingsholm.com Tour the grounds of Vikingsholm Castle (interior tours closed for season), see Eagle Falls and Fannette Island (the Lake’s only island), home to an old Tea House. Parking fee.

KIDZONE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

(530) 542-2908 | cityofslt.us Urban Trailhead at base of Heavenly Gondola with local exhibits and programs.

LAKE LEVELS Lake Tahoe ELEVATION: 6,227.09’

(530) 541-5227 | tahoeheritage.org Once known as the “Grandest Resort in the World” as the summer retreat for three San Francisco elite families with the Baldwin Estate, Pope Estate & Valhalla. Grounds open year-round. Tours in summer.

EAGLE ROCK

DONNER SUMMIT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

OLYMPIC VALLEY

EXPLORE TAHOE SNOW MUSEUM

TALLAC HISTORIC SITE

WEST SHORE

*Denotes Washo place names

North Tahoe & Truckee (TART) | laketahoetransit.com South Tahoe | tahoetransportation.org

ROAD CONDITIONS California road conditions roads.dot.ca.gov, (800) 427-7623 or 511 (while in Calif.) Nevada Road conditions nvroads.com, (877) 687-6237 or 511 (while in Nevada)

VISITORS’ CENTERS East Shore Spooner Lake State Park (775) 831-0494 Kings Beach Kings Beach State Rec. Area (Thurs.-Mon., July-Aug.) Incline Village 969 Tahoe Blvd. (800) 468-2463 South Shore At Heavenly Village. (530) 542-4637 Tahoe City 100 N. Lake Blvd. (530) 581-6900 Truckee 10065 Donner Pass Rd. (530) 587-8808 U.S. Forest Service | Incline Village 855 Alder Ave. (775) 831-0914 (Wed.-Fri.) U.S. Forest Service | South Lake Tahoe 35 College Dr. (530) 543-2600 U.S. Forest Service | Tahoe City 3080 N. Lake Blvd. (530) 583-3593 (Fridays) U.S. Forest Service | Truckee 10811 Stockrest Springs Rd. (530) 587-3558 National Forest access info fs.fed.us/r5/webmaps/RecreationSiteStatus

Dec. 13-26, 2023 GET OUTSIDE

Avy savvy

Ava l a n c h e t r a i n i n g e s s e n t i a l fo r b a c k c o u n t r y s p o r t s

re you thinking of heading into the backcountry this winter? If so, you should take an avalanche safety course approved by the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) or attend a free event to learn more about this rewarding, yet potentially risky, sport. In addition to public courses, some companies offer private guided tours, avalanche safety classes and introduction to backcountry skiing days. Safety is always the No. 1 priority when traveling off-piste, so know before you go.

Avalanche education class

Presented by Tahoe Mountain Sports, the session on Dec. 13 will focus on avalanche rescue techniques with representatives of Tahoe Mountain School and Tahoe Nordic Search & Rescue. Doors open at 6 p.m. at Alibi Ale Works in Truckee. Raffle to benefit participating nonprofits. | tahoemountainsports.com

Backcountry Safety Awareness Week

Class on snowpack observation | Sean McAlindin

Be prepared for back-country travel this winter with informative talks and events including Sharing the Backcountry Panel on Dec. 13; Backcountry Film Festival on Dec. 14; Women’s specific Intro to the Backcountry Lecture on Dec. 15; and a guided tour followed by professional athlete panel hosted on Dec. 16 along with Lake Tahoe Snowmobilers monthly meetup and beacon park at Little Truckee Summit. | takecaretahoe.org/backcountry

Après & Avy Awareness

Meet the Sierra Avalanche Center team on Dec. 20 from 4 to 7 p.m. in the Judah Lodge at Sugar Bowl to discuss avalanche awareness and learn other important backcountry information. Sierra Vista bar will be open. Free. | sierraavalanchecenter.org

Motorized Avalanche classes

Sierra Avalanche Center offers Intro, Level 1, Rescue and Level 2 and women-specific avalanche classes for motorized users on select dates from Jan. 12 to Feb. 18. Many classes are free but fill up fast. | sierraavalanchecenter.org n

Downtown Tahoe City Lighting Program

Locals and visitors enjoy dazzling displays as they walk through our town decorated with thousands of lights on trees and buildings. Since 2018, The Downtown Tahoe City Lighting Program has upgraded to 100% LED lights! The new LED lights us less than 20% of the energy of the previous incandescent lights. We have since expanded our program, looking to create space in certain areas, as well as highlight our building architecture. In addition, we have added lights to the perimeter of central buildings in town.

Donate today! THANK YOU to our supporters: Tahoe City Marina, Boatworks Mall, North Tahoe Community Alliance, Tahoe Marina Lakefront, Swigards, Rotary Club and Kiwanis.

YourTahoeGuide.com

New ski flicks debut Several new locally made ski films have recently debuted. Follow the makers to find details on local shows and watch the trailers.

“Home, Sick!”

Ski For The Love has upcoming showings of its new film “Home, Sick!” on Dec. 21 at Alibi Ale Works’ Truckee Public House and at the Olympic Valley Chapel on Jan. 4. The movie was filmed on location in Tahoe during the winter of 2022-23. Featuring Josh Anderson, Brandon Craddock, Alex ‘Shugz’ Dorszynski, Jed Kravitz and friends. | @skiforlove

“Redline Traverse”

This film uncovers the history of the Sierra Nevada’s most notorious yet famously undocumented ski traverse. It premieres with a free showing on Dec. 16 at Kirkwood Mountain Resort at 3:30 p.m. at Red Cliffs Day Lodge. Patience, determination and a serendipitous series of events allows skiers Jenna Kane and Greg Cunningham to repeat the rare feat, in their own style, after a record-setting winter in May 2023. Deeply respected by the most astute Sierra ski historians, completing the Redline in one push requires intimate knowledge of the Range, an ample snowpack, an extended period of stable weather, and a willingness to stay in the high country for several weeks. Through the eyes of the pioneers and the sole person to repeat the feat since, the film follows two Kirkwood-based skiers as they draw their own Redline 40 years after its original completion. | RSVP eventbrite.com

“Rebirth”

Professional snowboarder Curtis Woodman recently released his latest film, “Rebirth,” a celebration of snowboarding and its unique ability to transform lives by pursuing one’s passions. After two years of being off of the snow while taking care of his father, who was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and passed last fall, Woodman returned to the mountains last season to ride in honor of his father and reconnect with what he

If you’re going to Ski Tahoe You should really See Tahoe

“Home, Sick!”

loves most, according to a blog post shared by the Incline Village Crystal Bay Community & Business Association. “Rebirth” was named after the song Woodman produced for the film in honor of his experience of last season being back on the snow. But more than just a showcase of snowboarding tricks, Rebirth is also a story about personal growth and transformation. The film is set to be released at slushthemagazine.com | @curtiseaofcurtis

e A r u t w n a e i v t s d ! A · Snowshoe Tours · Family Adventures · Multisport Adventures · Year-Round Team Building · Group & Company Outings · Mountain Biking · Hiking

Scan to save $15 on lift tickets!

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· Kayak & SUP Tours · Beachfront Rentals

GIVE THE GIFT OF ADVENTURE! 530-913-9212 TahoeAdventureCompany.com

Dec. 13-26, 2023 GET OUTSIDE

Submit your

the Messner, from sunrises in Emerald Bay to sunsets over Mt. Everest, the Morrison brothers epitomize how the ski dream is meant to be chased. | alpenglowsports.com

EVENTS for FREE

at YourTahoeGuide.com/Events

Tahoe Fund Christian Pondella

Grover State Park

Hot springs reopen at Grover State Park The hot springs have reopened at Grover Hot Springs State Park outside Markleeville after being closed for more than two years following damage from the Tamarack Fire that destroyed part of the park in July 2021. The hot springs and cold pools have both now reopened. The pools are open starting at 9:30 a.m. Thursday to Sunday and advance tickets are required. | parks.ca.gov, (530) 694-2248

Morrison brothers recount adventures Alpenglow Sports presents its next talk in the Winter Speaker Series with brothers Jim and John Morrison presenting “Skiing the High Sierra and Beyond” on Jan. 4 at 6 p.m. at the Olympic Village Events Center in Olympic Valley. All proceeds will benefit The Send It Foundation. Tahoe Guide is a sponsor of the speaker series. Jim and John will discuss their many adventures across iconic peaks and destinations, including Lake Tahoe, the High Sierra and the remote mountain regions of the world. From the old growth trees of Rubicon Peak to the steeps of Red Slate couloir, from the ruggedness of the Matterhorn, to the intensity of

Buy bear plaques to fund trails Light Tours of Tahoe

Backcountry ski guide released “Light Tours of Tahoe, California + Nevada” has been released detailing 64 backcountry routes in the Tahoe region by guide and avalanche educator Richard Bothwell. The guidebook is accessible to a range of skiers and riders and includes routes to minimize avalanche exposure. The routes are also available on the onX Backcountry app. | beaconguidebooks.com

The Tahoe Fund has announced a partnership with Placer County to install personalized bear plaques along the railings in Tahoe City’s Heritage Plaza to raise funds for trails in the Placer County region of North Lake Tahoe. The plaques are available in two sizes. For $5,000, the Mama Bear plaque measures 13” tall x 20” wide and has space for a 40- to 45-character message. For $2,500, the Baby Bear plaque measures 8” tall x 12” wide and has space for a 20- to 25-character message. Plaques may be purchased online. | tahoefund.org CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

YourTahoeGuide.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

player signings. Season ticket deposits are now being accepted. | knightmonstershockey.com

more about Tahoe Guide’s coverage of winter trash issues at YourTahoeGuide. com/trash. Help protect Tahoe by using established Sno-Parks and sledding hills that offer services, including trash removal. Find a full list of locations at YourTahoeGuide.com/tubing.

Tahoe Knight Monsters

Hockey team name unveiled The ECHL’s newest team, the Tahoe Knight Monsters, revealed its new name and logo recently. The team’s colors are teal, gold and black. The Knight Monsters team name and logo is portrayed by a dragon-like creature that resides and rules Lake Tahoe. The inspiration for the name and logo originated from local input and more than 1,000 nominations and is based on the fictional character Tahoe Tessie. The team will begin play for the 20242025 season. A 36-home game schedule will take place at the Tahoe Blue Event Center in Stateline, Nev. The team will introduce the mascot, team jerseys and an NHL/AHL affiliate in early 2024. In the late spring and summer, the team will announce a head coach and the first

this information at YourTahoeGuide.com/ winter. If you’re not accustomed to driving in wintery conditions, we advise taking free public transportation, which includes park and ride ski shuttles, buses and door-to-door shuttles. Find details on these options and how to check road conditions on our Sightseeing page in every edition of Tahoe Guide. | YourTahoeGuide.com/winter

Take Care Tahoe

NDOT to clean sled trash The Nevada Department of Transportation is paying for a trash container, two portable toilets and litter collection by the Clean Tahoe Program at the Spooner Summit sled hill from December to April this winter, according to the League to Save Lake Tahoe. The League has lobbied NDOT for three years to take these steps to fight litter at the popular sledding location near the intersection of Highways 28 and 50. The Spooner Summit sled hill is an unofficial sledding area that isn’t maintained. After many winters of visitors using the area for sledding and leaving sled debris and other trash, the League began removing trash in 2017. Read

Are you prepared for winter weather?

