December 16, 2020
Truckee’s history of winter fun goes back to the early 1900s. From an ice palace, to a winter carnival, to dog sled races, winter has always been a time to embrace the season full of excitement and wonder and this year is no different. From twinkling lights, innovative al fresco dining, selfie stations and gaiter giveaways, Truckee is creating unique ways to make your time in Truckee fun and memorable.
Despite COVID-19 restrictions and added protocols, Truckee prepared for the winter months with public health at the forefront. “The business model for outdoor dining developed this summer is being adapted to be sustainable during the wintertime,” said Cassie Hebel, Executive Director of the Truckee Downtown Merchants Association. “Each restaurant has developed their own, individual plan that will work for their establishment.”
Truckee Winter Wonderland was made possible through a Nevada County Economic & Community Resilience Coronavirus Relief Fund grant. Additional funds from the Town of Truckee enabled the expansion of the outdoor dining program throughout all of Truckee. “We wanted to be inclusive so the Town Council felt it was extremely important to supplement the Nevada County grant with funds to ensure this was a town wide effort,” said Mayor Dave Polivy.
Twinkling Lights. Every year, holiday lights turn Truckee into a magical, picturesque mountain town. This year Truckee created a Winter Wonderland experience with even more lights to dazzle your eyes and delight your spirit throughout the winter.
Innovative Al Fresco Dining. Restaurants have gone into overdrive building comfortable outdoor dining spaces, complete with heaters, blankets, and hip, swanky stages providing a fun, festive atmosphere.
Selfie Station. Truckee’s Cultural District is on display with a selfie station complete with unique, original backdrops created by local artists. Surrounded by metal pillars of twinkling lights and heat lamps, these selfie frames display the abundant talents of Truckee creatives and make the perfect photo op to remember this winter in Truckee. Whether you choose to take your selfie at the selfie station located at Victory Plaza at the west end of historic Commercial Row in Downtown Truckee at the corner of Donner Pass Road and Spring Street, or in front of the magnificent Christmas tree in the center of town be sure to tag your photo #TruckeeWinterWonderland to share how you enjoyed your time in Truckee.
Gaiter Giveaway. Mask up with our free Gaiter Giveaway: They’re IN! Pick Up at the Train Station. As a memento of this unique winter and Truckee Winter Wonderland, head to the Welcome Center in the train depot in the center of historic downtown Truckee where the Truckee Chamber of Commerce is giving away free neck gaiters. “You need to wear a mask anyway, so why not wear one and get a souvenir as well,” said Lynn Saunders, President & CEO of the Truckee Chamber of Commerce. The Gaiter Giveaway will continue until supplies last. Get yours early as they’re first come first served and when they’re gone, they’re gone!
Shop Local 365. The Truckee Winter Wonderland partners encourage everyone to Shop Local 365 days of the year. Never has supporting local business been more important than during these challenging times. These business owners make up our community; they are always there to provide a friendly, local face; they support local events, sports teams and non-profits; and buying local keeps the money in our community where giving back is just a way of life. As you visit local businesses, take a photo and tag it with #ShopLocal365Truckee to show your support.
Truckee Winter Wonderland is a collaborative partnership of the Town of Truckee, Nevada County, Truckee Downtown Merchants Association, Truckee Chamber of Commerce and Sierra Business Council.
