The storm door swung open and in came the snow, just in time for the Thanksgiving weekend. Could this mark the start of a big winter? We’ll just have to wait and see if the snow continues to fall all winter long. But it’s very promising to get snow early; it gives everyone up here a positive feeling, because if the snow comes so will the people to fill the town and enjoy all the wintry activities Lake Tahoe has to offer.
The area is getting into the holiday spirit, and down at the Heavenly Village it’s their time of year to shine. Both figuratively and literally. This year will feature a 45-feet tall Christmas tree in the middle of the village.
The highly decorated tree is lit up every night through December. Then there is the Heavenly Holidays Family Festival that runs December 8-31, with all kinds of events and fun stuff to do and see. Look for Santa and his elves while schussing down the ski trails. Watch some spectacular ice skating performances at the ice rink in the village. Ice sculptors, magic shows, Disney characters roaming the village, and just a regular good time at Heavenly.
Just being in the snow can bring a smile to most people’s faces. The drive through the mountains can be stressful, but the good people with the state transportation departments have gotten so good at keeping the roads clear, traveling to the lake is easier than ever. The snow itself can be a great form of savage entertainment; a big snowball fight is always a hooping and hollering time. Sledding, too, is a wonderful time to spend with family and friends, and both activities build up an appetite. That’s where the Heavenly Village steps up again, with almost countless places to eat, like California Burger Co., with tasty burgers served for lunch and dinner and beyond, staying open till 1:30 am., and Base Camp Pizza Co., serving up great pies that both locals and tourists rave about.
It’s the holiday season, so come on up and make Lake Tahoe your home away from home, and hopefully there will be plenty of snow!
— Brendan Packer