Worship service Do you have the winter essentials you listings online

need in your carry? Do you know how to install your chains? Have you winterized your home? If not, you’ll find information from tips on winter driving, to knowing when not to drive, to how to winterize your home to avoid frozen pipes and how to dispose of ashes safely on our website. And don’t forget to sign up for Emergency Alerts even if you’re on vacation for a short time. You’ll find all

Tahoe Guide has a list of local places of worship in the Tahoe and Truckee area available at YourTahoeGuide.com. Check in advance of attending services as times may change. Changes to listings may be sent to editor@yourtahoeguide.com. | yourtahoeguide.com/ services

ALL YOU NEED FOR WINTER IN HARDWARE OUTDOOR GEAR APPAREL & WINTER BOOTS WINTER ESSENTIALS HOLIDAY DECOR & MORE

mountainhardwareandsports.com 10

TRUCKEE / INCLINE VILLAGE / BLAIRSDEN

Dec. 13-26, 2023 GET OUTSIDE

eve nts WEDNESDAY, DEC. 13

THURSDAY, DEC. 14

Crawl Space South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10-11 a.m., (530) 541-3420, bartonhealth.org Early Literacy Storytime South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10:30 a.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org Storytime Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 11 a.m., (775) 5886411, library.douglascountynv.gov Lunch & Learn Truckee Town Hall Council Chambers - Upstairs , Truckee, noon to 1 p.m., (530) 587-8808, truckee.com Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Weekly Food Distribution Kings Beach Office, Kings Beach, 3-3:30 p.m., (530) 546-0952, sierracommunityhouse.org RUFF (Read up for Fun) With Our Reading Dogs! South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 4:30 p.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org Deck the Halls Lighting Contest Participating locations along Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village, 5 p.m., northernlightstahoe.com Vodka & Latkes Temple Bat Yam, South Lake Tahoe, 6 p.m., (530) 542-1211, tbytahoe.org Light up a Life North Room at Edgewood Tahoe, Stateline, 6-7:30 p.m., (530) 541-3420, bartonhealth.org

Fall Harvest Farmers Market Boatworks Mall, Tahoe City, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., (775) 831-8015 Mother Goose on the Loose South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10:30 a.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org Family Story Time Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 10:30-11 a.m., (775) 832-4130, washoecountylibrary.us Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Paws 2 Read Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 4-5 p.m., (775) 832-4130, washoecountylibrary.us Sip and Shop at Incline Plaza Northern Lights Festival, Incline Village, 4-7 p.m., northernlightstahoe.com Deck the Halls Lighting Contest Participating locations along Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village, 5 p.m., northernlightstahoe.com

FRIDAY, DEC. 15 Community Forum Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 9-10 a.m., (775) 833-5252, ivcba.org Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Festive Friday Sip and Shop Date Night Art Truckee, Truckee, 4 p.m., (530) 448-3423, arttruckee.com

Deck the Halls Lighting Contest Participating locations along Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village, 5 p.m., northernlightstahoe.com A Night in Bethlehem Cornerstone Church, Incline Village, 5:30-7:30 p.m., (775) 831-6626, cornerstonecommunity.net Get Ready for the Backcountry Alpenglow Expeditions, Olympic Valley, 6-8:30 p.m., (877) 873-5376, palisadestahoe.com

SATURDAY, DEC. 16 Breakfast With Santa FiRE + iCE Interactive Grill + Bar, South Lake Tahoe, 8 a.m., (530) 542-6650, fire-ice.com Breakfast With Santa Fire + Ice, South Lake Tahoe, 8-10 a.m., (775) 5867000, skiheavenly.com Sip and Shop at Christmas Tree Village Northern Lights Festival, Incline Village, noon to 5 p.m., northernlightstahoe.com Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Pushing the Boundaries: Insights From Professional Backcountry Skiers & Guides Alpenglow Expeditions, Olympic Valley, 3:30 p.m., (877) 873-5376, palisadestahoe.com Deck the Halls Lighting Contest Participating locations along Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village, 5 p.m., northernlightstahoe.com

SUNDAY, DEC. 17 Santa Is Coming! Will & Ivey Children’s Boutique, Stateline, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., (775) 580-7705, willandivey.com Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com 2023 Far West Nordic Auction & Raffle Tahoe Yacht Club, Olympic Valley, 3:30 p.m. Deck the Halls Lighting Contest Participating locations along Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village, 5 p.m., northernlightstahoe.com

MONDAY, DEC. 18 Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Monday Meals St. Theresa Grace Hall, South Lake Tahoe, 4 p.m., (916) 837-4201, breadandbroth.org Deck the Halls Lighting Contest Participating locations along Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village, 5 p.m., northernlightstahoe.com

TUESDAY, DEC. 19 Family Story Time Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 10:30-11 a.m., (775) 832-4130, washoecountylibrary.us North Tahoe Senior Lunches North Tahoe Event Center, Kings Beach, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., (530) 550-7600, sierraseniors.org

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

Winter Fun Everyone! for

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING SLEDDING SNOWSHOEING RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

ICE SKATING

FOR THE ‘23-24 SEASON

PROGRAMS AT THE PARK

Limited walk-ups will be offered based on availability.

RESERVE ONLINE AT

• TEEN NIGHTS • ADULT CURLING • YOUTH HOCKEY Program details at tcpud.org

TCPUD.ORG/WINTER Visit tcpud.org/winter for more Know Before You Go tips, details on sessions, season passes, and reservations.

530.583.1516

2 5 1 N o r t h L a k e B l v d . , Ta h o e C i t y

tcpud.org 11

YourTahoeGuide.com

Remembering Brian “Boogs” Gimbert BY MIKE A.K. AKAY

Rest in peace, Boogs, and we will try to carry on your legacy of helping and caring about others. — Spence Marple

FREOM LEFT: Joel, Peter, Brian and Nancy Gimbert.

he holidays are here and the themes for the season are giving, generosity and kindness. The late Brian “Boogs” Gimbert embodied that spirit every day. Boogs was born Aug. 3, 1989, and raised in Tahoma. I was fortunate to know Boogs as a boy when he played with my son and later as he grew into a man. He was driving a snowcat before he had his driver’s license and became part of the grooming crew at Homewood under the tutelage of Justin “Shaggy” Cavasso, a man nine years his senior who would go on to become his mentor and a best friend. He eventually taught Boogs how to drive the cat and Boogs was the only kid in town who would arrive at the school bus stop in a snowcat. Snow grooming was in his blood, and he pursued that career into his adulthood earning status as a top-tier guy at Homewood and Alpine Meadows. When Shaggy left Homewood to work at Alpine Meadows, Boogs went with him and quickly rose in status

and respect in the corporation for his attitude and work ethic. Wanting to be of more help, Boogs began working in the snowmaking department in addition to his grooming duties. (I’ve done snowmaking and it’s a tough job as you are required to monitor computers along with hoses and snowguns in adverse weather in the middle of the night.) It was while working on snowmaking at Alpine Meadows in the early morning on Nov. 9, 2023, the snowmobile he was driving (and he was a very accomplished snowmobiler) flipped over and landed on him. He was rushed to the same hospital where he was born but did not survive. It is such a blow to the community to lose such a thriving and vital young man. Peter Gimbert describes his brother as “... the kindest soul with a genuine smile. Tahoe’s going to miss a special person.” He filled his life with action, skiing on the Alpine Meadows ski team until he was 16 years old. He loved snowmo-

biling, cross-country skiing, hunting, biking, fishing and dogs. He had a goal of fishing in Patagonia and getting a captain’s license to guide fishing trips. Peter said he relied on and appreciated his younger brother’s advice. In the off-season, Boogs was all action. With his best friend from childhood, Spence Marple, he spent weeks at a time together in the summer backpacking and hiking, completing the Colorado Trail and the Yosemite Trail. Boogs was always in contact with his brother about the snow conditions, where to ski and, on the occasions when

Boogs got early ups for virgin powder with ski patrol, he would give his brother a snarky look so he would know that his little brother was getting the best snow. To earn those fresh untracked turns, Boogs would report to work at midnight. He was never late and worked through the night in hazardous conditions in all types of weather on steep slopes, ultimately creating a premium ski surface for the skiing public. His philosophy, like his mentor Shaggy, was to make it the best you can, then go out, test the product (meaning, ski it) and then go back and figure out how to make it better. When the Caldor fire hit our area and Tahoma was evacuated, Boogs’s house was deemed in the safe zone (across the street) and he took it upon himself to patrol the evacuated neighborhood. Boogs’ genuineness and kindness also extended to everyone he met. He touched many lives. n

Brian Gimbert and his brother Peter.

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eve nts CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

TAHOE CITY CHOCOLATES

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Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com

at YourTahoeGuide.com/Events

SUNDAY, DEC. 24

EVENTS for FREE TUESDAY, DEC. 19 CONT’D

Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Reading Furends Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 3:30 p.m., (775) 588-6411, library.douglascountynv.gov Deck the Halls Lighting Contest Participating locations along Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village, northernlightstahoe.com Weekly Social Run & Hangout Trout Creek Pocket Park, Truckee, 6 p.m., donnerpartymountainrunners.com

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 20 Crawl Space South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10-11 a.m., (530) 541-3420, bartonhealth.org Early Literacy Storytime South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10:30 a.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org Storytime Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 11 a.m., (775) 5886411, library.douglascountynv.gov Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Weekly Food Distribution Kings Beach Office, Kings Beach, 3-3:30 p.m., (530) 546-0952, sierracommunityhouse.org RUFF (Read up for Fun) With Our Reading Dogs! South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 4:30 p.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org Deck the Halls Lighting Contest Participating locations along Tahoe Boulevard in Incline Village, 5 p.m., northernlightstahoe.com

THURSDAY, DEC. 21 Fall Harvest Farmers Market Boatworks Mall, Tahoe City, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., (775) 831-8015 Family Story Time Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 10:30-11 a.m., (775) 832-4130, washoecountylibrary.us Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Third Thursdays Makers Markets South of North Brewing Company, South Lake Tahoe, 5 p.m., (530) 494-9805, southofnorthbeer.com

FRIDAY, DEC. 22 Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Snowshoe Tour & Chalet Dinner The Chalet at Alpine, Alpine Meadows, 4:30 p.m., (800) 403-0206, palisadestahoe.com

SATURDAY, DEC. 23 Breakfast With Santa Fire + Ice, South Lake Tahoe, 8-10 a.m., (775) 5867000, skiheavenly.com

Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade Granlibakken Tahoe, Tahoe City, 5 p.m., (800) 5433221, granlibakken.com

MONDAY, DEC. 25 Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com

World’s Best Selection of Chocolates, Candies & Gummies!

