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Incline Fireworks: A Celebration of Independence and Stewardship

July 2, 2025 | Member Submitted

Originally Published in LIVE.WORK.PLAY. Magazine (Summer Edition), Written by Kristie Wells

As the Fourth of July approaches, the heart of Incline Village beats a little faster in anticipation of one of the North Shore’s most cherished traditions: the fireworks display over Lake Tahoe. This year, the sky will sparkle even brighter as locals and visitors gather to watch the breathtaking explosion of color, honoring our nation’s independence. But beneath the pyrotechnics, there’s a quieter celebration happening, a commitment to preserving the very beauty that makes Lake Tahoe so special.

Lake Tahoe is renowned for its pristine waters, a natural treasure that holds both ecological and economic value for our region. Recognizing the need to balance celebration with conservation, the Incline Fireworks team is dedicated to ensuring that this year’s festivities have no lasting environmental impact. The all-volunteer board knows that the beauty of the lake is at the heart of this community, and they are committed to protecting its health for generations to come.

We understand the importance of this event to our community,” says Sheila Leijon, Co-Chair of Incline Fireworks. “But we also know that Lake Tahoe is a treasure we must protect. That’s why every part of this event is designed with sustainability in mind.

This year, Incline Fireworks has strengthened its commitment to sustainability by teaming up with North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection and organizations like Clean Up The Lake, Eco Clean Solutions, IVGID Parks & Recreation, and Waste Not. Together, they’ll ensure that debris is removed before, during, and after the show. From diver teams working beneath the surface to shoreline crews cleaning the coast, no part of the lake will be left untouched. Post-event audits will test water quality, further solidifying our responsibility to keep Lake Tahoe as pristine as it was before the first firework soared into the sky.

Beyond the on-the-ground efforts, the Incline Fireworks team is collaborating with Lantis Fireworks to explore innovative pyrotechnic technologies that deliver stunning displays while minimizing their environmental impact, ensuring the beauty of the lake’s ecosystem is preserved for years to come.

Our goal isn’t just a one-night spectacular,” explains Leijon. “We’re working to build a sustainable program that can continue for years, supporting both our community and the environment.

Every dollar raised for the fireworks show is reinvested into the event itself. As the celebration grows, the board is also focused on creating an endowment fund that will support future fireworks displays and ensure that this cherished tradition remains financially viable, without compromising the lake’s health.

This July 4th, as you watch the sky light up, remember that every dollar raised helps preserve this incredible tradition for generations to come. Your support not only ensures the fireworks display will continue but also safeguards the beauty of Lake Tahoe. Donate today and be part of a celebration that honors both our nation and our natural environment.

So, come to the beach, raise a glass, and celebrate our nation’s independence while honoring the beauty of the lake that unites us all. Happy Fourth of July from Incline Fireworks!

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Celebrate Safely This 4th of July

June 30, 2025 | Member Submitted

Submitted by NLTFPD, Tia Rancourt, 06/30/2025

As Independence Day approaches, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District reminds residents and visitors that fireworks are illegal in the Tahoe Basin—on all public and private property, including U.S. Forest Service land. This includes all consumer fireworks, even those labeled “safe and sane,” brought in from outside the area.

Possession or use of fireworks is subject to civil and criminal penalties in Washoe County, Douglas County, and Carson City.

Leave fireworks to the professionals!  Catch one of these approved public displays on Friday, July 4:

  • Incline Village: 9:30 PM
  • Tahoe City: 9:30 PM
  • Truckee: 9:30 PM
  • South Lake Tahoe: 9:45 PM

Fire Season Restrictions – What You Need to Know:

  • Open burning has been prohibited since May 1.
  • Recreational wood or charcoal fires in screened, non-combustible containers require a permit and are not allowed at short-term rentals.
  • Gas, pellet, and charcoal grills are allowed—use safely and never leave them unattended.
  • No open flames on Red Flag Warning days.

Fireworks pose significant risks—fires, burns, injuries, and even death. Those responsible for fireworks use are liable for any resulting fires, injuries, or property damage. To dispose of fireworks safely and legally, you may turn them in to any local fire station at any time without penalty.

Beyond personal risk, illegal fireworks strain emergency resources and endanger our community. Help reduce preventable incidents—do not use consumer fireworks. Learn more about fireworks safety at nfpa.org.

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Celebrate Maestro James Rawie’s 20th  Annual Summer MusicFest with Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra & Chorus in the Red, White & Blue Salute To America- with Broadway, Opera & Patriotic Songs 

June 29, 2025 | Member Submitted

Maestro James Rawie founded TOCCATA Tahoe Symphony twenty years ago.  Today Maestro Rawie will delight you with our Tahoe Red White & Blue series of Patriotic Songs, a bit of Broadway and a dash of opera all performed by Tahoe Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus.   We help you celebrate the Fourth of July with family and friends close to home! This annual Red White and Blue Salute to America concert that Maestro Rawie has conducted for 20 years is a delightful summer event that we perform in two venues at the Lake  and in Reno. Revel in full orchestra and chorus performances of patriotic favorites, join in a sing-along, and, if you’re the highest bidder, conduct the orchestra in The Stars and Stripes Forever!

