Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain is renowned not only for its exceptional skiing and snowboarding but also for its vibrant calendar of events. Whether you are a snow enthusiast or someone who loves mountain festivals, Mammoth Mountain offers a range of annual events that make it a premier destination year-round. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated events you won’t want to miss.
Winter Events
1. Opening Day Celebration
Kick off the winter season with Mammoth Mountain’s Opening Day Celebration in early November. This event marks the official start of the ski season, complete with live music, giveaways, and the much-anticipated first chair of the season. The festive atmosphere is perfect for getting into the winter spirit.
2. Night of Lights
Every December, Mammoth Mountain hosts the Night of Lights, a family-friendly event that illuminates the night sky with a spectacular fireworks show. The event features torchlight parades, live music, and a visit from Santa Claus, making it a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
3. New Year’s Eve Celebration
Ring in the New Year at Mammoth Mountain with a lively celebration that includes live music, a firework display, and a countdown to midnight. The New Year’s Eve Celebration at The Village at Mammoth is a popular event, offering plenty of entertainment and a festive atmosphere.
Spring Events
1. Spring Fest
As the snow begins to melt and the days get longer, Mammoth Mountain transitions into Spring Fest, usually held in April. This event features a mix of on-mountain and après-ski activities, including pond skimming, live music, and themed parties. Spring Fest is a fun way to celebrate the end of the ski season.
2. Mammoth Invitational
The Mammoth Invitational is an annual fundraising event that supports the Mammoth Mountain Community Foundation. This three-day event in April includes ski races, live and silent auctions, and plenty of après-ski activities. It’s a great opportunity to support a good cause while enjoying the slopes.
Summer Events
1. Fourth of July
Celebrate Independence Day at Mammoth Mountain with a variety of activities, including a parade in The Village, a firework display, and outdoor concerts. The summer weather and beautiful mountain scenery provide the perfect backdrop for a patriotic celebration.
2. Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza
Every August, Mammoth Mountain hosts the Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza, one of the largest beer and music festivals in the region. The event features over 80 craft breweries, live blues music, and delicious food. It’s a must-attend event for beer lovers and music enthusiasts.
3. Kamikaze Bike Games
For mountain biking enthusiasts, the Kamikaze Bike Games in September are a highlight of the summer season. This multi-day event features a variety of races, including downhill, cross-country, and enduro, as well as a bike expo and live entertainment. It’s a thrilling event for participants and spectators alike.
4. Mammoth Yacht Club
Don’t let the name fool you—Mammoth Mountain’s Yacht Club event is all about summer fun on the slopes. Held in July, this whimsical event brings a beach party atmosphere to the mountains. Participants dress in nautical-themed costumes and participate in various on-mountain activities, including a beach-themed obstacle course and paddleboard races on snow. The event culminates with a lively après-ski party featuring tropical drinks and live music.
Fall Events
1. Mammoth Oktoberfest
Experience a taste of Bavaria in the Eastern Sierra at Mammoth Oktoberfest, typically held in late September. The event features traditional German food, beer, live music, and fun activities for the whole family. It’s a great way to enjoy the fall colors and mountain air.
Year-Round Events
1. Woolly’s Weekend Parade
Every Saturday during the winter and summer seasons, kids can join Woolly, Mammoth Mountain’s beloved mascot, for a fun parade through The Village. The parade features music, dancing, and plenty of photo opportunities with Woolly and friends.
Big Bear Mountain Resort
Winter Events
1. Opening Day Celebration
The winter season at Big Bear Mountain Resort kicks off with a bang in mid-November. The Opening Day Celebration features the first chair of the season, live music, giveaways, and plenty of excitement as skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes for the first time. It’s a great way to start the winter with energy and enthusiasm.
2. New Year’s Eve Torchlight Parade
Ring in the New Year with a dazzling torchlight parade down the slopes of Snow Summit. This event, held on New Year’s Eve, includes a stunning display of torch-bearing skiers and snowboarders winding their way down the mountain. The festivities continue with fireworks, live music, and celebrations at the base of the mountain.
3. Goldsmith Race Series
The Goldsmith Race Series is a winter-long event that invites skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities to compete in a series of races. Held from January through March, this series offers a fun and competitive environment for participants to test their skills and vie for the top spot in their division.
