the story of vanwood
about the festival
VanWood Tahoe is hosted by Boys & Girls Club of Lake Tahoe, in partnership with Kirkwood Mountain Resort and EpicPromise. Picture van-life vibes meeting ski season energy, with authentic Tahoe character woven throughout.
This three-day alpine festival combines camping, live music, food trucks, yoga sessions, on-mountain challenges, and an incredible après-ski scene. All proceeds support local youth programs that provide Tahoe kids with safe spaces to learn, grow, and thrive.
VanWood isn't just another camping event. It's a celebration of outdoor adventure, creative expression, and community connection. You'll have an unforgettable mountain weekend while directly supporting the young people who call Lake Tahoe home.
for the kids!
VanWood exists because we believe mountain culture and community support go hand in hand. This festival is our way of celebrating Tahoe while making a real difference for the kids who grow up here.
The Boys & Girls Club of Lake Tahoe has been a cornerstone of the community since 1991. We serve kids ages 4 through 18 with afterschool and summer programs built around academics, leadership development, healthy living, and creative expression.
Our mission is straightforward: give local youth the tools, mentorship, and safe space they need to become engaged community members and future leaders.
When you buy a VanWood ticket, you're funding real programs that shape real lives. Every dollar goes directly toward keeping doors open, staffing programs, and creating opportunities for Tahoe kids to discover their potential.
Whether it's your van, your favorite beer, or those unforgettable moments under the stars—you're helping build stronger futures for the next generation of Tahoe.
Photo: BGCLT members experience a day skiing at Kirkwood Mountain Resort through BGCLT programs, 2024
Kirkwood mountain resort
VanWood wouldn't exist without Kirkwood Resort and its team. The resort opened its slopes and village to help us bring this festival to life. Together, we're creating a mountain experience that highlights what makes Kirkwood special: stunning alpine terrain, genuine outdoor culture, and a strong local community.
Kirkwood is hosting everything from on-mountain challenges and equipment demo days to après-ski music and a village mini-brewfest. The resort's setting is ideal for a weekend that captures the heart of Tahoe living and mountain culture.