Entertainment this week: Surf Across Tahoe, Gamblers Run and more

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Friday, July 17

Classical Tahoe – 7-9 p.m., Ricardi Pavilion at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe, 291 Country Club . Classical Tahoe Music Festival returns for its 15th season July 11–Aug. 9, bringing four weeks of orchestral, jazz and chamber music performances to North Lake Tahoe. Featuring more than 70 musicians from across the country, the 2026 season includes orchestral masterpieces like Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 and Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1, the return of Music in Motion with the Lake Tahoe Dance Collective, the Brubeck Jazz Summit celebrating jazz legend Dave Brubeck, family-friendly programming and a new chamber concert at Sugar Bowl Resort. Performances take place at the Ricardi Pavilion at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe and additional venues throughout Incline Village. The season also honors America 250 with concerts featuring American composers and themes. Tickets and full festival information are available at classicaltahoe.org. Additional dates: 7/17, 7/19. For more information, visit https://classicaltahoe.org/ or call 775.372.7904 .

Dulce Gula Ice Cream & Treat at Music on the Beach – 3-9 p.m., Dulce Gula will be serving their amazing ice cream, signature milkshakes, and treats at Music on the Beach. They will not be present at Tahoe Backyard after 3pm. For more information, visit https://tahoebackyard.com/event-calendar.

The Future of Jazz – 7-9 p.m., Artists 2026 Summit participants with special guests to be announced About This Concert The finale of our three-concert jazz series turns the spotlight toward the next generation. Showcasing today’s rising stars in jazz, the 2026 Brubeck Jazz Summit participants take the stage alongside the Brubeck Summit Sextet and the Brubeck Brothers in a concert that highlights emerging artists, fresh perspectives, and the continued evolution of the music. Ranging in age from 15 to 18, these exceptional musicians come to Tahoe from around the world. Together, they offer a glimpse into the exciting future of jazz in this final performance of the 2026 Brubeck Jazz Summit. The future of Jazz starts here! For more information, visit https://business.ivcba.org/event-calendar/Details/the-future-of-jazz-1663791?sourceTypeId=Hub.



Macbeth – 7:30 p.m., Sand Harbor State Park, 2005 Highway 28. Additional dates: 7/17, 7/21, 7/23. For more information, visit https://laketahoeshakespeare.com/event/macbeth-7/ or call (800) 747-4697.

Pete Floyd – 8 p.m., 14 NV-28. Pete Floyd Fri. July 17th 2026 I $20 ADV / $25 DOS I Doors: 7pm Show: 8pm I Ticket Link: https://tixr.com/e/186494 WHICH ONE’S PETE? Experience the enchanting world of Pete Floyd, an extraordinary Sonoma/Marin-based Pink Floyd tribute band, led by the dynamic duo of skilled Petes – Pete Delaney and Pete Hale. This musical powerhouse, comprising eight exceptionally talented musicians, captivates audiences with authentic renditions, bringing Pink Floyd’s legacy to life. From the captivating vocals of Teal Collins and Paige Clem to Bob McBain’s mesmerizing keys and Toby Tyler’s grooving bass, along with drummer star Sean England and the dynamic saxophonist Alex Garcia, Pete Floyd authentically bring Pink Floyd’s legacy to life, transporting audiences on a dream-like journey through the timeless sounds of psychedelia and concept albums. Join them on this mesmerizing tribute, and experience the magic and passion as they honor the essence of Pink Floyd’s music. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/2168486700653083/.



Scale Challenge West 2026 – 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Kingvale Resort / Tubing and Sledding, 53102 Donner Pass Road. Get ready for an unforgettable RC off-road experience at Scale Challenge West 2026 This one-of-a-kind RC event brings together the rugged! Additional dates: 7/17, 7/18, 7/19. For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/scale-challenge-west-2026-tickets-1987199123071.

