Ms. United World Sophia Nichole cheers for the fireworks at Heavenly Village on New Year's Eve.
StayLocal Tahoe 2024
Marked by a 65-foot Christmas tree and fireworks, the Heavenly Village overtook Stateline as the New Year’s Eve destination in the Lake Tahoe Basin this year, organizers said.
“Heavenly Village has redefined what it means to celebrate the holidays in Tahoe,” said TSI Investments and the Shops at Heavenly Village President and CEO Gary Casteel Jr. “We’ve worked tirelessly to create a one-of-a-kind experience, and this year’s turnout proves that Heavenly Village is now the premier destination for New Year’s Eve, not just in the Tahoe Basin, but beyond.”
Organizers estimated the New Year’s Eve Gondola Ball drop and midnight fireworks show drew more than 6,000 people to Heavenly Village, citing South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue.
On the Nevada side, estimates were that 2,000-2,500 people were in Stateline for New Year’s Eve, mostly around the Nugget Casino.
“Times have changed, and Heavenly Village is leading the way,” said El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf, who attended the event. “The energy here is electric, and it’s clear why people from all over are choosing to celebrate the new year in South Lake Tahoe.”
The Heavenly Holidays festivities included live entertainment from Dee Dee Simon, the star of NBC’s hit show “America’s Got Talent.” Joining her was Ms. United World Sophia Nichole, who lives in South Lake Tahoe.
“The vibe we’ve created at Heavenly Village is unmatched,” said event producer Dreu Murin. “Traditionally, we’ve celebrated East Coast New Year’s with the Gondola Ball Drop and a truly epic fireworks display, but recently, we’ve been asked multiple times to celebrate both East and West Coast New Year’s for 2025 because the energy here is so contagious. People simply didn’t want the night to end.”
Attractions included ice skating, a giant Ferris wheel, holiday photo opportunities, Stuff a Bear for the kids and live music made the event enjoyable for all ages.
Heavenly Village thanked Visit Lake Tahoe, the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority, the Tahoe Improvement District, Heavenly Mountain Resort, the Casteel Family at The Shops at Heavenly Village, South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue and South Lake Tahoe Police Department for their support.
