The grand finale of North Lake Tahoe SNOWFEST! The River Ranch Snow Sculpture Contest is where creativity, community, and celebration come together to wrap up the festival in true Tahoe style.
10 Teams and individuals transform massive mounds of snow into incredible works of art — sculpting, carving, and coloring their creations in hopes of earning cash prizes.
This event is free to attend and a favorite family and après ski gathering on the Truckee river.
Advanced entry required to participate in the snow sculpture competition. $50 per team. 100% of entry fee goes directly into the prize pot. River Ranch will match the prize pot up to $500. Thank you to River Ranch Lodge and Restaurant for hosting this classic SNOWFEST event!
As the sculptures take shape, enjoy live music, great food and drinks from River Ranch, and plenty of winter cheer. Spectators can vote for their favorites and cheer on the artists as they compete for top honors.
This closing ceremony also includes the presentation of the SNOWFEST Scholarship Awards, celebrating local high school seniors who embody Tahoe’s spirit of leadership, service, and community involvement. Purchase raffle tickets to support scholarship candidates.
Don’t miss the raffle prizes, the laughter, and the big finale of another fantastic SNOWFEST season — a perfect mix of fun, philanthropy, and mountain-town pride.