Songs, Stories & Strings with Michael Kirkpatrick – 7:30-10 p.m., Mountain Lotus Yoga Truckee, 10124 E Street. An intimate evening of songs, stories, and strings with Michael Kirkpatrick, featuring originals and Dead favorites at Mountain Lotus Trucke For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/songs-stories-strings-with-michael-kirkpatrick-tickets-1991940861739.

Saturday, July 18

Folk Songs & Hymns Tour – 7 p.m.-12 a.m., Cornerstone Community Church, 300 Country Club Dr. A veteran songwriter and musician, Matt Papa has carved an even more unique space for himself as one of the world’s top modern-day hymn writers. With songs like, “His Mercy Is More”, “Christ Our Hope In Life And Death” and “Come Behold The Wondrous Mystery”, Matt tours regularly across the U.S. as a songwriter with Getty Music and frequently guests on their tours. A three-time Dove Award nominated artist, Matt is on a mission to write songs that are singable, beautiful, and timeless. He currently serves as an artist-in-residence at Marco Presbyterian Church in Marco Island, FL, and most of all, is a husband, and a father to 5 beautiful children. http://www.mattpapa.com For more information, visit https://www.bandsintown.com/e/107965662?app_id=pkvts0on0m&came_from=287&utm_medium=api&utm_source=partner_api&utm_campaign=event.

The Heart of Robin Hood – 7:30 p.m., Sand Harbor State Park, 2005 Highway 28. Additional dates: 7/18, 7/19, 7/22. For more information, visit https://laketahoeshakespeare.com/event/the-heart-of-robin-hood-5/ or call (800) 747-4697.

Music by the Meadow – 5-7 p.m., Pizza On The Hill Music, 11463 Northwoods Blvd. Grab a blanket and head over to the lawn at Northwoods Clubhouse on Saturday evenings from 5-7PM to enjoy FREE live music performances amidst the pines and meadow views. Kick your shoes off and dance along with your favorite local musicians and bands! Indoor and outdoor dining available at Pizza on the Hill, and a playground is nearby for the kiddos. July 11: Dad’s Lame Playlist July 18: Funky Frontier July 25: Love’s Secret Domain Aug. 1: Moody Cat Aug. 8: Wild Ginger Aug. 15: Public Eye Aug. 22: Rogue Aug. 29: The Get Rich Quick Sept. 5: Sonik Rewind For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1025213010082414/1025213030082412/?active_tab=about.

Sierra Speaker Series – 5-6:30 p.m., Donner Memorial State Park, 12593 Donner Pass Rd. In partnership with California State Parks and the Nevada County Library, the monthly Sierra Speaker Series connects folks to the rich cultural and natural history of the area. Join us at Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center to learn and engage! Doors open at 5 with presentation to follow at 5:30 pm. Parking is free after 5 pm. Admission is a suggested $5 donation. Light refreshments and wines, sponsored by Highway 12 Winery, will be available. No registration required. In 1841, the Bidwell-Bartleson Party became the first organized group of American settlers to attempt a wagon crossing into California, despite having no prior experience or reliable maps. Faced with the harsh reality of the Great Basin and the Sierra Nevada, the group was forced to abandon their wagons and survive on the meat of their pack animals. Though the party splintered under the immense physical and mental strain, most members eventually reached John Sutter’s ranch in the Sacramento Valley. Their arrival proved that a land route to the Pacific was possible, effectively setting the stage for the massive waves of migration that defined the mid-19th century. Noel Lopez is a California local who has been planting seeds of stewardship with California State Parks for over a decade. Originally a Park Interpretive Specialist at Bidwell Mansion SHP, he now serves as the K-12 Interpreter 1 for the Northern Buttes District and teaches part-time at Butte Community College. For more information, visit https://sierrastateparks.org/events/bidwell-bartleson.

Tahoe 100 Mountain Bike Race – 7 a.m., The Tahoe 100 is a mountain bike race featuring a 50-kilometer course. Race categories include the premier 100K, a two-lap race, and the 50K, a one-lap race. The event showcases the breathtaking trails and views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the North Lake Tahoe and Truckee areas. https://bigblueadventure.com/tahoe-100 For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/925438360542861/.

