Tahoe Games Mountain Sports Festival Brings Snow in September & X Games Energy to South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is about to get its newest signature fall tradition — and it’s like nothing the Sierra has ever seen. The Tahoe Games Mountain Sports Festival is coming September 27–28, 2025 to the Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harveys (Caesars Republic), transforming the iconic amphitheater into a multi-sport playground filled with action sports, live music, mountain culture, and interactive outdoor experiences.

And here’s the best part — it’s free to attend, all-ages, and all outdoors.

Watch the full podcast interview with Leslie Schultz on YouTube:
Listen on Spotify: Tahoe Games Podcast Episode

What to Expect at Tahoe Games 2025

This isn’t just a music festival or just an action sports showcase — it’s a full-blown mountain experience. Here’s what’s on tap:

  • Pro Big Air Mountain Bike Competition – Athletes launch off a custom-built jump that runs right through the center of the amphitheater.
  • Real Snow Rail Jam – Hosted by Sierra-at-Tahoe, complete with top local snowboarders and skiers.
  • Snow Sledding in September – On Sunday, the rail jam setup flips into a sledding hill open to all ages.
  • Morning Yoga – Free or donation-based, led by Jess Broyles of Omni, with live beats from Host Beats.
  • Live Music All Weekend – Headliners include The Expendables (reggae-rock favorites from Santa Cruz) and Jacob’s Castle (Jacob Knoll of Sublime), plus 880 South, The Happys, and Crowd Surf League.
  • The Smaine Fund Fun Zone – Mini bike races, penny board slalom, slow bike races, raffles, and more — all raising funds for young athletes in memory of Kyle Smaine.
  • Vendor Village – Curated selection of outdoor brands, gear demos, and local artisans. Expect interactive booths like disc golf challenges, not just product displays.
  • Live Art – Artists creating on-site to add a creative vibe to the festival.
  • Food Trucks & Craft Beer – About a dozen food vendors plus local brews from Lake Tahoe Ale Works.

Festival Details and Logistics

  • Dates: September 27–28, 2025
  • Venue: Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harveys (Caesars Republic)
  • Cost: Free entry, all ages welcome
  • Hours: Yoga at 10 AM, main events 11 AM–6:30 PM daily
  • Lodging: Discounted rooms at Harrah’s Lake Tahoe — Book here
  • Getting There: Limited parking; free bike valet available
  • Pre-Registration (Opens Sept 1): Kids’ Bike Jump Jam, yoga, and athlete participation — Register at tahoegames.com
  • What to Bring: Layers for changing fall weather, clear bag for entry, blanket or light jacket for evening sets. Bikes only if you’re pre-registered to compete.

Why Tahoe Games Is Special

For On Course Events, this festival has been decades in the making. “We’re turning an amphitheater into a multi-sport playground,” says event director Leslie Schultz. “Tahoe Games is about celebrating everything that makes Tahoe wild, fun, and community-driven.”

The collaboration behind this launch is also uniquely Tahoe — with Visit Lake Tahoe, Sierra-at-Tahoe, and a network of local partners and sponsors working together to make the event free and accessible.

Plan Your Festival Weekend

Primary Event Link: linktr.ee/TahoeGames
Event Website: tahoegames.com
Instagram: @TahoeGames
Vendor Application: Apply here
Vendor & Sponsor Info: Download packet

Final Word from Sierra Rec

September in Tahoe means cooler days, lighter crowds, and an endless lineup of festivals. The Tahoe Games Mountain Sports Festival is about to take that to the next level with something for everyone — whether you’re there for the thrills, the music, or just to play in the snow when no one else in California can.

Mark your calendar, rally your crew, and get ready to experience Tahoe like never before.