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In the spring of 1981, Bob Everson, Marketing Director at Alpine Meadows Ski Resort, approached the Tahoe City Chamber of Commerce and the Visitors & Convention Bureau with the suggestion the North Tahoe Community host a winter carnival. In the early 80s, skiers visited Tahoe primarily during the months of December through February and missed the incredible snow pack that was available in March.
A meeting, to present the idea to interested community individuals was called late in June. Attendees at the meeting included the local service organizations, ski resorts, merchants and lodging property owners. The idea was received favorably and a second meeting was scheduled for mid-July. On July 4, Bob Everson was killed in a boating accident on Lake Tahoe. At the next meeting, it was determined that the community would move forward with an event called "SnowFest!" in honor of Everson.
The mission of SnowFest! was to promote Tahoe's incredible weather and skiing early in March, to encourage tourism to the area at a traditionally off-season time of the year, and to provide an opportunity for the locals to get out and enjoy Tahoe at its winter's finest.
SnowFest! became extraordinarily successful. It was named one of the Top 100 Events in the United States by the American Business Association, and the Top 10 Events in California by the California Department of Tourism. It received media coverage throughout the country in national publications and attracted tourists from across the U.S. and Canada.
The festival consists of approximately up to 100 events throughout the North Lake Tahoe area including a torchlight parade, laser show and fireworks, parades, pancake breakfasts, concerts, bar parties, ski races, dog and pet events, an ice-cream eating contest, a luau, Mardi Gras party, ice carving, a polar bear swim and much more. It is truly an opportunity to go out and play with friends, neighbors and visitors.
SnowFest! provides a venue for fundraising and educational events for many of the area non-profit organizations. SnowFest! is proud to consist of an all volunteer Board of Directors!
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