Get the most bang for your buck with this concert that truly has something for everyone, and brings the music practically to your door.  Show your true patriotic colors with the Armed Forces Medley (audience members from all branches of the services are honored), orchestra-chorus versions of the Battle Hymn of the Republic and  God Bless America, an audience sing-along of America the Beautiful, and, of course, The Stars and Stripes Forever (will you be the conductor?).

Take a sip of classical music with Beethoven’s finale to his choral fantasy which preceeded the great 9th Symphony Ode to Joy, or tap your toes to the Great Western Medley, and hear our brass choir dazzle you with sounds from Dvorak’s 9thSymphony “Going Home”.   A solemn moment gives you time to reflect with our  perennial favorite, John Williams Hymn to the Fallen.

Anyone who enjoys beautiful singing will love the duets and solos by our gifted operatic soloists Anne Davidson, Debbie Sessions, Lorelei van Peborgh and Stuart Duke.   The tutti finale is a toast to wine and good living with Verdi’s Brindis from La Traviata. Raise  your own glasses  in joy and friendship !

Tickets are $30 for adults or $40 for preferred seating/$15 youth; youth under 23 are free in general seating: Premium “front and center” seats are $50 for adults, $25 for youth.  Limited seating in the Founder’s Circle is $100 and will have special treats.  Seniors enjoy a discount in all seating areas.  Lawn seating is $15, bring your chairs and picnic basket.  Please reserve your space online.   

WHERE and WHEN:

Wed…….. July 2…….. 7pm….. INCLINE:……………………………….. St. Francis Church  •  701 Mt. Rose Highway

Friday….. July 4…….. 7pm….. RENO:……………………… Bartley Ranch Amphitheater 6000 Bartley Ranch Road

Sunday…. July 6…….. 4pm …. TAHOE CITY:…………………. NorthLake Tahoe High School- 2945 Polaris Road  

These concerts are made possible in part by generous gifts from Heidimarie Rochlin,  Kevan and Susan Lesch, Dennis & Dianne DeCuir and 2 anonymous benefactors.

For additional information, please call 775-298-6989; 

e-mail TahoePhilharmonic@gmail.com;

or visit us at www.Tahoe-Philharmonic.org or https://www.facebook.com/tahoephilharmonic

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Celebrating the Heart of Our Community: The Local Heroes Parade (Thursday, July 3)

June 25, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

This year’s Local Heroes Parade honors the people who make our community strong—veterans, firefighters, healthcare workers, educators, service workers, parents, and everyday heroes (yes, that includes YOU!).

Join us Thursday, July 3 at 10AM for this beloved Incline Village tradition. Suggested viewing areas include the intersection of Incline Way and Southwood Blvd and along Incline Way. Please plan ahead—there will be traffic impacts below Tahoe Blvd. from 8AM to 11:30AM. See parade route map.

The celebration begins with the always-popular Kids Bike Parade, organized with help from the Diamond Peak Ski Team. Once you see those young riders round the corner, you’ll know the main parade is just moments away!

To keep the energy high, keep an ear out for Jacked Up rocking the pre-parade tunes, and don’t miss the stirring sounds of the Sierra Highlander Pipe Band—yes, bagpipes included!

We’re also thrilled to welcome Miya LeFrancois, a talented 11-year-old performer with a passion for dance, music, and academics, who will perform the National Anthem. The Incline High School ROTC Color Guard will march as well.

And be on the lookout—the Ghost of Mark Twain himself (aka our very own McAvoy Layne) is rumored to be mingling with the crowd!

Make a day of it! Start your morning with the NLTFPD Pancake Breakfast and Flag Raising Ceremony, then head over to the Community Fair and BBQ on the Village Green immediately following the parade. Get the full July 2 – 4 Local Heroes Celebration schedule.

With more than 50 entries representing every corner of our community, this year’s parade is shaping up to be one of our biggest yet. Special thanks go out to Pam and Jeff Sheldon, the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), the Washoe County Sheriff’s OfficeWashoe County, the North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District, and all the volunteers who help decorate the route and bring the parade to life.

