SnowFest brings winter party to North Lake Tahoe

Every year since 1982, North Lake Tahoe has celebrated the coming of spring ski season with a 10-day festival of daytime and nighttime snow activities, games and events. Beginning Thursday, March 3, and ending March 13, the festival will be held throughout North Lake Tahoe at resorts including Squaw Valley, Homewood and Northstar-at-Tahoe.

Snow-centric events include “wacky human bowling,” snow sculpting, a snow queen competition, parades and races. Attendees also can expect concerts, theater and special dining opportunities throughout the festival’s duration.

Events vary in price. Opening ceremonies will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday evening at Gar Woods Grill & Pier in Carnelian Bay.

For more information, visit tahoesnowfestival.com.

Scrapbook Expo

What: The Alameda County Fairgrounds will host a two-day Stamp & Scrapbook Expo, designed for scrapbooking enthusiasts and crafters alike. The event will host vendors showcasing the latest scrapbooking tools and technology, as well as feature project ideas and workshops.

When: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, March 4; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 5

Where: 4501 Pleasanton Ave.

Cost: $8 to $10 general admission

Information: scrapbookexpo.com

International Orchid Show

What: Enjoy thousands of unique, blooming orchids at Santa Barbara’s 71st annual International Orchid Show hosted for three days at the Earl Warren Showgrounds. More than 50 orchid vendors and exhibitors will be on-site, offering a selection of art demonstrations, floral arrangements and presentations.

When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, March 4-6

Where: 3400 Calle Real

Cost: $14 general admission

Information: sborchidshow.com/

Banff Mountain Film Festival

What: The Banff Mountain Film Festival, an outdoor and adventure-themed film festival, will make its stop in Monterey this Friday. Sponsored by REI, the event will feature a variety of captivating films about extreme outdoor sports, such as skiing and paragliding, in some exotic locations.

When: 7 p.m. Friday, March 4

Where: Golden State Theatre, 417 Alvarado St.

Cost: $20

Information: banffcentre.ca/banff-mountain-film-festival-world-tour

Wildflower Festival

What: Enjoy wildflower viewing, mountain biking, hiking and more in Southern California’s Santa Rosa and San Jacinto mountains. The event, hosted by Friends of the Desert Mountains, also will feature a 5-kilometer run, live music, vendors and unique art exhibits.

When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 5

Where: Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center, Highway 74, Palm Desert

Cost: Free

Information: www.desertmountains.org

Chocolate Salon

What: For chocolate fanatics and foodies alike, Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture will host the 10th annual Chocolate Salon, featuring renowned chocolatiers and culinary artists. The event also will feature demonstrations, tastings, product launches, wine pairings and presentations from top chocolatiers and authors.

When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 5

Where: Herbst Pavillion, Pier 2

Cost: $10 to $30

Information: sfchocolatesalon.com

This story was originally published February 26, 2016 at 4:01 PM with the headline "SnowFest brings winter party to North Lake Tahoe."