While we got an early taste of winter this season, the weather in November has been unnaturally warm and ski resorts in Tahoe have pushed back anticipated opening dates until sometime in December. If you were set on a visit to Tahoe for the long weekend, but now not sure what you’ll do without hitting the slopes, have no fear – there are still plenty of events and outdoor activities to enjoy, even without much snowfall. Read on for the best long-weekend activities happening in Tahoe this weekend:

Welcome to Winter Festival at Palisades Tahoe

Photo: Palisades Tahoe

Enjoy family-friendly activities in the Welcome to Winter Festival in Village at Palisades Tahoe Friday and Saturday, featuring live music, holiday shopping, and more! Ride the Aerial Tram to High Camp for beautiful views of the Sierras and Lake Tahoe. Catch a yoga class at Palisades Yoga, offering free classes for Ikon Passholders Friday and Saturday. Get photos with Santa and watch the Annual Christmas Tree lighting with complimentary hot cocoa and cookies. If you’re ready to get a start on your holiday shopping, enjoy exclusive discounts for Ikon Passholders at retail stores like Patagonia, Parallel Mountain Sports, The North Face, and more. The festivities wrap up with a Happy Hour at Rocker on Saturday at 4 pm, and the first 50 guests will receive a complimentary Yeti cup with a drink purchase.

Small Business Saturday

Photo: Tahoe City Downtown Association

The Tahoe City Downtown Association invites you to start your holiday shopping off this season by supporting our local businesses and Shop Small Business Saturday. There will be sales and celebrations throughout downtown Tahoe City, including a photo booth and photos with Santa at the Cobblestone Center, raffles for local gift certificates, and more! Support the community and small businesses recovering from the pandemic while doing your holiday shopping this season.

Enjoy Live Music in Truckee

Photo: Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats

If you’re in the mood for some live entertainment, there are a few spots you can catch some tunes this weekend. Moody’s Bistro in Truckee hosts live music every Thursday – Saturday from 8-11 pm. This week, catch Rustler’s Moon on Thursday, and Robbie Gade All Stars Friday & Saturday. You can also check out Alibi Ale Works on Saturday, where The Darin Talbott Show will be live from 9-11 pm. This award-winning singer/songwriter brings a unique blend of improv and music to his show – get more info here.

Holly Arts Fair

Are you an art lover? Even if you’re just looking for the perfect gift for that hard-to-shop-for someone on your list, you’ll find plenty of beautiful and original one-of-a-kind pieces at the Holly Arts Fair. Local artisans display their handmade and Tahoe-inspired arts and crafts for sale at North Tahoe Arts building. Find special and unique holiday gifts created right here in Tahoe. Open daily from 11 am – 5 pm.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

The weather in Tahoe is forecasted in the 50s and sunny this weekend, making it darn near perfect for hiking, biking, or even taking a stroll along the water. Whether you want to cruise the Bike Path along the West Shore or the Truckee River, hang out at the empty beaches, or find a thrill at the top of a scenic vista, it will be a beautiful weekend for enjoying the great outdoors. Some of our favorite trails are still open and snow-free, so check out this post about hiking trails for ideas. For some moderate hikes with the best views of the Lake, we recommend Eagle Rock, Mount Watson, or Rocky Ridge Road.

We wish you all a happy and healthy Thanksgiving filled with friends, family, good food, and good cheer!