Ice Cream Fountain • Sodas • Gifts • Espresso Upstairs at the Boatworks Mall | FREE PARKING 760 North Lake Blvd., Tahoe City | TahoeCityChocolates.com

TUESDAY, DEC. 26 Family Story Time Incline Village Library, Incline Village, 10:30-11 a.m., (775) 832-4130, washoecountylibrary.us North Tahoe Senior Lunches North Tahoe Event Center, Kings Beach, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., (530) 550-7600, sierraseniors.org Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Heavenly Holidays Favorite Characters Ice Rink Area, South Lake Tahoe, 2-5 p.m., theshopsatheavenly.com Reading Furends Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 3:30 p.m., (775) 588-6411, library.douglascountynv.gov Weekly Social Run & Hangout Trout Creek Pocket Park, Truckee, 6 p.m., donnerpartymountainrunners.com

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 27 Crawl Space South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10-11 a.m., (530) 541-3420, bartonhealth.org Early Literacy Storytime South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 10:30 a.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org Storytime Zephyr Cove Library, Zephyr Cove, 11 a.m., (775) 588-6411, library.douglascountynv.gov Heavenly Holidays Family Festival Heavenly Mountain Resort, South Lake Tahoe, noon to 7:30 p.m., (775) 586-7000, skiheavenly.com Heavenly Holidays Favorite Characters Ice Rink Area, South Lake Tahoe, 2-5 p.m., theshopsatheavenly.com Weekly Food Distribution Kings Beach Office, Kings Beach, 3-3:30 p.m., (530) 546-0952, sierracommunityhouse.org Snowshoe Tour & Chalet Dinner The Chalet at Alpine, Alpine Meadows, 4:30 p.m., (800) 403-0206, palisadestahoe.com RUFF (Read up for Fun) With Our Reading Dogs! South Lake Tahoe Library, South Lake Tahoe, 4:30 p.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org

Tahoe Science Center OPEN

TUESDAY – SATURDAY Reservations required

TahoeScienceCenter.org

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hen it comes to the earliest concentration of ski facilities and uphill rope tow operations in the Tahoe Sierra, Donner Summit was the leader of the pack. Conveniently accessible by train, San Francisco Bay Area skiers comprised most visitors and participants in the region’s nascent winter sports industry. By 1930 both Truckee and Tahoe City residents had built ski jumps (Hilltop and Olympic Hill, respectively), but on the summit to the west, commercial hotels, ski club lodges and tow operations were attracting large crowds. Abundant snowfall at the higher elevations makes for more reliable skiing conditions, and proximity to the transcontinental railroad provided dependable winter transportation. By the end of the 1930s, the Donner Summit region boasted one of the most extensive collections of commercial lodges, rope tows, ski clubs and ski enterprises in the United States. The rugged terrain of Donner Summit had long appealed to skiers who viewed the wintry landscape from a passenger train window or, by the mid-1930s, from their trusty automobile. The stormwracked region has a deep snowpack that covers the rocky landscape, but it would take lodging, uphill conveyances and professional ski instructors to turn it into a viable winter sports destination for the new breed of alpine skier. The days of earning your turns by climbing to the ridge on skis before schussing back down were coming to an end. The average skier much preferred to be repeatedly pulled up the mountain.

Popularity of ski clubs

In the late 1920s, college ski clubs were increasingly popular in the United States, especially in New England. The California-based Sierra Club, a conservation-oriented organization that had started out promoting hiking and mountaineering for its members, expanded into winter sports. Some members had been skiing for years. After a trip to Lake Tahoe during the winter of 1915, member Hazel King wrote an essay for the Sierra Club Bulletin telling of her “wonderful flight on hickory wings.” At Donner Pass, the era of modern skiing started in the 1920s when two brothers, Lincoln and James Hutchinson of Berkeley, introduced their friends to the sport. Lincoln matriculated at the 14

The storm-wracked region has a deep snowpack that covers the rocky landscape, but it would take lodging, uphill conveyances and professional ski instructors to turn it into a viable winter sports destination.

University of California at Berkeley and Harvard where he earned two degrees and later learned to ski in Switzerland. James also attended U.C. Berkeley and Harvard and obtained a degree at Hasting College of Law in San Francisco. The brothers were avid climbers, hikers and pioneer skiers in the Tahoe Sierra. In 1892, James became a charter member of the Sierra Club and, later, a director.

Hutchinson Lodge

The Hutchinsons and their crew made the Old Summit Hotel their winter headquarters. The structure was located at the west end of Railroad Tunnel No. 6 near Lake Mary on Donner Summit. The hotel, which burned down in 1925, was used by movie director and actor Charlie Chaplin to film snow scenes for his classic silent picture, “The Gold Rush.” The Hutchinson-led group, which soon adopted the name Sierra Ski Club, briefly relocated east to Hobart Mills outside of Truckee but the site was too far from the good skiing on the Summit. Lincoln Hutchinson then purchased property at Norden, west of the main crest of the Sierra, where during the summers of 1924 and 1925 club members constructed a small ski lodge just above the train tracks. They named their mountain retreat the Hutchinson Lodge. When the Sierra Ski Club disbanded in the early 1950s, the lodge and land holdings were donated to the Sierra Club. Originally built using rocks and trees from the surrounding area, the lodge was recently upgraded but still retains its rustic architecture.

Alpine skiers schuss Lincoln Peak, circa 1932. | Donner Summit Historical Society

Clair Tappaan Memorial Lodge

In February 1934, members of the Sierra Club hired a bus for a two-day excursion to Soda Springs and Norden where they enjoyed a weekend of excellent skiing. The round-trip bus fare from the San Francisco Bay Area was only $3.50 per person and food costs were also inexpensive. There were commercial hotels in operation on the summit, but prices were too expensive for these young adults. At its next meeting the club determined that it needed its own ski lodge. Architect Walter Ratcliff offered his services to design one. He had prior experience since Ratcliff designed the Hutchinson Lodge for the Sierra Ski Club. Dr. Joel H. Hildebrand, U.C. Berkeley chemistry professor and a future president of the Sierra Club, encouraged the skiers to move forward with their dream. Construction of the Clair Tappaan Memorial Lodge got underway during the summer of 1934. The chalet, built adjacent to the Hutchinson Lodge, was named for Clair Tappaan, a U.S.C. Law School professor, jurist and president of the Sierra Club from 1922 to 1924. In the February 1935 Sierra Club Bulletin, Dr. Hildebrand wrote of the project, “The location was carefully

considered. It is on the main line of the Southern Pacific, it is on the Lincoln Highway, which is kept open all winter. It lies at an altitude of 7,000 feet and has one of the heaviest packs of snow in the United States; 12 feet is normal in February and 27 feet is on record.” Proximity to the future site of the Sugar Bowl ski area was a huge plus for the club: “Four miles to the north stands Castle Peak, a massive, palisaded mountain 9,140 feet high, and three miles to the south is Mount Lincoln, 8,400 feet, whose north side encloses the ‘Sugar Bowl,’ a smooth, shaded cirque surmounted by fine pinnacles and collecting enough snow to last through June. The forest is open, and there are many slopes, with but few obstacles to fast running. A magnificent course with a thousand-foot drop in altitude has been discovered, down the slopes of Mount Lincoln. Two of our skiers ran it in five and a half minutes last March in untracked snow.” Read Part II in the next edition. n Tahoe historian Mark McLaughlin is a nationally published author and professional speaker. His award-winning books are available at local stores or at thestormking. com. | mark@thestormking.com

EVENTS c i s u M estivals F

TAHOE

GUIDE

2023 WINTER EDITION DEC.13, 2023APRIL 13, 2024

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS ENTERTAINMENT & FESTIVITIES NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATIONS THE GREAT OUTDOORS *Denotes sponsored listing

The

#1 source

for events, music & entertainment Heavenly Holidays

YourTahoeGuide.com @TahoeGuide 15

MUSIC, EVENTS & FESTIVALS | YourTahoeGuide.com

TAHOE DONNER

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Holiday Tree Lane

Santa Trains

Local businesses and agencies are invited to decorate and sponsor a 6-foot, pre-lit, artificial tree to raise funds for a cause of their choice. Enter to win the trees by purchasing raffle tickets through Dec. 16. | tahoechamber.org

All aboard the festive, lighted Santa Trains from 5 to 8 p.m. Enjoy free cookies, hot cider, coffee and hot chocolate with Santa and Mrs. Claus. | wplives.org

Until Dec. 16 | South Shore venues

Let it Glow contest

Until Dec. 22 | North Shore venues

Residences and business from Carnelian Bay to Crystal Bay can compete in North Tahoe Business Association’s Let it Glow contest. Enter by Dec. 15. Community voting is Dec. 18 to 21 on social media. | northtahoebusiness.org

Holiday Fire Trucks

Until Dec. 24 | South Shore venues

Fire trucks are decorated with holiday lights and visit local neighborhoods to spread holiday cheer. South Lake Tahoe’s truck leaves Station 1 at 5 p.m. nightly until Dec. 23. Lake Valley’s fire truck will start nightly at dark until Dec. 23. Routes available on Facebook.

Northern Lights Tahoe

Until Dec. 25 | Incline Village & Crystal Bay, Nev.

Northern Lights Tahoe is a community-powered celebration of heartwarming merriment for all ages. Festivities include Sip and Shop, Christmas Tree Village, and Santa and Penguin Pete at Diamond Peak on Dec. 24 and 25. | business.ivcba.org

Deck the Halls Lighting Contest Until Dec. 31 | Incline Village & Crytal Bay

Incline Village and Crystal Bay residences and businesses take part in a community lighting contest. | business.ivcba.org

Heavenly Holidays Family Festival

Until Dec. 31 | Heavenly Village | South Lake Tahoe

Heavenly Holidays Family Festival runs through New Year’s Eve featuring daily tree lightings, Holiday Paint & Sip, ice sculpture contest, meet your favorite Disney Characters, sleigh rides, Lake Tahoe Ferris Wheel, Lake Tahoe Build-a-Bear and A Rockin’ New Year’s Eve Celebration and more. | theshopsatheavenly.com

Holly Arts

Until Jan. 2 | North Tahoe Arts | Tahoe City & Kings Beach

Dec. 15-16 | Western Pacific Railroad Museum | Portola

“Messiah” Holiday Concert Dec. 15, 17 & 23 | Area venues

Maestro James Rawie leads TOCCATO-Tahoe Symphony Orchestra & Chorus in Handel’s “Messiah” and other seasonal favorites. Dec. 15 in Incline Village, Nev., Dec. 17 in South Lake Tahoe and Dec. 23 in Reno, Nev. | toccatatahoe.org

“Tahoe Nutcracker”

Dec. 15-17 | North Tahoe High School | Tahoe City

Lake Tahoe Dance Collective presents a holiday classic set in the ballroom of Tahoe Tavern in 1919 starring professional guest artists, community members and local dancers of all ages. Showtimes are at 7 p.m. on Friday and 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tahoe Guide is a sponsor. | laketahoedancecollective.org

Winter Wonders

Dec. 15-31 (select dates) | The Village at Northstar | Truckee

Formerly known as Noel Nights, Winter Wonders is a magical time where the Village at Northstar to life with live music, ice skating, s’mores under the starry Sierra sky and family activities to celebrate the holidays. | northstarcalifornia.com

“Cirque Dreams Holidaze”

Dec. 16 | Tahoe Blue Event Center | Stateline, Nev.

