Sierra REC Magazine
WinterWonderGrass Tahoe to Take a Year Off in 2025
WinterWonderGrass, a beloved tradition in North Lake Tahoe, has announced that it will not return in 2025. After nearly a decade of unforgettable experiences in Olympic Valley at Palisades Tahoe, the festival is taking a year off for “review and reorganization” with the goal of returning in 2026. The news has been met with a mix of sadness and understanding from the community that has supported this festival since its inception in 2015.
A Difficult Decision Amid Rising Costs
In a heartfelt statement, festival producer Scotty Stoughton of Bonfire Entertainment expressed the deep connections and memories that have been forged over the years. However, he cited the rising costs of doing business in Northern California—particularly lodging and operational expenses—as the primary reason for the hiatus. Stoughton emphasized that the team was unwilling to pass these costs onto attendees by significantly raising ticket prices, which would go against the festival’s ethos of accessibility and community.
“Over the past eight years in North Lake Tahoe, we have enjoyed moments of elation and heartfelt joy,” Stoughton shared. “However, we are confident it is important to take a pause and explore ways to return stronger.”
Cherished Memories and Future Plans
WinterWonderGrass Tahoe has always been more than just a festival; it has been a gathering of like-minded souls who appreciate both the beauty of the Sierra Nevada and the power of live music. From its early days with only one run open on the mountain to years marked by extreme weather challenges, the festival has persevered, creating lasting memories for all involved.
Reflecting on these moments, Stoughton recalled, “Tahoe memories run deep, from year one with only one run open on the mountain, to a few years later with so much rain the resort had to close while we covered our audience in yellow slickers. From the deep, deep snow to the warm sunshine, and the hilarious pop-up on mountain shows that only Palisades Tahoe could deliver, it was clear we belonged here.”
While Tahoe will miss WinterWonderGrass in 2025, the festival is far from over. The 12th annual WinterWonderGrass in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, will take place as planned from February 28 to March 2, 2025, offering fans an opportunity to keep the spirit of the festival alive. Additionally, Stoughton hinted at a silver lining for Tahoe, with plans for a weekend of free shows in April 2025, bringing a bit of bluegrass to the mountains and reuniting the community for a dance.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As WinterWonderGrass takes this necessary pause, the team does so with deep respect and appreciation for the Tahoe community. The hope is to return stronger in 2026, continuing the tradition of blending music, mountains, and memories in a way that only WinterWonderGrass can.
For now, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for details about the free shows in April and to consider joining the WinterWonderGrass family in Colorado next February. As Stoughton said, “It is with an abundance of respect and appreciation that I write these words. Please reach out anytime – we hope to see you very soon.”
Photos courtesy of Winter Wondergrass media
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Charlie Pankey