Celebrated as one of the best July 4th fireworks shows in the nation attracting an estimated 100,000 people, “Lights on the Lake” pyrotechnic display at south shore Lake Tahoe is synchronized to music from patriotic favorites to new chart-topping rock and pop hits.
This will be the South Shore’s exclusive fireworks performance of the season and has been rated a “must see” in prominent travel outlets including CNN, Budget Travel, USA TODAY and NBC’s Today Show www.tahoesouth.com.
With a four-day holiday weekend following are tips for a seamless Fourth of July holiday:
The 36th annual “Lights on the Lake” offers eye-popping arrays for 25 minutes that transform Tahoe’s night sky into dazzling technicolor bursts of multi-colored orbs, exploding stars, butterflies and smiley faces. Sponsored by the Tahoe Douglas Visitors Authority and produced by Zambelli Fireworks (western regional offices are headquartered in Lake Tahoe and Bakersfield, Calif.) the program begins at 9:45 p.m. The event is simulcast on local radio stations KRLT-FM 93.9 and KOWL-AM 1490.
Pro tip: plan ahead to carpool, take public transit/Uber/taxi, bike or walk to popular spectating spots.
Best places to watch the fireworks
Choice viewing spots are South Shore’s sandy beaches include Nevada Beach, Edgewood Tahoe, Timber Cove Marina, and Lakeview Commons/El Dorado Beach area. Guests can also view the fireworks up close while on the lake aboard boats including a paddlewheeler cruise, private charter companies or rented vessel.
Pro tip: with a historic winter and limited beach space it is advised to arrive early, bring shade, sunscreen and drink plenty of water.
Patriotic Tradition
A downtown Fourth of July Parade will honor veterans and highlight community members, businesses, organizations, sports teams, and bands. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at the “Y” (intersection of Hwy 50 and 89) and ends at Bijou Community Park (www.cityofslt.us).
Pro tip: The two westbound lanes of Highway 50 from Stateline to the “Y” will remain open. Motorists can expect delays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the two eastbound lanes of Highway 50 from the “Y”.
Electric Live Music
Live at Lakeview is a free weekly concert series at Lakeview Commons/El Dorado Beach, a mile and half from the state line, Thursday, June 22, from 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The amphitheater style seating offers a breathtaking backdrop of Lake Tahoe. There are a variety of booths featuring local merchants, a beer garden and food (http://liveatlakeview.com).
Pro tip: with limited parking it is suggested to ride bikes and take advantage of the free bike valet, or park nearby at the City of South Lake Tahoe’s Public Library.
The Valhalla Art, Music & Theatre Festival honors Tahoe’s heritage with a season of performances and comedy at the Boathouse Theater, outdoor concerts, festivals, and cultural events. The free Music on the Lawn series kicks off with Red Rose, performing reggae, jazz, blues, rock and funk, July 2 (http://valhallatahoe.com).
A summer lineup of legendary artists will headline the Harveys Outdoor Arena stage during the Lake Tahoe Summer Concert Series. Stars during the holiday week include Rebelution, June 30; Sammy Hagar & The Circle, July 2. For a full summer lineup visit: (https://www.caesars.com/harveys).
MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa showroom schedule hosts classic performers along with new chart-topping groups including The Taj Mahal & Keb’ Mo’ Band, June 24; Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers, July 8 (www.montbleuresort.com).
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe brings west coast rapper/hip-hop artist Warren G, June 30, and all female rock band Hell’s Belles, July 7-8 (www.hardrockcasinolaketahoe.com).
Dazzling Clean Beaches
After the last “Lights on the Lake” rocket goes up and the tens of thousands leave Tahoe South beaches, dozens of dedicated volunteer crews will clean up what was left behind. The Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority and local agencies will again partner to coordinate clean-up, July 5-9. For more information, visit www.LTVA.org/fireworks.
Pro tip: pack-in and pack-out especially on July 4. Consider bringing an extra trash bag to collect items as bins fill up fast.
For real time updates on events, promotions, packages, individual personalized itineraries via Utrip, and “Featured Trips” visit www.tahoesouth.com.
South Shore bookings for the long holiday week are nearly sold out and advance reservations are highly recommended. Some properties require a multiple-night minimum.
Pro tip: consider a late afternoon departure on July 5 and beat the heat by relaxing on the beach - or stay an extra night or two.