Feel the magic with a whimsically brilliant Broadway-style production infused with contemporary circus arts featuring a world-renowned cast of sleight-of-hand jugglers, fun-loving skippers, breath-catching acrobatics and much more. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. | tahoeblueeventcenter.com

“Glad Tidings” Holiday Concert

Dec. 16 & 17 | Truckee High School Auditorium | Truckee

Truckee Tahoe Community Chorus presents a holiday concert at 7 p.m. on Dec. 16 and 3 p.m. on Dec. 17. | truckeechorus.org

Holiday Markets

Dec. 16 & 23 | South Lake Brewing

Shop for holiday gifts from a variety of local vendors from noon to 5 p.m. Different vendors at each event. | facebook.com/southlakebrewingcompany

North Tahoe Arts hosts Holly Arts to the Artisan Shop in Tahoe City and North Tahoe Art Center in Kings Beach. This holiday fair offers festive shopping with locally crafted artisan gifts. | northtahoearts.org

Holiday Markets

“Nutcracker”

Enjoy artists and crafters from 3 to 8 p.m. on both days. | tahoeboho.com

Dec. 13 & 14 | Grand Sierra Resort | Reno, Nev. Dec. 22 & 23 | Bally’s Lake Tahoe | Stateline, Nev.

Reno Dance Company’s “Nutcracker” production features a lavish blend of costumes, scenery and choreography. | grandsierraresort.com, @renodanceco

Festive Friday

Dec. 15 | Downtown Truckee

Festive Friday means free downtown parking and special events from 4 to 8 p.m. while shopping at local businesses. | historictruckee.com 16

Dec. 16 & 23 | Boatworks Mall | Tahoe City

Breakfast with Santa

Dec. 17 | Lake Tahoe Golf Course | South Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe Golf Course hosts its annual Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Enjoy holiday crafts and activities. | Tickets facebook.com/ laketahoegc CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

Saturday February 17

DAMIAN MARLEY & STEPHEN MArley JR. Gong

• MIKI RAE & THE HOOLIGANS

RAGGA

COLLIE BUDDZ The GREEN Sunday February 18

STICK FIGURE

• FALSE RHYTHMS

THE MOVEMENT THE ELOVATERS

•

HOSTED BY OTIS OTES DJ Sets by Squarefield Massive

• • lakETaHOereggaefest.COM

TAHOE BLUE EVENT CENTER STATELINE, NV Doors 4PM Show 5PM 17

MUSIC, EVENTS & FESTIVALS | YourTahoeGuide.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

Santa Cruise

Dec. 17 | Lake Tahoe

Zephyr Cove Resort hosts a Santa Cruise for all ages on the “MS Dixie II.” Enjoy photos with Santa, holiday music and treats. | zephyrcove.com

Winter Concert

Dec. 19 | Truckee High School Auditorium | Truckee

Students at Truckee High School perform a holiday concert at 6 p.m. | ttusd.org

Winter Concert

Dec. 20 | North Tahoe High School Auditorium | Tahoe City

North Tahoe High and Middle School student holiday concert at 6 p.m. | ttusd.org

Holiday Bazaar

WINTERWONDERGRASS

Dec. 23 | Tahoe Flow Arts & Fitness | Tahoe Vista

Join for a day of community movement and shopping while checking out the newly expanded studio. Meet the teachers, see a demo class and enjoy exclusive deals. Vendor market opens at 3 p.m. followed by live performances, music and dancing at 6 p.m. | tahoeflow.com

Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade

ENTERTAINMENT & FESTIVITIES Live Music

Daily | Heavenly Village | South Lake Tahoe

Dec. 24 | Granlibakken Tahoe | Tahoe City

Experience a torchlight parade down the ski hill with Santa and the elves followed by hot chocolate and mulled wine starting at 5 p.m. | granlibakken.com

Christmas Pageant

Enjoy live music every day at Basecamp Pizza, Azul Kitchen and Gunbarrel Tavern starting at noon in the Shops at Heavenly Village. | theshopsatheavenly.com

Magic shows

Daily | The Loft | South Lake Tahoe

Dec. 24 | Olympic Valley Chapel | Olympic Valley

At this popular event that draws many families, children are offered a role in the Christmas pageant as they come in the door with ready-to-go costumes from Mary and Joseph to camels and kings. Starts at 5:30 p.m. | olympicvalleychapel.org

Ski With Santa

The Loft hosts daily magic shows with something for every audience from family-friendly shows to adults-only Magic After Dark shows along with special performances. | thelofttahoe.com

Live DJs

Daily | Golden Nugget Lake Tahoe | Stateline, Nev.

Dec. 25 | Area venues

Many local ski resorts will host Santa skiing on the slopes for the day. Keep your eye open for Ole St. Nick.

Visit the Center Bar for free live entertainment every Friday and Saturday starting at 10 p.m. and Sunday and holidays starting at 9 p.m. | goldennugget.com

Winter Music Series

Until April 20 | Village at Northstar | Truckee

Make Memories this Season SLEDDING, SKIING, SNOWBOARDING, LESSONS, EVENTS, AND MORE AT HISTORIC GRANLIBAKKEN TAHOE

Winter 2023 Ski Area Schedule

Tahoe Live festival returns featuring the genre-bending compositions of REZZ and the EDM sounds of Diesel, aka Shaquille O’Neal. | tahoelive.net

After the mountain closes and the winter moon rises, experience a snowshoe tour to the mid-mountain Chalet for an intimate seated dinner featuring Bavarian-inspired, multi-course cuisine. | palisadestahoe.com

“The Tortoise and the Hare: Next Gen”

SKI LIFTS & LESSONS OPEN December 15

Feb. 1 | Fox Cultural Hall | Kings Beach

Lightwire Theater combines theater and technology to bring family-friendly stories to life in darkness and are internationally recognized for its signature brand of electroluminescent artistry. | foxchall.org

SATURDAY NIGHT SLEDDING BEGINS December 16

Xtreme International Ice Racing

Sledding parties also available

Feb. 2 & 3 | Tahoe Blue Event Center | Stateline, Nev.

Ski and snowboard lessons, and equipment rentals begin December 15.

Upcoming Holiday Dinners & Events

Scan for MORE INFO ON 2023 Winter Snow PLay

Dec. 15 & 16 | Village at Palisades Tahoe | Olympic Valley

Dec. 22-March 16 (select dates) | The Chalet | Alpine Meadows

Now Open!

CHRISTMAS DAY BUFFET DINNER December 25

Tahoe Live

Snowshoe Tour + Chalet Dinner

SLED HILL

CHRISTMAS EVE TORCHLIGHT PARADE December 24

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, enjoy free live music on the Village Stage at the ice rink. | northstarcalifornia.com

NEW YEAR’S EVE SLEDDING PARTY December 31

Scan for MORE INFO ON HOLIDAY DINnERS & EVENTS

NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER & DANCE December 31

Speedway bikes and quads are modified and compete on an indoor ice arena. There are more than 2,000 metal studs added to the tires and there are no brakes on the bikes. | tahoeblueeventcenter.com

Brew HaHa*

Feb. 2 | The Nugget Casino Resort | Sparks, Nev.

This fundraiser for Sierra Arts Foundation offers an evening of music, food and more than 100 beers. | sierraarts.org

Truckee Winter Carnival Feb. 2-4 | Truckee venues

The Museum of Truckee History and Truckee-Donner Recreation and Park District is bringing back the carnival featuring sled dogs, ice skating, snow sculptures, historical tours and more. | museumoftruckeehistory.org 18

Dec. 13-26, 2023 | MUSIC, EVENTS & FESTIVALS

Harlem Globetrotters

Feb. 8 | Tahoe Blue Event Center | Stateline, Nev.

See the Globetrotter stars live as they dribble, spin, slam and dunk past their relentless rivals, the Washington Generals. Featuring new levels of trick shots, expert ball-handling skills and big laughs. | tahoeblueeventcenter.com

“Mean Girls” Teen Musical

Feb. 9-18 | Community Art Center | Truckee

“Mean Girls” Teen Edition is adapted from the 2004 blockbuster film and the Broadway smash from book writer Tina Fey. | truckeecommunitytheater.com

Wild & Scenic Film Festival*

Feb. 15-19 | Nevada City & Grass Valley

The 22nd annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival will take place as a hybrid event, both in-person and virtual offerings of filmmakers, celebrities, leading activists, social innovators and well-known world adventurers. | wildandscenicfilmfestival.org

EVERLINE RESORT

Lake Tahoe Winter Reggae Festival

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS

Feb. 17 & 18 | Tahoe Blue Event Center | Stateline, Nev.

This all-ages event features Damian Jr. Gong & Stephen Marley, Collie Buddz, The Green and Miki Rae & The Hooligans on Feb. 17, with Stick Figure, The Movement, The Elovaters and False Rhythms on Feb. 18. | tahoeblueeventcenter.com

SnowFest!

Feb. 29-March 10 | Area venues

Every spring since 1982, North Lake Tahoe has come alive with 10 fun-filled days and nights of events and activities. | tahoesnowfest.org

“Peter & The Starcatcher”

New Year’s Celebrations

Dec. 29-31 | Harrah’s Lake Tahoe | Stateline, Nev.

Celebrate at Harrah’s Peek Lounge for a most memorable New Year’s Eve experience. Party and dance to live DJs each night. | caesars.com

Excision

Dec. 30 & 31 | Tahoe Blue Event Center | Stateline, Nev.

March 8-17 | Lake Tahoe Community College | South Lake Tahoe

4th Wall Down Productions presents this original holiday comedy on the hilarious origin story of Peter Pan. | 4thwalldown.com

Ring in the New Year with Excision, who has spent his career dedicated to the Bass Music scene, leading and innovating in the creation of a massive, passionate Dubstep community. With special guests each night. | tahoeblueeventcenter.com

The Pa’akai We Bring

NYE at Crystal Bay Casino

This original family-friendly production introduces audiences to the Native Hawaiian relationship to pa‘akai (salt). The play follows a family with multiple generations of salt farmers on Kauai. | foxchall.org

Celebrate New Year’s with Boombox both nights with special guest Flamingosis on Dec. 30 at 8 p.m. and N2N on Dec. 31 at 9 p.m. in the Crown Room. | devildogshows.com

March 15 | Fox Cultural Hall | Kings Beach

Dec. 30 & 31 | Crystal Bay Casino | Crystal Bay, Nev.

PAW Patrol live

Neon New Year’s Eve

PAW Patrol Live! “Heroes Unite” is a new production featuring an interactive live stage show, where members of the audience get to be heroes unleashed, helping the pups as honorary members of the pack. | tahoeblueeventcenter.com

Ring in the New Year with Hot Buttered Rum with Jessica Malone on both nights at 9 p.m. Hattie Craven joins on Dec. 30. Come dressed in your best neon for the costume contest. | moesbbqtahoe.com

March 16 & 17 | Tahoe Blue Event Center | Stateline, Nev.

Dec. 30 & 31 | Moe’s BBQ | Tahoe City

“Dancing With the Stars”

New Year’s at Mt. Rose

See the ballroom brought to life in this new production featuring favorite Dancing with the Stars pros, plus special guest stars. | tahoeblueeventcenter.com

Celebrate New Year’s skiing at Mt. Rose followed by a Snowcat Parade at 4:45 p.m., Torchlight Ski at 5 and fireworks at 5:45 p.m. | facebook.com/mtroseskitahoe

March 18 | Tahoe Blue Event Center | Stateline, Nev.