Spring Events
1. Bear Break
As winter turns to spring, Big Bear Mountain Resort hosts Bear Break, typically in March. This event features a week of on-mountain fun, including pond skimming, rail jams, live music, and après-ski parties. Bear Break is a great way to celebrate the end of the ski season with a mix of spring skiing and festive activities.
2. Easter Egg Hunt
Celebrate Easter at Big Bear Mountain with an annual Easter Egg Hunt. Held in April, this family-friendly event includes egg hunts for different age groups, visits from the Easter Bunny, and plenty of treats and prizes. It’s a fun way for families to enjoy the mountain and celebrate the holiday together.
Summer Events
1. Craft & Crank Festival
Big Bear Mountain Resort transforms into a summer paradise with the Craft & Crank Festival, typically held in June. This event combines mountain biking with craft beer, featuring a variety of bike races, a beer garden with local and regional craft breweries, live music, and food vendors. It’s a must-attend event for biking enthusiasts and beer lovers alike.
2. Spartan Race
For those seeking a challenge, the Spartan Race at Big Bear Mountain is an intense obstacle course race held in May. Participants tackle a grueling course filled with obstacles, mud, and steep climbs, all set against the stunning backdrop of Big Bear Lake. The event attracts athletes from all over and offers different race categories to accommodate various fitness levels.
3. Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
Celebrate Independence Day at Big Bear Mountain with a breathtaking fireworks display over Big Bear Lake. The Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular includes live music, family-friendly activities, and a vibrant atmosphere as visitors gather to enjoy the show. The reflection of fireworks on the lake creates a magical experience.
Fall Events
1. Hot Dawgz & Hand Rails
Kicking off the winter pre-season, Hot Dawgz & Hand Rails is a highly anticipated event in September. This rail jam competition features top snowboarders showcasing their skills on custom-built features. The event also includes live music, vendor booths, and the chance to preview the latest gear for the upcoming season.
2. Oktoberfest
Big Bear’s Oktoberfest, held from September through October, is one of Southern California’s most beloved fall traditions. This event features traditional German food, beer, music, and dancing. With activities like log sawing competitions, stein holding contests, and a children’s fun zone, Oktoberfest offers fun for the whole family.
Year-Round Events
1. Night Sessions
Big Bear Mountain Resort offers Night Sessions during the winter season, allowing guests to hit the slopes under the stars. With extended lift hours, night skiing and snowboarding provide a unique and exhilarating experience. Night Sessions are typically held on weekends and holidays throughout the winter.
Sugar Bowl Resort
Nestled in the scenic Sierra Nevada mountains, Sugar Bowl Resort is a hidden gem known for its rich history, epic powder, and friendly atmosphere. Beyond its exceptional skiing and snowboarding, Sugar Bowl offers a variety of annual events that make it a vibrant destination throughout the year. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated events that keep visitors coming back season after season.
Winter Events
1. Opening Day Celebration
Kick off the winter season in style with Sugar Bowl Resort’s Opening Day Celebration, typically held in late November or early December. This event marks the official start of the ski season and includes festivities such as live music, giveaways, and the excitement of catching the first chair of the season.
2. Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks
Experience the magic of the holidays with Sugar Bowl’s Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks. This family-friendly event features a dazzling parade of skiers and snowboarders carrying torches down the mountain, followed by a spectacular fireworks display. Hot cocoa and holiday cheer abound, making it a memorable evening for all ages.
3. New Year’s Eve Celebration
Ring in the New Year at Sugar Bowl Resort with a lively celebration that includes live music, a torchlight parade, fireworks, and festivities at Judah Lodge. It’s a fantastic way to welcome the new year amidst the stunning backdrop of the snow-covered mountains.
4. Banked Slalom
Held in February, the Banked Slalom is a popular event that draws snowboarders from near and far. Competitors race down a winding course with banked turns, showcasing their speed and skill. This event is a fun and challenging way for snowboarders to test their abilities and compete for bragging rights.
Spring Events
1. St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
Join the festivities on St. Patrick’s Day with Sugar Bowl’s annual celebration, featuring themed activities, live music, and plenty of green attire. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the slopes while taking part in the holiday spirit, complete with Irish-inspired food and drinks.