Tea Leaf Green & Hot Buttered Rum – 8 p.m.-12 a.m., Crystal Bay Casino, 14 Highway 28. Hot Buttered Rum & Tea Leaf Green For more information, visit https://www.bandsintown.com/e/1038086596?app_id=pkvts0on0m&came_from=287&utm_medium=api&utm_source=partner_api&utm_campaign=event or call (775) 833-6333.

Wild Edible & Medicinal Plants of Blackwood Canyon – 12-3 p.m., Blackwood Canyon SNO-PARK. Blackwood Canyon on Tahoe’s West Shore is home to a diversity of medicinal plants, as well as expansive meadows and striking mountain views. For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/wild-edible-medicinal-plants-of-blackwood-canyon-tickets-1984343327309.

Sunday, July 19

Concerts at Commons Free Summer Concerts 2026 – 4-7 p.m., Commons Beach, 400 N Lake Blvd. Concerts at Commons returns to Commons Beach in Tahoe City for another summer of free live music on the shores of Lake Tahoe! Join us Sunday evenings from June 14-Sept. 6 (NO SHOW JULY 5) for live bands, dancing, community fun, food, shopping and unforgettable Tahoe sunsets. New for 2026, FREE shuttle service will be available to every concert from Olympic Valley and the West Shore through partnerships with Palisades Tahoe and TNT-TMA. Free bike valet will also return this summer courtesy of Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition. 2026 Concerts at Commons Lineup: July 19 – Big Blue Guitarmageddon July 26 – Poor Man’s Whiskey Aug. 2 – Broken Compass Aug. 9 – New Monsoon Aug. 16 – Boot Juice Aug. 23 – Scott Pemberton O’Theory Aug. 30 – Allmond Bros Band Sept. 6 – Blues Monsters and Friends Learn more at ConcertsAtCommonsBeach.com For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/2124077915100148/2124082941766312/?active_tab=about.

Painting + Plein Aire in the Garden – 9-11 a.m., North Tahoe Recreation & Parks. Join instructor Nicole Stirling for a creative plein air painting experience in the Community Garden at the North Tahoe Regional Park. Surrounded by nature, you’ll learn foundational painting techniques while creating your own unique masterpiece in an inspiring outdoor setting. This relaxed, hands-on workshop is perfect for all skill levels—whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or looking to refine your artistic practice. All supplies are provided. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: $40/Members, $55/Residents, $65/Non-Residents For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1267284662052435/.

Monday, July 20

Beach Cleanup – 8:30-10 a.m., North Tahoe Event Center, 8318 North Lake Blvd.. Join the North Tahoe Public Utility District at the North Tahoe Event Center every Monday from June 1 through August 27 to help keep our beaches and community clean. Meet on the Lakefront Patio at the North Tahoe Event Center at 8:30 a.m. to fuel up on fresh-brewed coffee and doughnuts before we head out to pick up trash. It is a rewarding way to kick off your week while giving back to the lake we love. Event Details When: Mondays, June 1 – August 31 Time: 8:30-10am Location: North Tahoe Event Center, Lakefront Patio For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/749766891496884/749766921496881/?active_tab=about.

THE DOO WOP PROJECT – 7:30 p.m., Sand Harbor State Park, 2005 Highway 28. For more information, visit https://laketahoeshakespeare.com/event/the-doo-wop-project/ or call (800) 747-4697.