Dec. 31 | Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe

WinterWonderGrass

Fireworks & Torchlight Parade

WinterWonderGrass brings the best of bluegrass, acoustic roots and Americana music, along with California craft beers, wines, spirits and local food in a winter wonderland. | winterwondergrass.com

Ring in the new year with Kirkwood’s on-mountain celebration with the best ridgeline as a backdrop. Starts at 5 p.m. | kirkwood.com CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

April 5-7 | Palisades Tahoe | Olympic Valley

Kirkwood Mountain | Kirkwood

22nd annual

TICKETS NOW ON SALE!

GIVE THE GIFT OF INSPIRATION 5 days of Environmental and Adventure Films, Workshops, Panels, Art, and Inspiration

FEB. 15-19, 2024 Grass Valley + Nevada City, CA WildAndScenicFilmFestival.org 19

MUSIC, EVENTS & FESTIVALS | YourTahoeGuide.com

Mark Mackay

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

NYE Family Celebration

Dec. 31 | Palisades Tahoe | Olympic Valley

LIVE ON TOUR 2023

The evening will kick off with an LED Torchlight Parade at 5 p.m. followed by fireworks. | www.palisadestahoe.com

Truckee Special Performance

Sledding & Dance Party

DECEMBER 27 | 7PM Community Art Center TICKETS: TahoeMusic.net

Dec. 31 | Granilibakken Tahoe | Tahoe City

Granlibakken hosts New Year’s Eve Sledding for all ages from 6 to 9 p.m. under the stars to festive music. Stay for the all-ages Dance Party with DJ Dylan Thomas and dinner starting at 8 p.m. | granlibakken.com

Glow Stick Parade & Fireworks A fundraiser for

Dec. 31 | Tahoe Donner Downhill | Truckee

Enjoy the Glow Stick Parade followed by the annual fireworks show starting at 6:15 p.m. Warm up by the firepits with hot toddies and cocoa. | tahoedonner.com

A Rockin’ New Year’s Eve

Dec. 31 | Heavenly Village | South Lake Tahoe

New year’s eve party!

Th heart of the village will come alive with free live music starting at 2 p.m. with DJ CashMaster. Live music continues with shows at 5 and 8:30 p.m. followed by fireworks and a gondola ball drop at 9 p.m. | theshopsatheavenly.com

Northstar New Year’s Eve

Dec. 31 | Northstar California | Truckee

Dance the night away in the Village at Northstar with a live band and festivities all day including Kids Balance Rances, bike parade, vendors, axe throwing, face painting, rock climbing wall and drone show at 9 p.m. | northstarcalifornia.com

Golden Nugget NYE

Dec. 31 | Golden Nugget | Stateline, Nev.

e seven piecd n a b Seattle

New Year’s Eve Alpine Union Patio exclusive seating will put you front and center to the NYE celebration. | goldennugget.com

with opener

GRASS VALLEY, CA | THECENTERFORTHEARTS.ORG

NYE at Alibi Ale Works

Dec. 31 | Alibi Ale Works | Truckee

This New Year’s Eve show will consist of two sets of Broken Compass Bluegrass starting at 9 p.m. The second set will feature a Tribute to the Grateful Dead. | alibialeworks.com/truckee-public-house

Gar Wood’s NYE Celebration

Dec. 31 | Gar Woods Grill & Pier | Carnelian Bay

Gar Woods’ famous NYE party is back. Enjoy dinner, music by Sawyer, party favors and champagne at midnight. | garwoods.com

NYE Experience

Dec. 31 | Edgewood Tahoe | Stateline, Nev.

Welcome 2024 in impeccable style with this black-tie only event. | edgewoodtahoe.com

New Year Party

Dec. 31 | Bowl Incline | Incline Village, Nev.

Bowl Incline will open for an exclusive celebration starting at 6 p.m. with a gourmet buffet dinner, champagne toast, party favors, bowling, unlimited arcade and billiards. | bowlincline.com

NYE Ultra Lounge Party

Dec. 31 | The Loft | South Lake Tahoe

Ring in 2024 with live entertainment from DJ/Producer Groove Cartel and a midnight champagne toast, delectable cuisine, adults-only Magic After Dark and dancing. | thelofttahoe.com

The Dip: NYE Party*

Dec. 31 | Marisa Funk Theater | Grass Valley

Ring in the new year with rhythm and blues band The Dip and dance 2023 away at The Center for the Arts starting at 9 p.m. Próxima Parada will open the show. | thecenterforthearts.org

Hyatt NYE

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe | Incline Village, Nev.

The Hyatt hosts a New Year’s Eve celebration with a special dinner, live music with a DJ and local band, dancing, cocktails and more. Overnight guests can take part in the Polar Bear Plunge on Jan. 1. | hyattregencylaketahoe.com 20

Dec. 13-26, 2023 | MUSIC, EVENTS & FESTIVALS

PLUMAS SKI CLUB

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Backcountry Safety Awareness Week

Far West Fundraiser

Far West hosts a fundraiser featuring a holiday bazaar, dinner, entertainment and silent auction starting at 3:30 p.m. to benefit Far West Nordic. | Tickets farwestnordic.org/auction

Until Dec. 16 | Area venues

Play Forever Fridays

Until April 5 (select dates) | Boreal Mountain

Ski or ride for a $25 lift ticket at Boreal Mountain; the price includes a $5 donation to local nonprofits. | rideboreal.com

Active Adult Snowshoe Hikes Until April 9 (Tues.) | Area venues

IGVID hosts weekly snowshoe hikes from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for seniors of all abilities at various locations. | yourtahoeplace.com

Backcountry Film Festival

Dec. 14 | Alibi Ale Works Incline Public House

Tahoe Backcountry Alliance presents the Backcountry Film Festival, a celebration of the human-powered experience and a gathering place for the backcountry snowsports community. | tahoebackcountryalliance.org

Christmas Bird Count

Dec. 16 | Sierra Valley venues

The Christmas Bird Count is regarded as the largest and oldest citizen science project in the world. Each year, tens of thousands of volunteers head out into the winter landscape to count birds for a day. | RSVP colindillingham2@gmail.com, (530) 394-8129

Dec. 17 | Tahoe City Yacht Club

“Home, Sick!” premiere

Dec. 21 | Alibi Ale Works | Truckee

Ski For The Love presents “Home, Sick!” at the Truckee Public House at 7:30 p.m. along with a raffle. Filmed on location in Tahoe. | alibialeworks.com

Full Moon Snowshoe Tours

Dec. 26-April 23 (select dates) | area venues

Tahoe Adventure Company hosts Full Moon Snowshoe Tours on two nights each month. | tahoeadventurecompany.com

Guided Snowshoe Tour

Dec. 31 | Tahoe Donner Cross Country | Truckee

Enjoy an evening under the stars this New Year’s Eve with a guided snowshoe tour of the cross-country trails from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. | tahoedonner.com

New Year’s Snowshoe

Jan. 1 | Donner Memorial State Park | Truckee

Kick off the New Year with a guided snowshoe trek through the park at 11 a.m. | Donner Memorial State Park on Facebook

Snowshoe Star Tours Jan. 3, April 3 | area venues

Tahoe Adventure Company and Tony Berendsen present telescopic tours of the night sky. It starts with guided sunset snowshoeing, followed by a brilliant tour of the night sky. For ages 8 and older. | tahoeadventurecompany.com

CoreNation

Alpenglow Winter Speaker Series

CoreNation Tour is a snowboard-only rail jam series traveling across the United States that helps create awareness and financial support for local nonprofits. The contest is jam format. | rideboreal.com

Alpenglow Winter Speaker Series will showcase locals and athletes who share stories of their incredible adventures in the mountains. In-person and virtual options available. Tahoe Guide is a sponsor. | alpenglowsports.com

Dec. 16 | Boreal

Jan. 4, 17, Feb. 15, March 7 | Olympic Village Lodge | Olympic Valley

“Redline Traverse” showing

Tahoe Adventure Film Festival

This film uncovers the history of the Sierra Nevada’s most notorious yet famously undocumented ski traverse. It premieres with a free showing at 3:30 p.m. | eventbrite.com

Enjoy a showcase of the Top 10 action sports films featuring a 10- to 12-minute clip from each of the films. The night includes special guest speakers, action photo displays, break-dancers, DJs and raffle starting at 7:30 p.m. | laketahoefilmfestival.com

Dec. 16 | Red Cliffs Day Lodge | Kirkwood Mountain Resort

Jan. 6 | Bally’s Lake Tahoe | Stateline, Nev.

Nordic Twilight Tours

Backcountry Demo Days

The 2- to 2.5-hour tour begins at the Cross Country, Telemark & Snowshoe Center at 5 p.m. The group will meander through the pine tree-lined forest and ending in The Village at Northstar. Enjoy s’mores and hot chocolate. | northstarcalifornia.com

Alpenglow Sports offers its annual backcountry demo event to perpetuate the enthusiasm for all aspects of in-area and backcountry skiing. Join guides, forecasters, AIARE instructors and gear experts, including demos, avalanche education, guided tours and a raffle. | palisadestahoe.com CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Dec. 16-March 9 (Sat.) | Northstar California | Truckee

Jan. 6 | Palisades Tahoe | Alpine Meadows

MUSIC, EVENTS & FESTIVALS | YourTahoeGuide.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

Poker Run

Ullr Fest

Jan. 26 | Diamond Peak Ski Resort | Incline Village, Nev.

Jan. 6 | Sugar Bowl | Norden

This annual family-friendly scavenger hunt has participants riding or skiing to poker chip stations on the mountain to earn cards in your poker hand. Proceeds benefit local schools. | sugarbowl.com

The annual Ullr Fest is a benefit weekend to raise funds for the Diamond Peak Ski Team. It kicks off with a torchlight parade, bonfire, party and live music. Dress in Ullr attire; the event is named for the Scandinavian god of winter and snow. | diamondpeak.com

Cross-country ski tours

Burton Mystery Tour

Join a free ski tour at 10 a.m. on select Saturdays to explore the park with a historian to learn about local natural and cultural history. Bring gear. Offered Jan. 6 & 20, Feb. 3 & 17, and March 2, 16 & 30. | Register bit.ly/donner_tours

This banked slalom event celebrates community and progression for all ages and abilities with product giveaways, athlete demos and BBQ/après hangouts.| rideboreal.com

Jan. 6-March 30 (select dates) | Donner Memorial State Park | Truckee

Jan. 27 | Boreal

Snowshoe tours

Ski Safety Day

Join a free snowshoe tour at 1 p.m.on Saturdays to explore the park with a historian to learn natural and cultural history. Bring gear. | Register bit.ly/donner_tours

Ski California member resorts will participate in Ski California Safety Day with many offering guest-centric activities and events designed to educate skiers and riders about safety on the slopes. | skicalifornia.org

Jan. 6-March 30 (Sat.) | Donner Memorial State Park | Truckee

Mid-Winter Bald Eagle Count Jan. 12 | Area venues

Tahoe Institute for Natural Science will be coordinating the annual mid-winter Bald Eagle count and volunteers are invited to participate. There are 26 stations located around the Tahoe Basin. Join a virtual slideshow on Jan. 11. | tinsweb.org

Jan. 27 | Area resorts

Audi FIS Ski World Cup Tour

Feb. 23-25 | Palisades Tahoe | Olympic Valley

The Stifel Palisades Tahoe will host men’s slalom and giant slalom events on Dog Leg and Red Dog Face. | palisadestahoe.com

Motorized Avalanche Classes

Silver Dollar Derby

Sierra Avalanche Center is offering Intro, Level 1, Rescue and Level 2 and women-specific avalanche classes for motorized users. Intro classes are free. | sierraavalanchecenter.org

Formerly The McKinney Cup, this event pits some of the fastest skiers in the sport against each other in Giant Slalom. | skirose.com

Jan. 12-Feb. 18 (select dates) | Tahoe Meadows

Twilight Snowshoe Hike

Feb. 24 | Mt. Rose

Carnival Games & Glowstick Parade Feb. 24 | Tahoe Donner Downhill | Truckee

Jan. 19, March 1 & 22 | Diamond Peak | Incline Village, Nev.

