America turns 250 this Fourth of July. As we celebrate right here in Incline Village, we want to honor the people who matter most – not just the ones with titles or uniforms, but anyone who has shown up, shown kindness, or made a difference.
The grandpa who served in World War II. The nurse who sat with a patient. The volunteer who never misses a food bank shift. Your person. Submit their name. Share a little of their story. We’ll publish it, print it, and bring it to the parade & community fair.
It’s official – registration is now open for the 2026 Local Heroes 4th of July Parade and the beloved Kids Bike Parade. And this year, we’re adding something brand new: awards in four categories selected by some of our VIP local heroes.
Two and a half centuries ago, America was built by everyday people with extraordinary courage. Every July, Incline Village and Crystal Bay honor that legacy right here at home – with a hometown procession of floats, fire trucks, classic cars, walking groups, youth clubs, service organizations, musical acts, and the real heroes who live and serve among us. Thursday, July 3, 2026, marks our biggest celebration yet, and we want YOU in it.
The Local Heroes 4th of July Parade is a centerpiece of a three-day celebration running July 2–4, alongside pancake breakfasts, the Community Fair, BBQs, ITF SummerFest, and a performance by the Tahoe Philharmonic. Whether you want to march, ride, roll, or cheer from the curb, there’s a place for you.
The Kids Bike Parade returns, too. The Diamond Peak Ski Team will facilitate the morning tradition that kicks off the day with streamers, spokes, helmets, and a whole lot of hometown pride. Bring the whole family and decorate a bike, wagon, trike, or scooter.
New for 2026: The Local Heroes Parade Contest
This year, float entries will be judged by a panel of local community leaders, withprizes awarded across four categories – open to schools, kids’ groups, non-profits, and businesses. It’s a fun way to celebrate the creativity, heart, and hometown spirit our paraders bring every year, and a chance to take home a little bragging right.
Categories include:
Most Creative Kids – For the most imaginative float entry from a school, youth group, or kids’ organization/business – entries that make the whole route smile.
Most Creative Non-Profit – For the community organization with the most imaginative, memorable entry.
Most Creative Business – For the local business whose float or group best captures the spirit of the day.
Most Patriotic – For the entry that makes hearts swell with red, white, and blue pride.
Awards designed and produced by Tahoe Gifting Co. — a locally crafted touch to match a locally made celebration.
Every registered float entry is automatically eligible. No separate contest form, no extra hoops – just bring your most creative, most patriotic, most joyful self to the parade route.
This year, for the first time, we will be implementing a modest registration fee for parade participants. As our event has grown, so have the costs associated with producing a first-class parade experience – including enhanced logistics, upgraded production elements, and expanded community programming. These fees help ensure we can continue to deliver the high-quality event our community deserves.
We deeply value the support of our IVCBA members, and that is reflected in our fee structure. Fees are tiered and discounted based on your membership level – the higher your membership tier, the greater your savings. When you log in as a registered IVCBA member to complete your parade registration, your applicable fees will be automatically calculated based on your membership status. No manual calculations needed.
Who Should Enter?
The short answer: everyone. The parade welcomes:
Floats, classic cars, and decorated vehicles
Walking groups, musical acts, and street performers
Schools, youth groups, and service clubs
Nonprofits, businesses, and community organizations
Veterans and military groups
Kids on bikes, trikes, scooters, and wagons – and yes, superhero parents too
In The News – Tahoe Fund, Barton Health launch $25,000 match for the Marsh Campaign
June 2, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 06/01/2026, Staff Report
The Tahoe Fund and Barton Health have launched a new fundraising campaign to help restore the Upper Truckee Marsh South in South Lake Tahoe—the former site of the Motel 6 property. If 250 community members donate $50 or more to the Match for the Marsh campaign by June 30, Barton Health will unlock an incredible $25,000 matching gift. Every donation will help bring this marsh back to life.
“For years, our partners at Barton Health have worked with us to support projects that improve our local environment,” said Amy Berry, Tahoe Fund CEO. “The public agencies have told us how critical local support is to securing the public funds we need. We hope everyone will jump at the chance to help unlock this generous gift from Barton, because it will have a major impact on one of the most important lake clarity projects in Tahoe.”
In The News – Nevada Department of Wildlife and Nevada State Parks discuss cold water shock and boating safety
June 2, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 6/2/2026, Written by Victoria Mastrocola
On Friday, May 29, the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) and Nevada State Parks gathered at Cave Rock State Park to talk about cold water shock awareness and boating safety as Lake Tahoe gears up for another busy season of water recreation.
“We’re out here because we want to make sure the public is aware of the dangers of cold water shock,” said Ashley Zeme, Boating Education Coordinator at NDOW.
The glacial waters of Lake Tahoe stay between 40 degrees and 70 degrees, depending on the season. In the shallows, you’ll find warmer temperatures in peak summer months, but out towards the middle of the lake, water temperatures can stay dangerously cold.
In The News – Homeowners attend wildfire preparedness event: Here are the resources if you couldn’t attend
May 29, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 5/29/2026, Written by Katelyn Welsh
Incline Village and Crystal Bay homeowners are heading into summer equipped with wildfire preparedness and mitigation knowledge after a seminar on Tuesday night at The Chateau.
Local real estate agent Kristie Wells brought together local experts in defensible space, home hardening, insurance and risk mitigation to provide property owners with clear, practical information and actionable guidance to reduce wildfire risk and protect their homes.
