Mammoth Reggae Fest: Music, Mountains, Magic
Outdoor theater performances on Sand Harbor Beach with family seating and lake views.
Event details
The Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival, a beloved event often simply called the Shakespeare Festival by locals and repeat attendees, is a summer spectacle that embodies the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural enrichment, and communal joy. This annual celebration is designed for a diverse audience, including families, theater enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone who appreciates the allure of Lake Tahoe’s stunning landscape.
The festival takes place from July 5 to August 24, 2025, at the picturesque Sand Harbor within Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park in Incline Village, Nevada. Each evening, from Tuesday through Sunday, the mainstage productions begin at 7:30 PM, featuring Shakespeare’s delightful romantic comedy *Twelfth Night*, directed by Sara Bruner, and the playful Peter Pan prequel *Peter and the Starcatcher*, directed by Jaclyn Miller.
Located at Sand Harbor, this venue is a gem of the Sierra Nevada, offering an breathtaking backdrop of crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains. To get there, attendees can fly into the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and then take a scenic drive via Highway 28. Local transportation and rideshare services are also available, although it is important to note that a Nevada State Parks Entrance Pass is required for access, which costs $10 per vehicle per day for in-state license plates and $15 for out-of-state license plates.
This event is a must-attend for several reasons. Imagine sinking your toes in the sand while sipping a glass of wine and enjoying world-class theater under the stars. The festival’s setting at Sand Harbor is nothing short of enchanting, with Lake Tahoe’s sunset hues painting the sky as the performances unfold. The al fresco dining experience from Shakespeare’s Kitchen adds to the allure, offering fresh, casual fare that can be enjoyed in the dining area or at your seats. Patrons are also welcome to bring their own food and beverages, making it a picnic-like affair that suits all tastes.
The event is not just about the theater; it’s a holistic experience that includes live entertainment seven nights a week. The lineup is filled with ballet, jazz, and rock cover bands, ensuring there is something for every musical preference. The atmosphere is vibrant and family-friendly, making it an ideal outing for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Notable guests and performers include the talented casts of *Twelfth Night* and *Peter and the Starcatcher*, as well as various local and regional musicians who contribute to the festival’s rich cultural tapestry. Local legends and community members also play a significant role, adding a layer of authenticity and community spirit to the event.
What makes the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival truly unique is its blend of classic theater with the natural splendor of Lake Tahoe. As the sun sets over the Sierra Nevada, the stage comes alive with the works of Shakespeare, creating a magical experience that is both timeless and contemporary. This is an event where the boundaries between audience and performers blur, where the epic beauty of nature enhances the emotional depth of the performances, and where every evening becomes a memorable celebration of art, nature, and community.