Join this 3-mile round trip hike that includes guides, after-hour access to Diamond Peak and Snowflake Lodge and more. | diamondpeak.com

Carnival games for kids of all ages start at 4:30 p.m. and a glow stick parade for ages 10 or younger who can ski or ride unassisted in the dark on Snowbird run at 6:15 p.m. | tahoedonner.com

Raptor tours

Banked Slalom

Join TINS for Raptor Outings in Sierra Valley on Jan. 19 and in Carson Valley on Feb. 2. Wintering raptors typically include Bald and Golden Eagles, Rough-legged, Ferruginous and Red-tailed Hawks, Northern Harriers, American Kestrel, Prairie Falcon and possibly others. | RSVP tinsweb.org

The snake-run-style course is specifically built for the event and features flowy banked turns and creative features that will be sure to leave a smile on your face. | sugarbowl.com

Jan. 19 & Feb. 2 | Area venues

Arcteryx Winter Film Tour

Jan. 20 | Olympic Village Event Center | Olympic Valley

Join an evening to explore ideas, share stories and get stoked for winter with showings of “Darkhorse,” “Continuum,” “Æther 5,” “109 Below” and “Space Craft.” Proceeds support Washoe Tribe Cultural and Outdoor Expedition Program. Michelle Parker, Elena Hight, Tatum Monod and Joe Lax will be in attendance. | Tickets community-events.arcteryx.com

World Championship Longboard Races

Jan. 20, Feb. 17, March 16 | Johnsville Historic Ski Bowl

Johnsville Historic Ski Bowl is the host for the races that recreate the first downhill ski races in the Americas. The events are historical re-enactments of 1860’s era ski racing in the Lost Sierra. | plumasskiclub.org

Snowshoe Trek

Jan. 21, Feb. 8, March 10 | Area venues

Enjoy a leisurely snowshoe trek with experts and friends at the Sugar Pine Foundation who will reveal the mysterious world of trees. | tahoerimtrail.org

Nordic in Nature ski tour

Jan. 23 | Spooner Lake | East Shore

Spend the morning gliding on cross-country skis during an excursion with TINS and Tahoe Rim Trail Association to learn about forest ecology while talking about the plants and animals that make up Tahoe’s wintery ecosystem. | tinsweb.org

Tahoe climate change talk Jan. 25 | TBD

Climate change is already impacting the Lake Tahoe Basin, in response, agencies and communities throughout the Basin are beginning to develop plans and actions to enhance their capacities to adapt. Join this talk to learn more. | tahoe.ucdavis.edu

Feb. 24 | Sugar Bowl | Norden

The Great Ski Race

March 3 | Tahoe Cross Country Ski Area | Tahoe City

The Great Ski Race is the main fundraising event for Tahoe Nordic Search & Rescue Team, a nonprofit all-volunteer organization. Team members, along with community supporters, organize The Great Ski Race, which is one of the largest Nordic ski races west of the Mississippi. | thegreatskirace.com

PinkFest

March 7 | Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe

Pinkfest Tahoe returns to Mt. Rose to benefit Moms on the Run. The day features a women’s ski clinic and more. | skirose.com

Tahoe Freeride Chutes Comp March 9 & 10 | Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe

Competitors take on the legendary Chutes at Mt. Rose with competition on Saturday for ages 14 and younger, with ages 15 and older on Sunday. Spectator viewing areas. | skirose.com

Ididarun Sled Dog Race

March 10 | Tahoe Donner Downhill | Truckee

A fun dog pull race benefiting the Humane Society of Truckee-Tahoe at 1 p.m. | tahoedonner.com

Retro Ski Day

March 10 | Diamond Peak | Incline Village, Nev.

Break out the retro gear to celebrate spring skiing in style. Whether it’s old wooden skis and woolen outerwear, 1970’s stretch pants or neon onesies from the 1980s, they will bring back fond memories. | diamondpeak.com

Family Downhill Challenge

March 17 | Tahoe Donner Downhill | Truckee

Come out and compete in this friendly family downhill GS ski race at 11 a.m. | tahoedonner.com

Dec. 13-26, 2023 | MUSIC, EVENTS & FESTIVALS

Gold Rush Festival

March 18 & 19 | Royal Gorge Cross Country | Soda Springs

This cross-country festival at Royal’s Gorge’s Summit Station classic and freestyle races, along with kids’ races and obstacle races. | royalgorge.com

Wonders of Wildlife & Water

March 19 | Sugar Pine Point State Park | Tahoma

save the date!

Join TINS naturalist Sarah Hockensmith as she leads the way in search of wildlife, water features, and spectacular scenery from a beachy waterfront. | tahoerimtrail. org

Pain McShlonkey Classic

March 23 | Palisades Tahoe | Olympic Valley

Dress up in outrageous ski duds and come out for a day full of belly laughs, camaraderie and philanthropy in celebration of legendary skier Shane McConkey. Festivities include the Extreme Small Mountain Invitational and a downhill race, where pros and amateurs battle it out on snowblades for the Golden Saucer trophy. | shanemcconkey.org

Luggi Foeger Uphill/Downhill Festival

March 23 & 24 | Diamond Peak | Incline Village, Nev.

Competitors race to the top of the mountain using whatever human-powered method they prefer – skins, snowshoes, running shoes, etc. – then ski, snowboard, snowshoe or run back down to the finish line. | diamondpeak.com

Silver Belt Classic

March 25-29 | Sugar Bowl | Norden

The Silver Belt Classic returns with freeride action in some of the most unique terrain in Tahoe. | sugarbowl.com

Slednanigans April 1-3 | TBD

Lake Tahoe Snowmobilers nonprofit hosts its end of season party with hill climbs, camping, gear swap and more. | laketahoesnowmobilers.com

42nd Annual

SNOWFEST

February 29 - March 10, 2024 Mark your calendars for the 42nd annual SNOWFEST in North Lake Tahoe, beginning February 29th.

The Sugar Bowl Uphiller April 6 | Sugar Bowl | Norden

Participants choose the amount of vertical climbing. Each lap an uphiller completes earns him/her additional raffle tickets and a better chance at earning prizes during the awards ceremony. Costumes required. | sugarbowl.com

Banked Slalom

Participate in your fan favorite SNOWFEST events such as the Polar Bear Swim at Gar Woods, Dress Up Your Dog Contest, the Alaskan Open, SNOWFEST Parade, and many more!

April 6 | Boreal

The Boreal Banked Slalom features a costume race to benefit the High Fives Foundation, live music and an après party. | rideboreal.com

Wilderness First Aid

LE ARN MORE AND GE T INVOLVED AT TAHOESNOWFEST.ORG

April 6 & 7 | Area venue

Tahoe Rim Trail Association hosts this two-day course taught by NOLS Wilderness Medicine. It provides a foundation in important first-aid concepts critical to responding effectively to emergencies in remote back-country environments. | tahoerimtrail.org

Dummy Downhill

DAYS OF FUN

April 7 | Tahoe Donner Downhill | Truckee Join the annual end-of-season bash with the Dummy Downhill at 4:15 p.m. Join the fun and enter your own dummy in the competition. This year’s theme is super heroes. | diamondpeak.com

LOCAL EVENTS

Dummy Downhill

April 13 | Diamond Peak | Incline Village, Nev.

Join the fun at the annual Dummy Downhill. Participants build a dummy on skis (or a snowboard) that gets launched off a jump on Show-Off while spectators cheer them on from the Base Lodge Deck. | diamondpeak.com

$100 K

RAISED FOR LOCAL NONPROFITS SINCE 2019

Tiki Pond Skim

April 13 | Sugar Bowl | Norden

Enjoy live music, a pop up tiki bar and a snow beach viewing area to watch the pond skimming action. | sugarbowl.com

@TAHOESNOWFEST

INFO@TAHOESNOWFEST.ORG

YourTahoeGuide.com

THE makers

creative awareness | arts & culture | makers’ movement

Couples that create

Supporting, inspiring one another BY PRIYA HUTNER

guidance, and when he writes, Bobowski helps edit his work. | ryyansalmphotography.com, lalajewelry.com

Kayla Anderson & Jason Forcier

Freelance writer Kayla Anderson and artist Jason Forcier similarly support each other in their creative endeavors. Anderson’s passion is writing and she freelances for multiple publications, including Tahoe Guide. When she met Forcier, she says he encouraged her to take the leap and pursue her writing full-time. The couple also share a mutual love of travel, which led Anderson to write about Northern California road trips for Moon Travel Guides. “Writing gives me the ability to meet so different people,” Anderson says. Forcier is a mixed media artist who uses wall spackling and other household items on canvas. Forcier’s work can be found at Piper Gallery in Truckee.

he swirls of colors on a canvas evoke an emotional response. The shape of metal brought to life in sculpture creates awe. The detail in a piece of jewelry draws your eyes to the body. A sentence evokes imagery of a place or feeling. This is how creatives express themselves through art. Couples that create, whether together or independently, inspire and lift each other up to be their best and most creative selves. Painters can be broody, writers agonize in the face of rejection and artists may doubt their ability but having a partner to bounce ideas off and encourage is a gift. Inspired by love and nature, these local partners support each other’s work and grow together as artists.

Ryan Salm & Lauren Bobowski

Photographer, writer and musician Ryan Salm and jewelry designer Lauren Bobowski of Lala Jewelry are one such creative couple. Each works in a separate home studio while raising their young daughter. Salm is an adventurer. His photos have graced the cover of Tahoe Guide and have been featured in other local publications. Salm’s recent slideshow, “Arabian Dreams,” was featured at the Tahoe Art Haus in Tahoe City. He 24

He is an introvert while Anderson is an extrovert. “I feel like we totally complement each other, and we’re lucky to each have our own creative outlet,” says Anderson. They both support each other’s creative work. Forcier says he helps Anderson when she has writer’s block. “I tell her to mix it up, go out for a run, listen to new music,” says Fournier, who constantly changes his studio around. Fournier listens to Deep House music when he paints to inspire his work. “Jason’s perspective when we travel, what he pays attention to, has helped me in my writing,” adds Anderson. | kaylaanderson.org, jforcier.com

Kath Irwin & Fred Besch

Multi-media artist Kath Irwin and kinetic artist and sculptor Fred Besch met at the Truckee Roundhouse. Both are welders.

photographed his multi-tiered trip that included a stand-up paddleboard trip around the Arabian Peninsula, a bike tour and busking at the World Cup in Qatar.