2. Pond Skim
As the ski season winds down, the annual Pond Skim event in April is a springtime favorite. Participants dress in outrageous costumes and attempt to ski or snowboard across a man-made pond. This fun and entertaining event is a highlight of the spring season, drawing crowds of spectators and participants alike.
Summer Events
1. Castle Peak 100K
The Castle Peak 100K is an ultra-trail running event held in August that challenges even the most experienced runners. The course takes participants through the rugged terrain of the Sierra Nevada, offering breathtaking views and a true test of endurance. It’s a must-do for trail running enthusiasts looking for a summer adventure.
2. Euer Valley Bike Bash
Mountain biking enthusiasts can enjoy the Euer Valley Bike Bash, a summer event featuring various bike races and challenges. This event caters to riders of all skill levels, with different courses and categories to ensure everyone has a great time. The beautiful scenery and camaraderie among participants make it a standout event.
Fall Events
1. Oktoberfest
Celebrate the arrival of fall with Sugar Bowl’s Oktoberfest, typically held in late September or early October. This family-friendly event features traditional German food, beer, live music, and fun activities such as a stein-holding contest and log-sawing competitions. It’s a great way to enjoy the crisp mountain air and vibrant fall foliage.
Year-Round Events
1. Monthly Local’s Day
Sugar Bowl Resort celebrates its local community with Monthly Local’s Day events, offering special deals and activities for local residents. These events are held throughout the year and include discounted lift tickets, food and beverage specials, and a chance to connect with fellow locals.
Palisades Tahoe
Palisades Tahoe, formerly known as Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, is a renowned ski resort nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Known for its world-class skiing and stunning alpine scenery, Palisades Tahoe is also home to a vibrant calendar of annual events. From thrilling winter competitions to lively summer festivals, there’s always something exciting happening at this iconic destination. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated events that draw visitors year-round.
Winter Events
1. Opening Day Celebration
Kick off the winter season with Palisades Tahoe’s Opening Day Celebration in late November. Skiers and snowboarders eagerly await the first chair of the season, and the day is filled with festivities, including live music, giveaways, and plenty of excitement as the lifts start turning for another epic season.
2. Merry Days & Holly Nights
Embrace the holiday spirit with Merry Days & Holly Nights, a series of festive events held throughout December. This family-friendly celebration includes Santa sightings, ice skating, holiday crafts, live performances, and more. The highlight is the torchlight parade and fireworks display, creating a magical atmosphere for all ages.
3. Audi FIS Ski World Cup
In early March, Palisades Tahoe hosts the Audi FIS Ski World Cup, attracting the world’s top alpine ski racers. This prestigious event features thrilling downhill and slalom races, providing spectators with an opportunity to witness world-class athleticism up close. The event also includes live entertainment, athlete meet-and-greets, and an electric atmosphere.
4. SnowFest!
SnowFest! is a beloved North Lake Tahoe tradition that spans ten days in March, with many events taking place at Palisades Tahoe. This winter carnival includes a variety of activities, such as parades, parties, polar bear swims, and the famous Dog Pull, where dogs compete in pulling sleds. SnowFest! is a community celebration of winter fun and entertainment.
Spring Events
1. WinterWonderGrass
WinterWonderGrass is a unique music festival held in early April, combining live bluegrass and roots music with craft beer tastings and spring skiing. The festival features multiple stages with performances by top bands, as well as beer and cider samplings from regional breweries. It’s a perfect blend of music, brews, and mountain vibes.
2. Cushing Crossing
The Cushing Crossing is Palisades Tahoe’s signature spring event, held in late April or early May. This pond-skimming competition challenges participants to ski or snowboard across a pond in outrageous costumes. The event is judged on style, creativity, and crowd appeal, making it a hilarious and highly entertaining spectacle for participants and spectators alike.
Summer Events
1. Made in Tahoe Festival
The Made in Tahoe Festival, held over Memorial Day weekend, celebrates all things local. The event showcases local artisans, businesses, chefs, and entertainers, offering a diverse array of products and performances. With live music, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s a great way to kick off the summer season.
2. Broken Arrow Skyrace
The Broken Arrow Skyrace, held in June, is an exhilarating trail running event that attracts elite runners from around the world. The race features challenging courses that navigate the rugged terrain of Palisades Tahoe, including steep climbs, technical descents, and breathtaking views. It’s a must-do event for trail running enthusiasts.
