SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The delivery of the annual Christmas tree in the Heavenly Village kicks off the holiday season in South Lake Tahoe. Carefully sourced from a designated fire-prevention area within the Tahoe Basin, this magnificent White Fir will stand as the centerpiece of Heavenly Village’s enchanting holiday festivities.
The tree rivals the size and grandeur of trees used in celebrations across the country, and will be transforming Heavenly Village into a winter wonderland. There will be a community tree lighting ceremony on Friday, November 28, at 6 p.m., which is the kickoff to Heavenly Holidays, featuring an exciting lineup of speakers and a special musical performance by Nashville’s own Mark MacKay, one of the nation’s top 100 artists.
This year also marks a major milestone: the 10th anniversary of sourcing and delivering the Heavenly Village Christmas tree, a tradition that has become a cherished part of the region’s holiday identity.
This community effort is made possible by the tireless dedication of local leader Kenny Curtzwiler of K&K Services and Lake Tahoe Ski Bum. He has worked hand-in-hand with event producer Dreu Murin for the past decade to ensure the perfect tree arrives safely each year. Their commitment guarantees that locals and visitors alike can continue to experience the magic of the holiday season in true Tahoe style.
This year’s operation, conducted early Friday morning, brought together a remarkable team effort. Murin, Curtzwiler and his K & K Services, Flipper / F&B Construction, the California Highway Patrol, Sunwest Building Services, and the City of South Lake Tahoe Police Department coordinated seamlessly to transport this natural wonder from the forests of South Lake Tahoe to its festive home in Heavenly Village.
“With all the leadership issues we have been having locally lately, Kenny has always been a pillar of support for the community and this initiative. We can’t thank him enough for his efforts,” said Gary Casteel Jr., president & CEO of TSI Investments and The Shops at Heavenly Village.
In reflecting on the decade-long tradition, Curtzwiler shared: “It truly takes a village, and it’s an honor to help bring this tree to the community each year. What started as a simple idea has grown into something truly meaningful for families across Tahoe and beyond. Seeing the smiles, the photos, and the memories created around this tree makes every early morning and long haul worth it. I’m proud to play a small part in a tradition that brings so much joy to the community I love.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome this stunning tree back to Heavenly Village,” added Casteel. “This tradition reflects the incredible community spirit of Lake Tahoe, and we look forward to sharing the experience with families worldwide.”
Murin, who is the organizer of Heavenly Village’s holiday events, noted: “This tree is far more than décor; it’s the heart of Lake Tahoe. For 10 years now, we’ve worked to create a magical experience for our community and our visitors. This tree lighting sets the tone for everything that follows. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone involved, from our law enforcement and construction partners to our volunteers and local businesses. It takes an entire community to make this tradition come alive each year, and I could not be more appreciative.”
Throughout December, Heavenly Holidays will bring an unforgettable lineup of entertainment, including live music, Santa appearances, ice sculpting, holiday characters, interactive shows, carriage rides, and the spectacular New Year’s Eve Heavenly Gondola ball drop and fireworks.
For more information on the holiday events, visit:
https://theshopsatheavenly.com.
