Making Spirits Bright: Holiday Happenings in Tahoe Donner

Making Spirits Bright: Holiday Happenings in Tahoe Donner

Alder Creek Adventure Center, Alder Creek Cafe, Association News, Cross Country Ski Area, Downhill Ski Area, Northwoods Clubhouse, Pizza on the Hill, Snowplay, The Lodge Restaurant & Pub

As the snow begins to fall and the holidays approach, Tahoe Donner comes alive with community spirit. Enjoy longtime favorites like Light Up the Night, family movie nights and festive dining at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub, or kick off your winter adventures at the ski areas. However you celebrate, Tahoe Donner has something joyous to make spirits bright.


WINTER BEGINS HERE

Two people in winter gear sit on a snow-covered ski lift. One gives a thumbs-up, both smiling, with bright blue sky and snowy trees in the background.Cross Country Ski Center Opening Day
Friday, Nov. 28 | 8:30AM
Get ready to kick off the season at the Cross Country Ski Center! Enjoy freshly groomed trails, early-season adventures and the start of another beautiful winter in Tahoe Donner.

Downhill Ski Resort Opening Day
Friday, Dec. 19 | 9AM
Get excited for a new season on the slopes at the Downhill Ski Resort and experience the brand-new ski lodge, featuring a cozy dining area, easy-access sun deck and panoramic mountain views. Opening day marks the start of another great winter on the mountain.

2025/26 ski season passes increase in price on Dec. 1 – click here to buy yours today!

Snowplay Opening Day
Friday, Dec. 19 | 12PM
Snowplay is back for another season of tubing, sledding and other snowy fun for all ages. Bundle up and enjoy Tahoe Donner’s ultimate winter playground!


CELEBRATE ON THE SNOW

Ski With Santa at Downhill Ski Resort
Thursday, Dec. 25 | Lifts open at 11:30AM
This Christmas, Santa is trading his sleigh for skis! Enjoy the morning with your family, then come out for hot laps and holly jolly afternoon fun. Ski and ride along with Santa when the Downhill Ski Resort opens at 11:30AM.
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New Year’s Eve Light Parade + Fireworks Show at Downhill Ski Resort
Thursday, Dec. 31 | Starts at 4:30PM; parade check-in at 6:15PM
Join the Tahoe Donner community for a festive, family-friendly NYE celebration at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort. After a fun-filled day on the mountain, enjoy the popular NYE Light Parade + Fireworks Show. Warm up next to the outdoor fire pits and enjoy hot toddies, hot cocoa and more.
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New Year’s Eve Guided Snowshoe Tour at Cross Country Ski Center
Thursday, Dec. 31 | 5-8PM
Enjoy an evening under the stars and fireworks this New Year’s Eve with a guided snowshoe tour of the cross country trails at night! Space is limited; reservations open in mid-November.
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DON’T MISS THE SHOW!
The New Year’s Eve fireworks show at Downhill Ski Resort can be enjoyed from the Downhill Ski Lodge deck or the patio at the Cross Country Ski Center.

GOOD FOOD + GOOD COMPANY

Thanksgiving Three-Course Plated Dinner at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub
Thursday, Nov. 27 | 2-6PM
Enjoy a warm and memorable Thanksgiving at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub, where the spirit of the holiday meets exceptional dining. Savor a traditional turkey dinner, prime rib or butternut squash ravioli, accompanied by comforting sides like mashed potatoes, maple-glazed carrots and cornbread and sausage stuffing. Finish your meal with a classic pumpkin pie or seasonal crème brûlée. Wine pairing and kids menu options are also available. Let The Lodge handle the cooking so you can relax and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Reservations required; call (530) 587-9455.
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Light Up the Night at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub
Saturday, Nov. 29 | Starting at 5PM
Welcome in winter with our tree lighting ceremony at Tahoe Donner’s annual Light Up the Night celebration. Gather with neighbors and friends for a festive evening featuring a kids’ craft station, hot cocoa, s’mores, beer and wine, holiday-inspired cocktails and a special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The fun begins at 5PM, followed by the tree lighting ceremony, photos with Santa and the popular raffle benefiting the Tahoe Ability Program. Don’t miss this joyful kickoff to the holiday season!
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Family Movie Night at the Northwoods Clubhouse
Every Friday | 6PM
Bring your favorite pillow and blanket to the Northwoods Clubhouse for Family Movie Night! Grab dinner and drinks from Pizza on the Hill, kick back and enjoy a mix of new releases, old-school favorites and kid-approved picks. Once a month, kids get to choose the movie, and every fourth week is Old- School Movie Week, featuring classic favorites. Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Free popcorn is provided. Movies will be rated G, PG or PG-13.
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Member BOGO Deals
The Lodge Restaurant & Pub
Wednesday-Sunday Through Nov. 23 from 5-8:30PM

Join us for an exclusive promotion through Nov. 23, allowing our members to buy one entrée while enjoying a remarkable 50% discount on a second entrée of equal or lesser value.

Pizza on the Hill
Friday-Tuesday Through Nov. 25 | 4-8PM

Members! Enjoy your second pizza for 50% off, through Nov. 25. Bring the whole family down to take advantage of this member exclusive BOGO deal, plus the daily happy hour from 4-6PM featuring $7 draft beer and house wine and 25% off all appetizers.

Note: To receive a promotional discount, all parties must be members and present a valid Member ID card.