SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The beloved tradition of the Heavenly Village Christmas Tree continues with the arrival of the 2024 tree on November 20. This annual event kicks off the holiday season in South Lake Tahoe.
The tree’s arrival marks the start of Heavenly Village’s holiday festivities and has become an anticipated tradition. Thanks to the commitment of dedicated volunteer Ken Curtzweiler and Heavenly Village organizer Dreu Murin, the majestic red fir tree will take its place at the village center, right off Lake Tahoe Blvd.
Each year, the tree is sourced as part of a fire prevention and water retention initiative in the Tahoe basin, adding an environmental purpose to this holiday symbol.
Once set up, the tree will be adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and ornaments in time for the official lighting ceremony scheduled for Friday, November 29. The ceremony will feature live music by Kristen Brown from NBC’s The Voice and a special visit from Santa Claus, delighting children and families. Visitors and locals can enjoy the beauty of the tree throughout the holiday season while exploring the village’s shops, restaurants, and seasonal festivities.
“We’re thrilled to continue this cherished tradition at Heavenly Village,” said Gary Casteel Jr., president and CEO of TSI Investments / Shops at Heavenly Village. “The Christmas tree brings our community together and invites people to make memories with their families and loved ones. As Lake Tahoe’s #1 destination, Heavenly Village embodies the spirit of unity and giving that makes this season so special.”
“With record-breaking attendance each year at Heavenly Village, we go big and this holiday season will be no exception,” said Murin. “We’re setting the bar high and aiming to create a holiday experience that rivals even the Rockefeller Tree in New York City. I can’t thank the Casteel Family and Kenny Curtzweiler enough for their support of this tradition.”
The tree’s arrival also signals the beginning of Heavenly Village’s extensive holiday program, Heavenly Holidays, which includes Breakfast with Santa, ice sculptures, live music, and special holiday events for all ages. Thanks to partnerships with Visit Lake Tahoe, Heavenly Mountain Resort, and The Shops at Heavenly Village, these festivities create a magical holiday atmosphere. For New Year’s Eve, Murin announced Apollo winner and America’s Got Talent Season 19 finalist Dee Dee Simon as the headlining performer, promising an unforgettable celebration with a spectacular fireworks show.