Tuesday, July 21

Bluesdays – 6 p.m.-12 a.m., Palisades Tahoe, 1960 Squaw Valley Rd. Blues vocalist, harmonica master and songwriting legend Rick Estrin, leader of the musically fearless, wildly entertaining, award-winning band Rick Estrin & The Nightcats, doesn’t like to talk much about his own musical superpowers. But ask him about the Nightcats—multi-instrumentalist/musical mastermind/producer Christoffer “Kid” Andersen, keyboardist/organ wizard/bass player Lorenzo Farrell and endlessly creative drummer Derrick “D’Mar” Martin—and he’ll be happy to sing their praises. “This band is killer. I’m enjoying this all more than ever,” says the man who’s been performing and recording professionally since the early 1970s. “It’s a blessing—there’s so much energy, so much collaboration. The band is just so good right now. And the live show is better than ever.” Living Blues calls Rick Estrin & The Nightcats “a terrific blues band with a real character for a front man,” continuing, “Clever, well-crafted songs framed by first-flight musicianship…hugely entertaining, intelligently conceived and executed roots rock with a wickedly cool and otherworldly twist on tradition. Estrin’s harp work is masterful.” For more information, visit https://www.bandsintown.com/e/108153348?app_id=pkvts0on0m&came_from=287&utm_medium=api&utm_source=partner_api&utm_campaign=event or call (800) 403-0206.

Constitutional Scholars Speaker Series at Lake Tahoe – 6-7:30 p.m., Description National Perspectives on the most important constitutional questions of our time – UNR at Lake Tahoe For more information, visit https://business.ivcba.org/event-calendar/Details/constitutional-scholars-speaker-series-at-lake-tahoe-1840144?sourceTypeId=Hub.

Grooves by the Greens – 6-8 p.m., The Lodge Restaurant at Tahoe Donner Music, 12850 Northwoods Blvd. Summer nights at the Pavilion just got better with FREE live outdoor music performances on Tuesday evenings from 6-8PM July 7 through August 25. Sit back, relax and groove along with your favorite local musicians and bands amidst the fresh air and fairway views. Indoor and outdoor dining is available at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. July 7: Mike Sinclair July 14: Michael Buster July 21: Robbie Gade July 28: Lisa + the Lawless Aug. 4: Lady and the Tramps Aug. 11: Steel Sparrows Aug. 18: Is and Was Aug. 25: Jon Hennion Duo For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/3532132433622921/3532132443622920/?active_tab=about.

Lake Tahoe Dance Collective Festival – July 21, 2026 Tahoe City, CA Lake Tahoe Dance Collective Festival Lake Tahoe Dance Collective is delighted to present the 14th Annual Lake Tahoe Dance Festival featuring artists from New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, Broadway, Boston Ballet, Houston Ballet, and more. An opening night gala in Incline Village marks the beginning of the Festival, followed by Kings Beach Community Night, Tahoe City Community Night, and a closing night gala in William B. Layton Park. Learn More Additional dates: 7/21, 7/22, 7/23. For more information, visit https://www.visitplacer.com/event/lake-tahoe-dance-collective-festival/.

Truckee Chamber – Good Morning Truckee: Special Districts Updates – 8-9:30 a.m., Truckee Town Hall, 10183 Airport Rd. Join us for our July Good Morning Truckee as leaders from several of our region’s special districts come together to provide timely updates on the services, projects, and initiatives that keep our community running. From recreation and parks to aviation, utilities, and sanitation, these organizations play a vital role in the quality of life and future of the Truckee region. Whether you’re a business owner, resident, or simply interested in what’s happening in our community, this is an excellent opportunity to hear from the leaders shaping Truckee’s future and ask questions about the services we rely on every day. For more information, visit https://business.truckee.com/events/details/good-morning-truckee-special-districts-updates-82458 or call 530-412-7074.

Wednesday, July 22

Alpen Glow Kayak Tour – 6:30-8:30 p.m., Sugar Pine Point State Park. Experience the alpen glow magic, where the summits of mountains appear to glow with a reddish or pinkish hue. Did you know this glow is caused by the way the sun’s light interacts with the atmosphere and the surface of the mountains? And we’re in the best possible place, right on the water surrounded by mountains, to experience that phenomenon! The Sierra State Parks Foundation is partnering with California State Parks to offer a unique after-hours kayak tour along the shore of Sugar Pine Point State Park in Lake Tahoe. The tour will take place between the highest-elevation operational lighthouse in the U.S. and the park’s southern boundary, overlooking Meeks Bay. State Park staff will provide insight into the region’s cultural and natural history under the radiance of alpenglow. Your ticket helps support educational programs in our parks! The cost of the tour is $55, which includes parking, the kayak rental, mandatory life jackets, and safety training. No experience is necessary. Attendees should arrive at 6:30 p.m. at the restrooms on the Day Use parking lot (lakeside, not campground side of the park), and from there, we will walk together to the boat house to pick up rentals. The tour begins at 7:00 p.m. and lasts an hour and a half, plus. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Space is very limited, so book now! Can’t attend this one? We have another kayak tour July 15th and August 19th . Thank you to our kayak sponsor, West Shore Sports , for making this magic happen! For more information, visit https://sierrastateparks.org/events/kayak-july-22-2026.

