Tahoe's Best Blog

Fourth of July in Lake Tahoe: What to Do this July 4th in Lake Tahoe

Submitted on: 6/15/23 | by Lindsey Carlson
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Few places are as spectacular to spend the fourth of July as Lake Tahoe for a traditional way of enjoying the great outdoors and a few activities on the patriotic holiday. Between the smell of the pine trees to the attractions that are available in the downtown region, there is much to enjoy for a family-friendly environment that welcomes thousands of visitors each year. Whether going solo or spending time with family, there are several options available depending on your group size and interests.

1. Watch Fireworks

Enjoy viewing a fireworks show over the Lake where the colors and loud pops of the show will prove to be an exciting experience to conclude the day. Known as one of the top fireworks shows in the country, Lights on the Lake is a popular event on the south shore. Those who have lodging near the South Shore will be able to have the best views, as well as specific areas in the downtown area.

2. Go on a Picnic

Dine in the warm weather on Independence Day with a picnic that can be enjoyed right on the Lake or in a wooded area, all with beautiful views. Several picnic areas are located at Connolly Beach, El Dorado Beach, Emerald Bay Beach, Fallen Leaf Lake, Pope Beach, and El Dorado Beach for a convenient way of finding benches to enjoy an outdoor feast on. Families can enjoy buffet-style picnics and pack fourth of July favorites that include potato salad, jello, pie, bundt cake, and chips. Public barbecues are also available, making it easy to cook hotdogs and hamburgers right on-site. For a full list of public beaches and parks visit http://www.tahoesbest.com/places/parkbeach.htm

3. Ride Bikes

Take a tour through Lake Tahoe by riding bikes through the community and exploring new sites. Visitors can enjoy casually riding through the downtown area and visiting the local shops on beach cruisers, or perhaps have a challenge on the rough terrain with mountain bikes. Children's bikes are also available to rent at local shops in Lake Tahoe, making it easy to have a family fun event that involves physical activity and a bit of sightseeing. Find a list of bicycle rental companies here.

4. Go Camping

Enjoy star gazing and cooking over the campfire by camping during the fourth of July. Several locations are available to pitch a tent at local campgrounds and at regional parks for comfortable places to stay, whether in an RV, trailer, or tent. Fishing is also available in several of the areas for a relaxing way to spend time on the water and get a great catch for lunch.

Several of the campgrounds are located right on the water, making it easy to enjoy the views of the fireworks at night while roasting s'mores and lounging around the campfire. For help with setup/breakdown and equipment rental use Tahoe Wilderness Adventures.

5. Enjoy Watersports

Cool off on the lake by enjoying water activities that are available for the whole family for a recreational way of celebrating your freedom. Locals and visitors in the area often try their hand at wakeboarding, water skiing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. With a depth of 6,224, Lake Tahoe is also known as one of the most popular locations to dive in the world. The Lake level varies each year, but is still considered a high altitude dive with the right diving procedures enforced. Equipment is available to rent and lessons are offered through different schools for a chance to explore the underwater world with other divers. For a full list of watersport companies use http://www.tahoesbest.com/Boating/lake_tahoe_watersports.htm

6. Attend the Red, White, and Tahoe Blue Event

Visit the most popular event of the day at the Red, White, and Tahoe Blue Event for a gathering that is available to the public and a great way to enjoy live music for a chance to celebrate your freedom. Several events are held throughout the year, but on Independence Day guests can enjoy activities that are available to all ages and are centered around the holiday. The day begins with the Tahoe Firecracker Trail Trek at Incline Middle School where students and adults can participate in a race that benefits the Incline High School Boys and Girls Cross Country team.

To enjoy a good old fashioned carnival and BBQ, several games and rides are available midday for the youth with food and beverages served. More food will be available for adults at the Wine & Dine event at Aspen Grove where cheese, snacks, and world class wines are served. You can stay a bit longer to enjoy a concert with a performance by the Reno Philharmonic where the orchestra will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the The Star Spangled Banner.

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