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If you’re looking for the perfect way to embrace the magic of the holiday season, look no further than the Heavenly Holidays Family Festival in South Lake Tahoe.
From November 29 through December 31, 2024, Heavenly Village transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland filled with festive cheer and fun for the whole family.
Whether you’re visiting with little ones, a group of friends, or just looking to soak up some holiday spirit, this event has something for everyone.
Festival Highlights
Let’s dive into what makes this festival so special.
Village Community Tree Lighting
The holiday season officially kicks off on Friday, November 29, 2024, at 6:30 pm with the lighting of a stunning 65-foot fir tree.
This dazzling centerpiece sets the tone for the season, and if you miss opening night, don’t worry—nightly tree lightings at 5:30 pm continue through December 25, 2024.
Strolling through the village under the glow of twinkling lights is an experience you won’t forget.
Breakfast with Santa
What’s better than pancakes? Pancakes with Santa!
On Saturdays, December 7, 14, and 21, 2024, your family can enjoy a delicious breakfast while spending time with the big guy himself.
Bring your camera because this is a memory you’ll want to capture.
Meet Your Favorite Characters
For the young (and young at heart), meet beloved characters from favorites like Frozen, Paw Patrol, and Toy Story between December 26 and 30, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
It’s a great chance for fun interactions and some magical photo opportunities.
Heavenly Holidays Ferris Wheel
From December 27 to 31, 2024, take your holiday fun to new heights on the Heavenly Holidays Ferris Wheel.
Operating daily from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, it offers stunning views of the lake by day and the glowing lights of the village by night—all for just $5 per ride.
New Year’s Eve Celebration
The festival wraps up with a grand New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31, 2024.
Starting at 5:00 pm, enjoy live music as the excitement builds for the spectacular gondola ball drop and fireworks show at 9:00 pm.
It’s the perfect way to ring in the New Year with a touch of Tahoe magic.
Even More Festive Fun
If that’s not enough, there are plenty of other activities to keep you and your loved ones entertained:
- Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus: Snap a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus in a beautiful Tahoe winterscape from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm throughout December.
- Build-A-Bear Workshop: From December 27 to 31, 2024, kids can create their very own furry friend at 4:00 pm each day—an adorable keepsake to remember their holiday adventure.
- Holiday Paint & Sip: Get creative on Saturdays in December with guided holiday-themed painting sessions. These fun classes start at noon and are perfect for adults looking to unwind (and sip!) during the festivities.
- Champagne & Chocolate Sleigh Ride Tasting: Fridays through Mondays in December, from 2:00 am – 7:30 am. Enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh or carriage tour paired with champagne and chocolate. ($75 per person; reservations required.)
- Frosty Shoreline Snowshoe Experience: Fridays and Saturdays in December at 5:00 pm. Snowshoe along Tahoe’s icy shores with complimentary snowshoes and a cocktail. ($20 per person; weather permitting.)
- Ugly Sweater Ski Day: December 23–25, 2024. Wear your ugliest holiday sweater while skiing or riding and enjoy après-ski happy hour at Tamarack Lodge from 3:00–5:00 pm.
- Holiday Market at South Lake Brewing Co.: Saturdays in December, from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Browse local artisan stalls for handcrafted gifts while enjoying seasonal treats.
- Winter Photography Workshop: December 14, 2024, at 2:30 pm. Learn photography tips for capturing Tahoe’s winter beauty at Twilight and Rust Gallery.
- Pre-New Year’s Eve Live Entertainment: December 30, 2024, at 6:00 pm. Enjoy live performances by Morgan Myles, Mark Mackay, and Jack Pavlina on the Main Stage as a warm-up to New Year’s Eve.
From crafting your own Build-A-Bear to enjoying festive live music, these events make December in Lake Tahoe a season filled with joy, adventure, and holiday magic.
Plan Your Visit
With so much to see and do, the Heavenly Holidays Family Festival is the ultimate destination for holiday cheer.
Whether you’re snapping photos with Santa, gliding on the Ferris wheel, or ringing in the New Year under a sky full of fireworks, you’re sure to create memories that last a lifetime.
Mark your calendar and explore more December events in Lake Tahoe on our website!
Don’t miss our ultimate guide to visiting Lake Tahoe in December, packed with the best recommendations for activities and must-visit spots.
About the author: Sherry Boyer
Sherry Boyer has lived in the Reno/Tahoe region for seven years, and she and her husband spent decades visiting Lake Tahoe several times a year before they moved here. With extended family around the lake, they spend their free time hiking the trails, boating on Lake Tahoe and Pyramid Lake, and fishing all over the area. Sherry writes Lake Tahoe Travel Tips to share the places they love with visitors.