3. Brews, Jazz & Funk Fest
Every August, the Brews, Jazz & Funk Fest brings together craft breweries, live music, and mountain scenery for a weekend of fun and relaxation. The festival features performances by jazz and funk bands, along with tastings from regional breweries. Proceeds from the event support local nonprofit organizations, making it a feel-good celebration.
Fall Events
1. Oktoberfest
Experience a taste of Bavaria at Palisades Tahoe’s Oktoberfest in late September. This family-friendly event features traditional German food, beer, music, and dancing. Activities include keg rolling, stein holding contests, and a bratwurst toss, providing plenty of entertainment for all ages. The stunning fall foliage adds to the festive atmosphere.
2. Tahoe Trail 100
The Tahoe Trail 100 is a challenging mountain bike race held in July, featuring a 100-kilometer course that winds through the picturesque trails of Palisades Tahoe. The race is a qualifier for the renowned Leadville Trail 100 MTB, attracting competitive cyclists from near and far. It’s a thrilling test of endurance and skill against a backdrop of stunning alpine scenery.
Year-Round Events
1. Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows Farmers’ Market
From June to September, the weekly Farmers’ Market offers fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts from local vendors. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the community vibe and pick up some delicious and unique items.
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Nestled on the border of California and Nevada, Heavenly Mountain Resort offers breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and a vibrant array of activities for all seasons. Beyond its world-class skiing and snowboarding, Heavenly hosts a variety of annual events that bring excitement and entertainment to visitors throughout the year. Here’s a look at some of the most anticipated events at Heavenly Mountain Resort.
Winter Events
1. Opening Day Celebration
The winter season at Heavenly kicks off with the Opening Day Celebration in mid-November. Eager skiers and snowboarders line up for the first chair of the season, and the day is filled with live music, giveaways, and festivities that set the tone for an exciting winter ahead.
2. Heavenly Holidays
Celebrate the holiday season with Heavenly Holidays, a month-long festival from late November through New Year’s Eve. This family-friendly event includes a nightly tree lighting ceremony, ice sculpting, live music, fireworks, and visits from Santa Claus. The highlight is the New Year’s Eve celebration with a gondola ball drop and a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Tahoe.
3. Christmas Day Torchlight Parade
Experience the magic of Christmas with the annual Christmas Day Torchlight Parade. Skiers and snowboarders, dressed in holiday attire, glide down the mountain with torches, creating a beautiful light display. The event is followed by a festive celebration with hot cocoa, cookies, and holiday cheer.
4. Spring Loaded
As winter transitions to spring, Heavenly’s Spring Loaded event in March and April offers a mix of on-mountain fun and après-ski activities. Highlights include pond skimming, live music, and themed parties. It’s a great way to enjoy the longer days and warmer weather while still hitting the slopes.
Summer Events
1. Heavenly Mountain Run
The Heavenly Mountain Run in late July is a challenging yet rewarding event for runners of all levels. Participants start at the California Base Lodge and race up to the top of the Heavenly Gondola, covering a vertical climb of over 2,000 feet. The breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe from the finish line make the effort worthwhile.
2. Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series
From June through August, the Heavenly Village Summer Concert Series brings live music to the heart of the resort every weekend. Visitors can enjoy a variety of musical genres, from rock and country to jazz and blues, in a vibrant outdoor setting. The concerts are free and family-friendly, making them a perfect evening activity.
3. 4th of July Celebration
Celebrate Independence Day at Heavenly with a spectacular 4th of July Celebration. The event features live music, family activities, and a dazzling fireworks display over Lake Tahoe. The Village at Heavenly comes alive with patriotic festivities, creating a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Fall Events
1. Fall Fest
Enjoy the beauty of autumn at Heavenly’s Fall Fest in October. This family-friendly event includes pumpkin decorating, hay rides, a costume contest, and seasonal treats. The stunning fall foliage and crisp mountain air provide the perfect backdrop for a day of fun and festivities.
Year-Round Events
1. Heavenly Ski & Snowboard School Events
Heavenly’s Ski & Snowboard School hosts a variety of events throughout the winter season, including special clinics, races, and themed days. These events are designed to help skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities improve their skills while having fun on the mountain.
