Tahoetainment

Courtesy of Sambda artists

SambaDá, the west coast’s hottest Brazilian funk band

There’s some form of free summer entertainment in North Lake Tahoe / Truckee almost daily. From movies in the park to concerts on the beach and live music in the villages, there is no shortage of getting your groove on or kicking back as the sunsets. Aside from the weekly events there are three big summer events that are worth the trip. Here’s why.

Wanderlust

This outstanding yoga / music festival produced by a dynamic couple and their team out of Brooklyn, NY is such a blast – I love it and don’t even practice yoga.

Every year since it started, the Village at Squaw Valley comes alive with yogis, activities ranging from arts and crafts to hoola hoop classes, guided hikes and intriguing talks. Every year there is something new. On tap for later this month –- a nature photography workshop, sunrise and sunset hikes with music inspired by the natural world and Wanderlust Happy Hour with live music and hosted drinks from Tito's Handmade Vodka and Búcha Live Kombucha plus a weekend long Adventure Race. For the first time, daily family yoga classes will also be offered. Discover mindful adventures at Wanderlust Squaw Valley from July 17-20.

Trails & Vistas: Art at Altitude

Approaching its eleventh season, Trails & Vistas brings diverse and captivating artistic talent to both the hiking trail and Shakespeare Amphitheater at Sand Harbor.

On September 6 and 7, guided art hikes at Spooner Lake will feature a dozen stops with original performances by artists, musicians, storytellers, dancers and aerialists. Meditative (adults-only) as well as leisurely and family hikes are offered. In addition to the well-attended art hikes which sell out every year, Trails and Vistas World Concert features acclaimed musicians including SambaDá, the west coast’s hottest Brazilian funk band out of Santa Cruz and collaborative performances that inspire and delight.

Featured Trails & Vistas artists include Ann Licater who will play Native American and world flutes, earth artist Andres Amador (most known for his large scale beach art), violinist Scarlet Rivera, the 30-piece San Jose State University Symphony Orchestra, Jet Black Pearl and so many other talented and acclaimed performers and artists.

Early bird art hike pricing (available through July 15) is $30 for adults and $10 for children. For more information and tickets, visit trailsandvistas.org.

Food & Wine Festival

Dozens of informative sessions, delicious tastings and experiences await at The Village at Northstar the same weekend as Trails & Vistas – it is the time to visit!

Want a quick run down of those no cost weekly happenings, too?

Monday – Movies in the park in King Beach

Tuesday – Bluesdays at Squaw Valley

Wednesday – Concerts in the Truckee Regional Park, Movies on Commons Beach

Thursday – Concerts in the Park on the Gatekeeper Museum grounds

Friday – Music on Kings Beach, Family Movie Night in Tahoe Donner

Saturday – Date night! Create your bliss.

Sunday – Concerts at Commons Beach followed by live music at Jake’s on the Lake