‘Tis the season for peace and joy, although it feels a bit different this year! Despite a year of adjustments and changes, there are plenty of ways to keep holiday traditions alive in a safe and cheerful way this season! Many of us are longing for connection with family and friends, and finding unique ways to do so while staying safe and socially distant. Today, we’ve rounded up our favorite ways to continue spreading holiday cheer, supporting small businesses, and staying healthy and safe this season.
Tune into a Virtual Chorus Concert
We love cozying up by the fire and listing to Christmas Carols. This month, Truckee Tahoe Community Chorus presents its premiere Virtual Chorus Video, “Here We Come A-Caroling” on Vimeo, streaming Dec 1-31, 2020. There is nothing quite like live music, and this holiday arrangement is sure to spark some festive cheer. Stream the video here! Arranged by Josh Sparkman, copyright 2017. Recorded with permission of Beckenhorst Press, conducted by Susan K. Horst and edited by Douglas DeVore and David W. Nelson.
Take a Snowshoe Tour
Snowshoeing is the perfect socially-distanced activity that is fun for the whole family. Tahoe Adventure Company offers a variety of snowshoe tours, from private guided treks, sunset tours, and even full moon snowshoes! They’re taking extra precautions to clean gear and rentals, maintain social distancing, and requiring everyone to wear masks when you’re not actively hiking. They are also limiting their tours to 2 parties per group, so you can enjoy the adventure and feel safe. Studies show that getting outside and being active helps combat stress, so what are you waiting for? Call to book your tour today!
Backcountry Safety Awareness Week
Are you interested in heading out into the Backcountry this year? Now is the perfect time for a backcountry safety refresher – if you are new to the backcountry or consider yourself an expert, it’s always a good idea to brush up on your skills before heading out. Join a virtual conference December 14th -18th for a series of short videos developed by community leaders like Sierra Avalanche Center. Each video will provide detailed information on specific backcountry topics and avalanche education opportunities. The week will culminate with a live Q&A panel with professional athletes on Thursday, December 17 from 7:00 – 8:00 pm. Check out the schedule and complete the registration on the event website to sign up.
Shop Local and Win Prizes
Small businesses need our support more than ever this holiday season. As if the amazing collection of shops and locally made goods wasn’t reason enough to buy all your gifts locally this year, you can also win prizes just for shopping! North Lake Tahoe businesses have teamed up to make holiday shopping even more rewarding this year with a Holiday Scavenger Hunt. Win points for over 100 challenges – some can be done from home, others in North Lake Tahoe. You can join any time, compete on your own or on a team, and win weekly prizes leading up to the grand prize awarded January 3rd. It’s free to join, just download the free Goosechase App, and search for the North Tahoe Shop & Win Contest!
Please remember to adhere to all local guidelines while shopping small this season: maintain social distancing, be aware of limited numbers of customers allowed in stores, and wear your mask. Your patience and support is greatly appreciated by our community! If you’re looking for more ways to support local businesses without leaving the comfort of your couch this season, you can browse the online Gift Card Market or shop online at your favorite stores here.
Stream a New Film
Does anyone else feel like they’ve finished Netflix? If you’re looking for interesting and inspiring films you can’t find online, why not stream a special showing from the Tahoe City Art Haus Cinema. The cinema is a longtime local favorite for indie films and summer drive-ins, and although the theatre is currently closed it is offering a virtual cinema! You can choose from a variety of films and watch from the comfort of your own home. Check out what’s streaming here.