Blow Your Mind Botany – 5-6:30 p.m., Tahoe National Forest Truckee Ranger District , 10811 Stockrest Springs Road. What if plants are far more remarkable than we ever imagined? Join the Tahoe & Sierra Valley Chapter of the California Native Plant Society for Blow Your Mind Botany, an eye-opening presentation by botanist and ecologist Joe Medeiros. Drawing on the latest scientific research, Joe explores fascinating questions about the plant kingdom—from how plants communicate and adapt to whether they can anticipate the future and plan ahead. Can they even solve our climate challenges? A Professor Emeritus of Botany and Ecology at Sierra College, Joe has spent more than six decades exploring the Sierra Nevada and 35 years teaching about its remarkable ecosystems. His passion for plants, ecology, and the natural world makes this an engaging evening for gardeners, hikers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the science behind the landscapes we love. For more information, visit http://cnps.org/events.

Surf Across Tahoe 2026 – 8:15 a.m.-3 p.m., Homewood High & Dry Marina, 5190 West Lake Boulevard. One of a kind wakesurf event sponsored by Superior Boat Repair & Sales. For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/surf-across-tahoe-2026-tickets-1990118162998.

Weekly Movie Night at Tahoe National – 8-10:07 p.m., 850 CA-28. Join us every Wednesday for a cozy movie night in the brewery (projector room)! Bring your blankets, pillows, and low chairs—get comfy and settle in. We’ll be alternating family-friendly nights and adult movie nights all summer long. Movie Lineup: (Please note: Movie titles are subject to change. Be sure to check our website for the most up-to-date lineup and schedule before attending.) • July 22 – Pulp Fiction • July 29 – The Sword & the Stone • August 5 – The Wolf of Wall Street • August 12 – Cheaper by the Dozen (2022) • August 19 – Pirates of the Caribbean • August 26 – Jawbreaker • September 2 – The Emperor’s New Groove • September 9 – Paranormal Activity Please Note: • On adult movie nights, no one under 18 is permitted after 8 PM. • If you’re planning to dine with us, please keep in mind the movie begins promptly at 8 PM each Wednesday. • Seating is first come, first served—come early and get cozy For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1326823816042070/1326823849375400/?active_tab=about.

Thursday, July 23

Edi-Bōl Dinner Series – 5-8 p.m., Alder Creek Adventure Center. Everyone’s favorite dinner series—with a twist! – is back on Thursday nights from 5PM to 7PM at Alder Creek Cafe. Get excited for all-new Edi-Bōl creations, featuring international flavors, healthy, fresh ingredients and vegan/vegetarian options. Plus, enjoy additional family-friendly options from the regular menu and happy hour pricing on beer and wine from the Trailside Bar, too! To learn more about each bowl, visit: https://www.tahoedonner.com/events/edi-bol-dinner-series For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1425978675975042/1425978689308374/?active_tab=about.

Gambler’s Run Music Festival: Thursday (21+ Event) – 5 p.m., The Crown Room, 14 State Route 28.

Ice Cream at the Park – 3-5 p.m., North Tahoe Recreation & Parks. NTPUD staff and volunteers are scooping it up at the playground in the North Tahoe Regional Park every Thursday in July! All are welcome to enjoy some free ice cream. Thursdays in July, 3-5pm while supplies last For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/4436036306725217/4436036323391882/?active_tab=about.

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