2. Heavenly Guided Hikes
Explore the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada with Heavenly Guided Hikes, available during the summer and fall months. These guided hikes offer a chance to learn about the local flora, fauna, and geology while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe. It’s a great way to experience the mountain off the slopes.
Northstar California Resort
Nestled in the picturesque Sierra Nevada mountains, Northstar California Resort is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. While it’s renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, Northstar also offers a variety of annual events that keep visitors entertained throughout the year. From festive winter celebrations to vibrant summer festivals, here’s a look at some of the most exciting events at Northstar California Resort.
Winter Events
1. Opening Day Celebration
Northstar kicks off the winter season with an Opening Day Celebration in late November. This event marks the official start of the ski and snowboard season, with festivities including live music, giveaways, and plenty of excitement as the lifts begin to turn. It’s the perfect way to welcome another season of snow-filled fun.
2. Noel Nights
Noel Nights, held on select Fridays in December, transform The Village at Northstar into a winter wonderland. This family-friendly event features ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides, live music, and holiday crafts. With visits from Santa Claus, festive decorations, and holiday treats, Noel Nights are a magical way to celebrate the holiday season.
3. New Year’s Eve Celebration
Ring in the New Year with Northstar’s New Year’s Eve Celebration. The event includes ice skating performances, live music, and a spectacular fireworks display. The highlight is the annual torchlight parade, where skiers and snowboarders descend the mountain with torches, creating a beautiful, glowing procession.
4. Snowshoe Social & Race Series
From January through March, Northstar hosts the Snowshoe Social & Race Series, a fun and competitive event for snowshoe enthusiasts. Participants can choose from a 5K or 10K course, with the option to race or simply enjoy a social snowshoe trek. Each event concludes with a post-race party featuring food, drinks, and raffle prizes.
Spring Events
1. Spring It On
As the snow begins to melt and the days grow longer, Northstar celebrates the arrival of spring with the Spring It On festival in March and April. This event features pond skimming, live music, themed parties, and on-mountain competitions. It’s a great way to enjoy the last days of the ski season with plenty of fun and festivities.
2. Retro Ski Day
Retro Ski Day in April invites guests to don their best vintage ski attire and hit the slopes in style. With a costume contest, live music, and retro-themed après-ski parties, this event is a nostalgic celebration of skiing’s colorful past.
Summer Events
1. Beerfest & Bluegrass Festival
The annual Beerfest & Bluegrass Festival, held in July, is a summer highlight at Northstar. The festival features an impressive lineup of craft breweries, offering tastings of their best brews, accompanied by live bluegrass music. With delicious food, family-friendly activities, and scenic mountain views, it’s a must-attend event for beer and music lovers.
2. Autumn Food & Wine Festival
Every September, the Autumn Food & Wine Festival showcases the best of the region’s culinary and wine offerings. This multi-day event includes cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, gourmet dinners, and a culinary competition. With breathtaking fall foliage as a backdrop, the festival offers a feast for the senses.
3. Tahoe Trail 100
The Tahoe Trail 100, held in July, is a challenging mountain bike race that takes riders through the stunning terrain of Northstar and the surrounding areas. This 100-kilometer race is a qualifier for the renowned Leadville Trail 100 MTB, attracting competitive cyclists from near and far. It’s an exhilarating test of endurance and skill.
Fall Events
1. Oktoberfest
Celebrate the arrival of fall with Northstar’s Oktoberfest in late September. This family-friendly event features traditional German food, beer, music, and dancing. Activities include a bratwurst toss, stein-holding contests, and pumpkin decorating, providing fun for all ages. The beautiful fall colors add to the festive atmosphere.
Year-Round Events
1. Mountain Yoga Series
The Mountain Yoga Series offers a unique way to experience Northstar’s natural beauty throughout the year. Held on select weekends, these outdoor yoga sessions take place at scenic locations around the resort, providing a peaceful and rejuvenating experience. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, it’s a great way to connect with nature and find your zen.
2. Village Concert Series
From summer through fall, the Village Concert Series brings live music to The Village at Northstar on select weekends. Visitors can enjoy a variety of musical genres, from rock and folk to blues and jazz, in a vibrant outdoor setting. The concerts are free and family-friendly, making them a perfect evening activity.