Celebrating Fresh Sierra Snowfall Ahead of Inaugural VanWood Festival Weekend

Photograph from Kirkwood Mountain Resort

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. April 2, 2026 - Just a week before its debut, VanWood is welcoming a major dose of fresh Sierra snow. Kirkwood Mountain Resort has received up to 18 inches of new snowfall this week, setting the stage for prime spring riding conditions during the inaugural VanWood Tahoe festival, taking place April 10-12, 2026.

Programming spans the entire weekend, with gatherings in the Village, on-mountain experiences, and evening events designed to keep the energy going from morning through night. Attendees can take part in morning yoga sessions, lap the mountain during the day, and return to a steady lineup of DJs, games, and community activities in the base area.

Saturday’s programming will feature a FREE live performance in the Kirkwood Village from Scott Pemberton O Theory, delivering a high-energy mix of funk, rock, and psychedelic sounds. The set will include a special guest appearance from Cliff Porter of Jelly Bread on drums. Music begins at 10am with an opening set from DJ Ryan Palmer, setting the tone for a full day of activity in the village. Saturday also features the VanWood Mini Tahoe Brewfest, offering unlimited tastings from ten regional breweries, along with a sunset shred session that brings participants back onto the mountain for a late day ride. 

All village activities are free and open to the public, with the exception of the Mini Tahoe Brewfest. Skiing and snowboarding are accessible through Kirkwood lift access.

Camping is a central part of the VanWood experience, with attendees setting up vans, RVs, and tents to create a shared basecamp environment. The layout encourages connection among campers, blending van life culture with a broader community of mountain enthusiasts. All campsite purchasers will be automatically entered for a chance to win a Golden Road Gathering package for their family, including a three day festival pass with walk-in camping. The winner will be announced Sunday morning, April 12.

All proceeds from VanWood Tahoe support programs and services for local youth through the Boys and Girls Club of Lake Tahoe, reinforcing the event’s commitment to community impact.

To reserve your campsite, or more information about VanWood Tahoe, please visit www.vanwoodtahoe.com or contact Mallory Mahon at vanwood@bgclt.org.