Inspired by love and nature, these partners support each other’s work and grow together as artists. “I try to keep myself fired up, interested and on top of my game by creating ways to be creative, whether it’s through photography, writing or music,” explains Salm. Bobowski attended art school and started as a painter, eventually leading her to jewelry. “My real drive for creating is just a need. It’s my voice and how I best express what I feel,” says Bobowski, who has honed her creative voice as a silversmith. Her current designs are visual landscape pieces. The couple supports each other with their strengths. If Bobowski needs help with photography, she asks Salm for

TOP LEFT: Various designs from Lala Jewelry. | Lala Jewelry. ABOVE: Jason Forcier in his studio. | Jason Forcier. RIGHT: Fred Besch and Kath Irwin under their wedding arch. | Kath Irwin

Dec. 13-26, 2023 THE MAKERS

LOC ATED IN THE

Besch creates human-powered kinetic bikes that have traveled to Burning Man and his bike sculpture is installed in downtown Truckee. Irwin’s creativity embraces the fierce art of welding with the subtle simplicity of her drawing and the intricacy of the jewelry she creates. Her work can be found at Riverside Gallery in Truckee. She supports jewelry artists Mary Guerra and Sondrea Larson, whose work can also be found at Riverside. Irwin’s drawings and cards are black and white, pen and ink, or charcoal. Irwin explains that she and her husband get each other. They are both curious and love art. “We both feel like creativity is so important to us and our community. We support things like the Roundhouse and

public art,” says Irwin. “As a couple, it’s understanding that creative expression is so important to your soul, and so you have to do it,” muses Irwin. Their love of welding is a bond. Besch, who teaches welding at the Roundhouse, said the couple welded their wedding arch together when they were married last year. | @katieirwinpaints, @worksinmetal n

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t h e a rt s Under Lake Tahoe: Discover What Lies Beneath Gatekeeper’s Museum, Tahoe City, Dec. 13-27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., northtahoemuseums.org Tahoe City Nursery School Presents, “Sunsets of Lake Tahoe” Gatekeeper’s Museum, Tahoe City, Dec. 13-27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., northtahoemuseums.org Holly Arts Fair North Tahoe Arts, Kings Beach & Tahoe City, Dec. 13-27, 11 a.m., northtahoearts.org Tahoe Film Club Zephyr Cove Library, Dec. 13, 3:15 p.m., (775) 5886411, library.douglascountynv.gov That Poetry, by Which I Lived Online, Dec. 14, 4-6 p.m., (530) 470-8440, communityofwriters.org Fridays Fiber Art Craft Time South Lake Tahoe Library, Dec. 15-22, 1-3 p.m., (530) 573-3185, eldoradolibrary.org

Upcycled Book Ornaments Northern Lights Festival, Incline Village, Dec. 16, 1-2 p.m., northernlightstahoe.com Knit & Crochet Zephyr Cove Library, Dec. 21, 3:30 p.m., (775) 5886411, library.douglascountynv.gov Women Reading Women Book Club Glasses Wine Bar, Incline Village, Dec. 21, 6:30 p.m., (530) 270-9463, glasseswinebar.com LGBTQ+ Art Club Fox Cultural Hall, Kings Beach, Dec. 26, 3:30-4:30 p.m., (530) 582-8278, foxchall.org

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THE lineup live music | shows | nightlife

Dance Collective performs ‘Tahoe Nutcracker’

Diesel | Tahoe Live

Tahoe Live features REZZ, Diesel

Indiana Woodward | New York City Ballet

Lake Tahoe Dance Collective returns to the North Tahoe High School Theater for the production of “Tahoe Nutcracker” from Dec. 15 to 17. LTDC’s production of “Tahoe Nutcracker” premiered in 2019 and is set in the ballroom of the Tahoe Tavern on Christmas Eve 100 years ago. This year’s performances will feature two principal dancers from the New York City Ballet – Indiana Woodward as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Adrian Danchig-Waring as her Cavalier, according to a press release. Daniel Baudendistel (formerly American Ballet Theater & Joffrey Ballet) reprises his roles as Herr Drosselmeyer, the magical uncle, and Calvin Thomas (ODC San Francisco) returns as the Nutcracker Prince. Former student and recent graduate of the University of Arizona’s dance program Kristen Flowers joins the cast as Dew Drop. Lake Tahoe Dance Collective’s company dancers Natalia Christian will dance the role of the Queen of the Snowflakes, with Miya LeFrancois as Clara and Harrison Watson-Gibby as Fritz. Rounding out the cast will be artistic director and founder Christin Hanna, as the mother, with longtime-friend Dan Morrison as the Father and the evil Rat King. This year’s production will see some new costumes and set pieces, thanks to a grant from the Parasol Community Foundation, which also sponsors the fees of guest artists. Performances are 7 p.m. on Dec. 15 and at 3 p.m. on Dec. 16 and 17. Tahoe Guide is a sponsor. | laketahoedancecollective.org

The Tahoe Live festival returns Dec. 15 and 16 featuring REZZ and Diesel (aka Shaquille O’Neal) at Palisades Tahoe. REZZ, at 23 years old, is a trailblazing force in the electronic music scene. Her genre-bending compositions, a blend of bass-heavy and minimal tech, have garnered international acclaim, according to a press release. Known affectionately as “Space Mom,” REZZ has released a full album and several EPs on mau5trap. Diesel is a living legend. As one of the most dominant basketball players in NBA history, he has now transitioned into an entertainer. His journey into electronic dance music began in 2014 at TomorrowWorld. The Tahoe Live lineup also includes Disco Lines, Boogie T, Eazybaked, J. Worra, Kowta b2b, Downlo, Levity, Nostalgix, Rusko, Ship Wrek, Truth, Cat Liu and Daneger. | tahoelive.net

Dec. 13-26, 2023 THE LINEUP

festivals | entertainment

voracious appetite, Falstaff conspires to woo the two wealthiest married ladies in town and pocket their riches. However, Mistress Ford and Mistress Page devise a scheme of their own to teach him a well-deserved lesson in Wooing 101. The festival will also feature the musical “Always … Patsy Cline.” Enjoy the touching true story of Patsy Cline’s friendship with a fan, Louise Seger, which started in 1961 and continued until the premature death of the renowned country star. Told through Cline’s music, this humorous and heartfelt tribute features 27 songs and many of her unforgettable hits such as “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces,” “Sweet Dreams” and “Walking After Midnight. Tickets are on sale. | laketahoeshakespeare.com

l i ve WEDNESDAY, DEC. 13 Trivia Night | Incline Public House Incline Public House, Incline Village, 6 p.m. Country Wednesday | Truckee Public House Alibi Ale Works, Truckee, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY, DEC. 14 Winter Concert Incline Middle School, Incline Village, 4:15-5 p.m. Cottonwood Open Mic Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar, Truckee, 6 p.m. Halie Loren Fox Cultural Hall, Kings Beach, 6-8 p.m. Wolves & Friends Live The Good Wolf, Truckee, 6:30 p.m. Thirsty Thursday Trivia Flatstick Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m. Rustler’s Moon Bar of America, Truckee, 8 p.m. Karaoke Nights Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m. Hypnot!C: Journey Into Your Unconcious The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

FRIDAY, DEC. 15

Renaissance Faire set to return in 2024

Valhalla Renaissance Faire

After a three-year hiatus, the Valhalla Renaissance Faire is set to return for the 2024 season from Aug. 24 to 25 at the Tahoe Valley Campground on the South Shore, according to the Faire organizers. The Faire sets the scene of a tiny town in Staffordshire, England, abuzz with the upcoming arrival of Queen Elizabeth and her royal procession. The Faire will feature archery demonstrations, jousting, circus performances, magic and comedy shows, and more, among a seemingly myriad number of musical performance groups. | valhallafaire.com

Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival

Shakespeare Festival announces 2024 season The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival has announced its 2024 season, which will feature the return of one of Shakespeare’s comedies, “The Merry Wives of Windsor” from June 28 to Aug. 25. Meet the rotund rascal Sir John Falstaff and the wise wives of Windsor in one of Shakespeare’s most raucous comedies. With an ego as big as his

Tahoe Live Ft. Rezz & DJ Diesel (Shaquille O’Neal) Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 3-10 p.m. Karrie O’Neal Live Libation Lodge, South Lake Tahoe, 5-8 p.m. Karaoke Night | Incline Brewery & Barrel House Incline Brewery & Barrel House, Incline Village, 6 p.m. Handel’s Messiah (Incline Village) Saint Francis of Assisi, Incline Village, 6:30-8 p.m. Anuhea Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 7 p.m. Tahoe Nutcracker North Tahoe High School, Tahoe City, 7 p.m. Comedy Night in Tahoe City Tahoe Wine Collective, Tahoe City, 7 p.m.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 27

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EVENT CALENDAR

at YourTahoeGuide.com FRIDAY, DEC. 15 CONT’D Jelly Bread 15th Anniversary (Last Waltz Set) Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 8 p.m. Xxmas Burlesque Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8 p.m. Lakefront Live Music Gar Woods Grill & Pier, Carnelian Bay, 8-11 p.m. Dueling Pianos Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Ricky Hays Bar of America, Truckee, 9 p.m. Live Music With Brother Dan Palmer Grand Lodge Casino, Incline Village, 9 p.m. Arty the Party Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m. Karaoke Nights Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m. Magic After Dark Starring Robert Hall The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m. Live DJ Center Bar, Stateline, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

SATURDAY, DEC. 16 Tahoe Nutcracker North Tahoe High School, Tahoe City, 3 p.m. Tahoe Live Ft. Rezz & DJ Diesel (Shaquille O’Neal) Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley, 3-10 p.m. Live Music With Andre Chevalier Tahoe Wine Collective, Tahoe City, 6-8 p.m. Glad Tidings! Concert Truckee High School Auditorium, Truckee, 7 p.m. Cirque Dreams Holidaze Tahoe Blue Event Center, Stateline, 7:30 p.m. Blü Egyptian w/ the Stove Pipes Alibi Ale Works, Truckee, 8 p.m. Xxmas Burlesque Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8 p.m. Lakefront Live Music Gar Woods Grill & Pier, Carnelian Bay, 8-11 p.m. Dueling Pianos Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Ricky Hays Bar of America, Truckee, 9 p.m. Live Music With Brother Dan Palmer Grand Lodge Casino, Incline Village, 9 p.m.

Have you sometimes wished you could spend a holiday sober?

Arty the Party Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m. Karaoke Nights Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m. Live DJ Center Bar, Stateline, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

SUNDAY, DEC. 17 Tahoe Nutcracker North Tahoe High School, Tahoe City, 3 p.m. Glad Tidings! Concert Truckee High School Auditorium, Truckee, 3 p.m. Handel’s Messiah (South Lake Tahoe) St. Theresa Catholic Church, S. Lake Tahoe, 3-5:30 p.m. Bluegrass Jam | Truckee Public House Alibi Ale Works, Truckee, 6 p.m. Live DJ Center Bar, Stateline, 9 p.m. to 12 a.m.

MONDAY, DEC. 18 Live Music Whiskey Dicks Saloon, South Lake Tahoe, 5 p.m. Country Mondays | Incline Public House Incline Public House, Incline Village, 7-10 p.m. Open Stage Mondays | Truckee Public House Truckee Public House, Truckee, 7-10 p.m.

