North Lake Tahoe communities, historians, residents, resorts and businesses will join together for the the annual Olympic Heritage Celebration, January 11th - 19th, to recognize and highlight Lake Tahoe's place in history as host of the 1960 Olympic Winter Games.

The week of events includes an opening ceremonies, complete with a snow dance, special Olympian meet and greet events, an open house at the recently launched Museum of Sierra Ski History, and more.

Originally held in 2010 to honor the 50th anniversary of the 1960 Games at Palisades Tahoe and on the West Shore, the Olympic Heritage Celebration has become an annual event. This year, as in 2010, it is again an Olympic year, adding emphasis and significance to the planned events.

Saturday, January 11 - Opening Ceremonies
Sugar Pine Point State Park- 11:30am
Featuring lighting of the caldron, Olympian Welcome, and dedication and celebration by members of the Washoe and Paute tribes to help us bring on snow!   After the dancing, join us for a guided walk on the same Nordic trails used in the 1960 Nordic events.  This last portion of the program will begin at 12:30pm and will last approximatly 1 1/2 hours. Wear good boots and be prepared for weather. There will be cookies and hot cocoa. All events are FREE.  $10 per car parking fee.
 
Monday, January 13 - Olympian Meet and Greet
North Lake Tahoe Visitor Center-5 to 7pm
Join us for a Meet and Greet with our celebrated local Oylmpians Daron Rahlves, Adam Hostetter and Joe Pete Wilson. Local  authors Dave Antonucci and Eddy Ancinas will be signing books and sharing Olympic tales. Beer and Wine Provided. Free event.

Thursday, January 16 - Open House
Musuem of Sierra Ski History- 5:30pm to 7:30pm
Located in the Boatworks Mall in Tahoe City.  FREE admission to the museum tonight and an opportunity to meet some of Tahoe's skiing legends.  

Friday, January 17 - Nordic Legends Dinner
Granlibakken Resort, Tahoe City 5:30pm
Join us in the Cedar House Pub for hearty fare, great spirits, and a fun time!  There will be an "Olympian" Dinner Special for $35 (includes a glass of wine) or guests can order from the extensive list of local favorites.  50% of the ticket benefits the Sierra State Parks Foundtaion to support the Olympic Snow Trails at Sugar Pine Point State Park..  1960 Olympic memorbilia will be on display, live music, toasts, and a fabulous raffle. This will be a fun night for a great cause. Reservations suggested at 530.583.4242.

Saturday, January 18: - "Citizens Against the Clock"
Sugar Pine Point State Park- 10:30 to noon
Here is your chance to try out a modified biathlon event! With no snow this year we are changing it up a bit! Wear your winter boots and jog around a short course before you are handed an electronic "riffle". After some instructions, you will be able to test your shooting skills.  You are timed against the clock for a fun time. Can you beat your own time? FREE

Saturday, January 18 - Full Moon Hike
Sugar Pine Point State Park- Begins at 7pm
Join State Park staff for a magical walk along Tahoe's magical west shore using the light of the full moon to guide your way.  $20 includes entry to the park and the special program. Kids under 12 are free. Reservations required by calling West Shore Sports at 530.525-9920.

Sunday, January 19 - Palisades Tahoe Day
A full day of activites and fun is planned at the home of the 1960 Winter Olympics.  The day will include a Mighty Mites Race, Live music on the KT deck, Cusp of Glory movie premier in the Pizza Bar, an Olympic walking tour by noted historian Dave Anntonucci, and more.  

For a full list of the activities, go to www.Squaw.com/OHC