Alpenglow Winter Speaker Series: Chris Benchetler

The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley Road, Olympic Valley, CA, USA, California, United States
Ticket price
Free
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The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley Road, Olympic Valley, CA, USA
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Adventure storytelling lights up a Tahoe winter night

A free community talk featuring pro adventurers and big-mountain stories at Palisades Tahoe’s Olympic Village Events Center. Doors around 6 PM; showtime follows.

Start date
2 January, 2026 6:00 PM
End date
2 January, 2026 8:00 PM

Event details

On January 2, 2026, the Olympic Village Events Center at Palisades Tahoe hosts Chris Benchetler, one of freeskiing’s most creative souls, for an evening of adventure storytelling that blends jaw-dropping powder descents with the art of living in the mountains. Doors open around 6 PM, with showtime following shortly after—this free community event draws locals, visitors, and anyone who needs a midwinter dose of inspiration after a day on the slopes. Benchetler, known for his fluid style and artist’s eye, has spent decades chasing snow from Alaska to Japan, and his talks weave together film clips, photography, and the kind of honest reflection that makes you want to wake up early for first tracks.

Who Should Go

Families, couples, solo travelers, and anyone who loves skiing, snowboarding, or mountain culture will find something here. The tone is welcoming and unpretentious—kids old enough to sit through a 90-minute presentation will enjoy the visuals, while adults appreciate the depth of storytelling. Expect a full house of Tahoe regulars, visiting skiers, and folks who simply want to spend an evening indoors without losing the mountain vibe.

Quick Tips
• Arrive 20-30 minutes early for good seats—seating is first-come, first-served
• Free admission, but donations support local nonprofits and community programs
• Parking at Palisades Tahoe fills quickly; carpool if possible or plan for shuttle options
• Typical January evening temps hover in the low 20s°F; bring a warm jacket for the walk from your car
• If the event is full, organizers occasionally stream talks online or host overflow viewing

After the talk, take a short drive down to Tahoe City or Kings Beach for a moonlit walk along the shoreline. On clear nights, the lake reflects the stars in a way that feels like an extension of the storytelling you just heard. If you’re staying the weekend, book a cabin or condo near the North Shore on Lake.com—you’ll have easy access to both Palisades Tahoe and the water, where morning paddleboarding or a quiet dock moment can balance out your time in the mountains.

Event Type and Audience

Educational Program All Ages
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