Family travelers seeking lesser-known locales with just as much festive charm, spirit and nostalgia should look to Carson Valley, Nevada, this Christmas. From pop-up shops to kid-friendly activities, Carson Valley goes all out this holiday season.
Gardnerville hosts Candy Cane Main all month long, with the annual Shop Main Street Cookie and Cocoa Crawl happening Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. to 2. p.m. All December long, this event includes carriage rides, an interactive map of participating businesses and photos with Santa.
In Genoa, don’t miss the Dec. 7 Breakfast with Santa. The whole family can enjoy pancakes, sausage and a visit from Santa himself.
Dec. 7 is a special day in Carson Valley as Carson Valley’s 28th annual Parade of Lights also takes place this day, beginning at 5 p.m. Kids can experience marching bands, watch floats and soak up festive holiday charm. The Genoa Country Christmas concert runs Dec. 15 at 5:30 p.m., featuring Tom Miller playing holiday requests and fan favorites. Bonus: Dessert is served at intermission!
For a cozy, horse-drawn sleigh ride overlooking Lake Tahoe, take a narrated, guided tour in South Lake Tahoe. Need the kids to get their energy out? Visit the bunny hill or the more epic black diamond trails for snow play at any number of destinations in Carson Valley.
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