Attendees heard from the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, the Tahoe Resource Conservation District, State Farm, Peyton Insurance and others.
In The News – Tahoe Family Solutions pushes for more mental health support in Incline Village
May 28, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 5/28/2026, Written by Eli Ramos
Tahoe Family Solutions, the family resource center in Incline Village, has been providing therapy and mental health services at no cost to those in need. Their recent push for bilingual and culturally knowledgeable therapists is a critical step in providing care. Executive director Jody Wright and counselor Katie O’Hara spoke with the Tribune for Mental Health Awareness Month on the needs and impact that mental health services can bring to a community.
“The Tahoe Basin is a unique space, because even with a metropolitan area down the hill, it’s still considered a rural place,” said O’Hara. “There are difficulties with finding adequate services.” Incline Village has 11 therapists, with two that take insurance—the rest of them are private practices.
In 2024, Tahoe Family Solutions served 153 clients through counseling and 31 through psychiatry services. That psychiatric support is provided by Dr. Sukhi Johal, a board certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience and certifications in psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry and forensic psychiatry. Providing coordinated care in a rural, mountain community is particularly extraordinary.
4th Annual Thank A Vet Golf Tournament to Support Service Members Mental Health
May 28, 2026 | Member Submitted
Chase Rauchle PTSD NOW! will host its 4th Annual Thank A Vet Golf Tournament on June 15, 2026, in Incline Village at the Championship Course, bringing together community members and supporters to raise funds for service members mental health services.
PTSD NOW! is dedicated to providing immediate, no-cost access to mental health care for veterans, with a mission to reduce suicide and improve long-term wellbeing.
Through programs like Purple Resolve and Onward Ops, the organization continues to expand its reach across multiple states, ensuring that those who served have access to the care they deserve, when they need it most.
The 4th Annual Thank A Vet Golf Tournament is more than just a day on the course, it’s a meaningful opportunity to give back. Proceeds from the event directly fund therapy services for service members, helping eliminate financial barriers and providing life-changing support.
“We are honored to host this event in a place as special as Lake Tahoe,” said Craig Rauchle, President of PTSD NOW!. “Every dollar raised helps us provide immediate access to therapy for service members who might otherwise go without care. This event is about community, awareness, and action.”
Participants Will Enjoy:
18 holes of golf at a premier Championship Course in Incline Village
Service Member recognition moments
On-course contests and prizes
Post-tournament reception and auction
Local businesses and organizations are also invited to participate through sponsorship opportunities, helping amplify the event’s impact while aligning with a cause that directly supports the military community.
Event Details
Event: 4th Annual Thank A Vet Golf Tournament
Date: June 15, 2026
Location: Championship Course in Incline Village
Host: Chase Rauchle PTSD NOW!
Registration & Sponsorship
Spots are limited. To register or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Regional Animal Services Offers Free Dog Licenses Ahead of July 4th Holiday
May 28, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published with Washoe Life
For the first time, Washoe County Regional Animal Services is offering a free dog licensing promotion from June 1 through June 13 to help get current ID tags on dogs ahead of the busy July 4th holiday.
During the promotion, eligible dog owners can receive a free 1-year dog license, and all late fees will be waived. Dogs may qualify if they have never been licensed, have an expired license, or are eligible for license renewal of their existing license within 30 days.
“The week following the Fourth of July holiday is the busiest week for animal shelters across the country. Fireworks and holiday activity can be stressful for pets, and many become lost,” said Shyanne Schull, Director Regional Animal Services. “Licensing is a simple step and can be a lifeline to help reunite lost pets with their family.”
To receive the free license, dog owners must visit Washoe County Regional Animal Services in person and provide proof of current rabies vaccination. Dogs are welcome but do not need to be present.
Promotion Details:
Dates: June 1 – June 13
Location: Washoe County Regional Animal Services
Hours: Monday – Friday 8am -5pm and Saturday 9am-3pm
Address: 2825 Longley Lane, Suite A, Reno
Phone: 775-353-8900
Requirement: In-person licensing during business hours
Bring: Proof of current rabies vaccination
The promotion is part of WCRAS’ ongoing efforts to help lost pets return home quickly and safely. A current dog license provides an additional form of identification and helps Animal Services contact owners when a lost dog is found.
For more information, including eligibility details and frequently asked questions, visit Washoeanimals.com/FreeLicense.
It is that Time of Year Again! Free Music Around the Lake!
One of our favorite things about Lake Tahoe in the summer is all of the free music! You will always know where to find us on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays: dancing at the front of the crowd! Can’t wait to see you there!
Incline Village
May 17th – September 6th
IVGID Pass holders with beach access can enjoy live music on most Wednesdays and Fridays from 4-7pm all summer long, courtesy of Incline Spirits’ Incline Beach Barefoot Bar.
In The News – Incline boys golf team ends season as state champions
May 27, 2026 | Member Submitted
Originally published in the Tahoe Daily Tribune, 05/27/2026, Written by Katelyn Welsh
The Incline High School boys golf team continued an undefeated streak at the NIAA 2A Golf State Championships on May 12 and 13, becoming state champions and adding a line to the school’s record books.
Defying windy conditions at the Toiyabe Golf Club, the Highlianders won the tournament 41 strokes ahead of North Tahoe High School for the state title.
“Our boys stayed strong,” head coach Cory Coombes said, “slowed down and played the wind well.”
