Two organized holiday tree lighting events are scheduled for the 2025 season in the Lake Tahoe and Truckee area.
North Tahoe Event Center Tree Lighting
This event takes place on December 5, 2025, at the North Tahoe Event Center, located at 8318 N Lake Blvd, Kings Beach, CA 96143.
The schedule includes:
- 5:00 PM: Santa Claus arrives by fire truck to light the tree.
- Activities: The event features live holiday music performances, free holiday crafts, cookie decorating, hot soup, and hot cocoa and coffee.
- Cost: Free.
Northstar Village Tree Lighting
This event takes place on December 19, 2025, at the Northstar Village Ice Rink, located at 5001 Northstar Dr, Truckee, CA 96161.
The schedule includes:
- Activities: The event features photos with Santa followed by a performance by the Sierra Nevada Figure Skating Club. The Village remains open for holiday shopping and dining.
Winter Travel Considerations
Driving to events in the Sierra during December requires preparation for winter conditions. Chain controls are common on mountain passes. Before departing, verify the status of the routes:
- From Reno: If traveling via the Mt. Rose Highway, check SR-431 Mt Rose road conditions for potential closures or chain requirements.
- From Truckee: If accessing the Northstar area from the I-80 corridor, monitor I-80 road conditions and SR-267 road conditions for updates on closures or restrictions.
- From South Lake Tahoe: If approaching from the south, consult US-50 road conditions before beginning the drive.
Cameras on the route from Reno to Northstar and Kings Beach.
Grocery and Market Access
While specific "Advent markets" are not scheduled, travelers looking for local provisions in the Truckee area have access to several markets.
- Raley’s O-N-E Market: Offers organic produce and prepared foods, including made-to-order pizzas.
- New Moon Natural Foods: Stocks organic pantry staples and wellness products with bulk bins for spices and tea.
- Tahoe Food Hub: Focuses on local, seasonal produce and meats sourced from farms within 150 miles.
- Mi Pueblito Market: Specializes in authentic Mexican items, including marinated meats, dried hominy, and homemade salsa.
- Buoy & Trap Seafood Market: Provides fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, including crab cakes and Maine lobster rolls.
- Mountain Valley Meats: A dedicated butcher shop offering various cuts of meat and housemade sausages.