TUESDAY, DEC. 19 Trivia Night | Truckee Public House Truckee Public House, Truckee, 6 p.m. Tuesday Night Blues Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 6 p.m. Millenial Bingo | Incline Public House Incline Public House, Incline Village, 7-9 p.m. Tuesday Night Karaoke The Paddle Wheel Saloon, Incline Village, 8 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 20 Trivia Night | Incline Public House Incline Public House, Incline Village, 6 p.m. Country Wednesday | Truckee Public House Alibi Ale Works, Truckee, 7 p.m. Vicegrip Live Pete ‘n Peters Sports & Spirits, Tahoe City, 7 p.m.

THURSDAY, DEC. 21 Cottonwood Open Mic Cottonwood Restaurant & Bar, Truckee, 6 p.m. Wolves & Friends Live The Good Wolf, Truckee, 6:30 p.m. Thirsty Thursday Trivia Flatstick Pub, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m.

Discover the boutique wines & beers from the Sierra Foothills.

Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m. Rustler’s Moon Bar of America, Truckee, 8 p.m. Karaoke Nights Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m. Hypnot!C: Journey Into Your Unconcious The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m.

FRIDAY, DEC. 22 Karaoke Night | Incline Brewery & Barrel House Incline Brewery & Barrel House, Incline Village, 6 p.m. Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m. The Nutcracker Ballet Bally’s, Stateline, 7-11:55 p.m. Xxmas Burlesque Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8 p.m. Lakefront Live Music Gar Woods Grill & Pier, Carnelian Bay, 8-11 p.m. Dueling Pianos Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Live Music With Brother Dan Palmer Grand Lodge Casino, Incline Village, 9 p.m. Arty the Party Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m. Karaoke Nights Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m. Magic After Dark Starring Robert Hall The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m. Live DJ Center Bar, Stateline, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

SATURDAY, DEC. 23 Down the Rabbit Hole Live Music Tahoe Wine Collective, Tahoe City, 5-8 p.m. Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m. The Nutcracker Ballet Bally’s, Stateline, 7-11:55 p.m. Moe. Crystal Bay Casino, Crystal Bay, 8 p.m. Xxmas Burlesque Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8 p.m. Lakefront Live Music Gar Woods Grill & Pier, Carnelian Bay, 8-11 p.m. Dueling Pianos Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Live Music With Brother Dan Palmer Grand Lodge Casino, Incline Village, 9 p.m. Arty the Party Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 9 p.m.

al A r t, Jewe L o c & St uf f l r y

Karaoke Nights Rojo’s Tavern, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m. Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 9 p.m. Live DJ Center Bar, Stateline, 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

SUNDAY, DEC. 24 Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 4:30 p.m. Bluegrass Jam | Truckee Public House Alibi Ale Works, Truckee, 6 p.m. Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m. Live DJ Center Bar, Stateline, 9 p.m. to 12 a.m.

TUESDAY, DEC. 26 Trivia Night | Truckee Public House Truckee Public House, Truckee, 6 p.m. Tuesday Night Blues Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 6 p.m. Magic Fusion Starring Chase Hasty The Loft Theatre, South Lake Tahoe, 7 p.m. Millenial Bingo | Incline Public House Incline Public House, Incline Village, 7-9 p.m. Tuesday Night Karaoke The Paddle Wheel Saloon, Incline Village, 8 p.m. Dueling Pianos Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 27 Trivia Night | Incline Public House Incline Public House, Incline Village, 6 p.m. Country Wednesday | Truckee Public House Alibi Ale Works, Truckee, 7 p.m. Mark Mackay Live in Truckee Communty Art Center , Truckee, 7 p.m. Dueling Pianos Harveys Lake Tahoe, Stateline, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

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EAT &drink

Dec. 13-26, 2023 EAT & DRINK

food & libations | recipes | delicious events

Tantalizing Tahoe treats L o c a l c o o k b o o k s t o e n j o y, g i f t BY PRIYA HUTNER

t is through writing that the world expands. It is through cooking that our senses are enlivened. Bringing the two together to create a cookbook is pure brilliance. The shelves in my home are lined with fiction, non-fiction and hundreds of cookbooks collected over the years. When I need inspiration, I pick one up and delve deep. If I find a local cookbook, it is added to my shelf. Try some of these cookbooks created by locals, which also make great gifts during the holidays.

“Horror Movie Night Cookbook”

Try some of these cookbooks created by locals, which also make great gifts during the holidays.

What do you get when you’re a fan of horror movies and love to cook? Your get “Horror Movie Night Cookbook” from South Lake Tahoe resident Richard S. Sargent. The concept was born from his love of theater and horror movies. Sargent was performing in the “Woman in Black,” a horror play, at the Valhalla Boathouse Theater when he realized most of his friends hate the horror genre. He organized movie nights where he paired a meal, appetizer or food with each movie. The dinners evolved and thematic evenings, zombie nights or ghost movies set the tone. On the first movie night, he featured “Scream” and served popcorn for a nod to the opening scene. It was through these dinners the cookbook idea was formulated. Each menu in the cookbook is based on something related to each film. Sargent is currently working on the sequel. | facebook.com/ horrormovienightcookbook

The Horror Movie Night Cookbook creator Richard Sargent. | Courtesy Richard Sargent

THE WOOD CHIPPER Courtesy “The Horror Movie Night Cookbook” 1 oz. Old Smoky Tennessee Moonshine 1 oz. strawberry jam .5 C strawberry soda Add the Moonshine and jam to a blender and blend until well combined. Pour the mixture into a rocks glass, add ice, add soda and stir. Serve extra cold.

“The Sierra Forager” “Latino Cookbook Project”

The “Truckee Library Latino Cookbook Project,” a unique cookbook published through the Truckee Library, contains stories and recipes that celebrate the local Latinx community. Nataly Zarate spearheaded the project and gathered the recipes. The cookbook features delicious traditional family recipes and is available to check out through the library. | bit.ly/Latino_cookbook

Where horror is the basis for one cookbook creator, foraging for plants is the inspiration for “The Sierra Forager” by Mia Andler. Andler’s love for edible plants led her to delve into the plants of the Sierra to create her cookbook. Recipes are culled from the plants that grow in the region and are as wild and unique as the earth they are derived from. Stir fry dishes that use wild plants and teas that are created from the leaves of plants that often grow in our own backyard. | thisferalfinn.com

“Pow and Chow”

Locals Hannah and Tim Eddy adopted a plant-based diet, which led them to write a plant-based “Pow and Chow” cookbook. The recipes are simple and made with inexpensive ingredients. It’s also about using a minimal number of ingredients, and most meals can be made over a Jetboil, which also helps the environment. The cookbook includes 45 recipes and is perfect for winter powder days. | @goodeddycreative CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 29

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Keck breaks down her vintner travels, highlighting the grapes and wines grown in the foothills. The recipes are paired with wines such as Nevada County’s Montoliva Vineyard, which includes a Pasta Puttanesca paired with Sangiovese. Sales of the book benefit Tahoe Guide. | yourtahoeguide.com/ wineries_book

“The Mountain Baker”

Professional snowboarder Kimmy Kasani grew up riding in the mountains of Tahoe. Kasani and co-author Mimi Council wrote” The Mountain Baker” for bakers who live above 5,000 feet. It is geared toward the outdoor adventurer and makes high-altitude baking a cinch with more than 100 recipes for successful cakes, cookies, muffins and breads. | kimmyfasani.com/books

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“Cuisine Unique”

The cookbook by Douglas Dale, chef and owner of Wolfdale’s Cuisine Unique in Tahoe City, is a work of art. Through the stories of his life and travels, Dale’s culinary adventure unfolds in “Wolfdale’s Cuisine Unique.” Many of the recipes are Asian influenced with a Tahoe flare. Recipes include Thai Seafood Stew and Japanese Purple Rice, with global fusion woven throughout, while the cookbook includes duck and elk dishes that reflect mountain culture. The recipes are easy to follow and the photography is stunning. | wolfdales.com

“Cocktails on Brenda’s Balcony” was created and written by South Lake Tahoe resident Brenda Simpkins during the pandemic. Simpkins’s cocktail book offers more than 45 recipes, including a Cran-Raspberry Hot Toddy, a perfectly warm winter cocktail. | facebook.com/ brendasbalcony

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Barbara Keck’s book, “Wineries of the Sierra Foothills,” is a unique book that explores the beautiful vineyards and wineries of the Sierra Foothills. The guidebook was published locally by Range of Light Media Group, which is the parent company for Tahoe Guide.

Tahoe resident and nutrition writer Cal Orey has written more than 10 books, including “The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices: A Complete Guide to Nature’s Timeless Treasures.” The cookbook explores how fresh herbs and dried spices can provide medicinal powers, home cures, weight loss benefits, beauty treatments and adventurous flavors and textures to enhance plantbased dishes. | calorey.blogspot.com n Priya Hutner is a food writer, personal chef and owner of The Seasoned Sage, a meal delivery and catering company. | TheSeasonedSage.com, priya@ yourtahoeguide.com

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The new ban in the City of South Lake Tahoe aims to curb the use of single-use plastic water bottles, which are one of Tahoe’s most common types of litter. Plastic bottles can break down over time into tiny microplastics and can pollute Lake Tahoe and other waterways. South Lake Tahoe’s plastic water bottle ordinance went into effect for city-run and permitted events in April 2023. The plastic water bottle ban expands to all businesses in the city on April 22, 2024. Sourced from rain and snowmelt at the top of the watershed, Tahoe Tap offers water of exceptional purity and taste and is 99.5 percent pure, like distilled water, according to the release. Visit the website to find refill locations. | takecaretahoe.org/water-stations

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20% OFF ENTIRE FOOD BILL Sunday through Thursday. Not valid with any other offers. Expires Dec. 22, 2023.

Featuring: Full Bar Northstar Coffeebar

Slow-Roasted Prime Rib

Coffeebar expands Truckee offerings The popular Coffeebar cafe recently opened a location in the Village at Northstar location inside The Hub at Northstar, a co-working space located next to the Ritz-Carlton gondola dropoff. The Northstar location will offer breakfast items as well as pastries and coffee and tea drinks. As well, the Coffeebar Bakery location on Donner Pass Road in Truckee is expanding into the neighboring unit. The expanded café will open in February with a full food menu including more pastry offerings, daily fresh bread, and beer and wine. | coffeebar.com

Take Care Tahoe

Map shows water refill stations Take Care Tahoe has released a new Drink Tahoe Tap Map that lists locations where people can freely fill up reusable water bottles. Local businesses and recreation areas that have joined the initiative are helping with the transition away from plastic bottles by making their refill stations available to the public, according to a press release.

Baby Back Ribs Steaks Seafood Pasta Gourmet Hamburgers Kid’s Menu

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Zander’s Spirits

Zander’s opens Bottle Shop The popular Zander’s Spirits is hosting a grand opening on Dec. 15 for its new, larger location in Truckee at 12047 Donner Pass Road in the old outlets shopping center. The shop opened in November featuring an expanded selection of spirits, beers and wines. The grand opening is from 3 to 9 p.m. and will feature vendors, home bar mixology tips and tricks, and some hors d’oeuvres. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. | @zandersbottleshop

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