2025 Parade Entries

Gary Landgraf’s 1965 Amphibious Vehicle

Jim Perez and his 1965 Mustang

AAUW Tahoe Nevada Branch

Alfa Romeo Club –  1979 (Scully/Dennison)

Alfa Romeo Club – 1979 (Walsh)

Alfa Romeo Club – 1985

Alfa Romeo Club – E Buggy

Around Tahoe Tours

BIKE PARADE

Boys and Girls Club of North Tahoe

Bridget Giroux Design

Daisy Trails Forest preschool

Diamond Peak Ski Team

Garage Row Racing

Incline Village Community Hospital

Incline Education Fund

Incline High School ROTC

Incline Martial Arts

Incline Martial Arts

Incline Star Follies

Incline Village Republican Women

Inside Incline + Liz Olson

IVCBA

Jacked Up

Kuchulis and Simvoulakis Families

Lake Tahoe Markets – The Bounty of the Basin

Lee Family & Friends – Stars & Stripes Cruiser

Meals on Wheels Delivery Vehicle from Sierra Senior Services

Members of the Sierra Highlander Pipe Band (Bagpipers)

Miss Lake Tahoe (Chloe Menzies) with Pet Network Rescue Dogs

MIYA LEFRANCOIS – NATIONAL ANTHEM

Old Lake Tahoe Athletic Club

One Wheelers

Parade Grand Marshall Pete Todoroff

Pet Network Humane Society

Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1965 Convertible Raul Caceres

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1965 Coupe Rick Hartman

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1966 Convertible Gary Pavon

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1966 Convertible Larry Acker

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1966 Convertible Richard Cribben

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1968 Coupe Michael Herman

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1968 Coupe Ron Kalanick

Reno Mustang Car Club – 1999 Convertible Don Kiesel

Reno Mustang Car Club – 2006 Coupe James Vessells

Reno Mustang Car Club – 2012 Coupe Ricky Harold

Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline

Rotary Duck Drop Float by Rotary Club of Incline Village – Noon

SQ Enterprises

Tahoe Workz, Inc.

Tahoe-Incline Rotary Club

The Village Christian Academy & Preschool

Village Pet Foundation

Washoe County Roads Department Incline Village

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office

*This list is not the parade order.

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What to Know About Road Closures for the Local Heroes Parade on July 3rd

June 23, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

 It’s almost time for the beloved Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration, and the community parade on Thursday, July 3 will bring excitement, color—and temporary road closures—to central Incline Village.

If you plan to attend the event or move through town that morning, here’s what you need to know to navigate around parade-day closures and traffic impacts.

ROAD CLOSURES BEGIN AT 9 AM

Parade Route: The Local Heroes Parade begins at Tahoe Blvd and Southwood Blvd, travels along Incline Way, and finishes at the Village Green for a community fair and bbq, where the Kids Bike Parade concludes.

To ensure safety for participants and spectators, the following road closures will be in effect:

  • Village Blvd will be fully restricted to through traffic from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM.
  • 9:00 AM – Southwood Blvd, Oriole Way, and segments of Incline Way will begin closing for car and float staging.
  • 9:45 AM – Additional sections of Incline Way near Village Blvd will be closed as the Kids Bike Parade and walker staging gets underway.
  • 10:00 AM – All remaining sections of the route will be closed. 

PLAN AHEAD FOR DELAYS

Residents and visitors should plan for delays or detours between 8:30 AM and 11:30 AM. Please allow extra travel time and avoid Village Blvd during that window if not attending the parade.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

  • Parade starts at 10:00 AM
  • Staging for floats and cars begins at 8AM along Southwood Blvd and Oriole Way
  • Walkers & Kids Parade meet for bike decorating near Incline Way & Village Blvd
  • The parade ends at the Village Green—a perfect spot for post-parade celebration and a bbq!

View the full Local Heroes Celebration July 2 – 4, 2025 schedule at ivcba.org.

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Local Heroes Community Fair – July 3

June 18, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

Free BBQ • Games • Meet & Greet • Community Spirit at the Village Green

All about the Local Heroes Community Fair, a lively, family-friendly celebration happening on Thursday, July 3, from 11 AM to 3 PM at the Village Green (960 Lakeshore Blvd)—right after the beloved Local Heroes Parade!

This annual event, presented by IVGID Parks and Rec, is all about honoring the everyday heroes of North Lake Tahoe while bringing the community together for an afternoon of fun, food, and connection.

Event Highlights

  • Carnival Games & Bounce House
    Fun for all ages with help from our local youth and sports clubs.
  • Community Booths & Giveaways
    Explore booths hosted by nonprofits, local businesses, and service organizations sharing resources, goodies, and ways to get involved.
  • Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Meet & Greet
    Meet the team—including Captain Amelia Galicia and Lt. Joseph Colacurcio—and get hands-on with Sheriff vehicles.
  • Wild Bill’s BBQ presented by IVGID
    Enjoy classic BBQ fare, drinks, and spirits under the summer sun. (Click here for the menu)
  • Happy Tiers Bakery & Cafe
    Indulge in cinnamon rolls, cold brew, and sweet treats from a local favorite.
  • Susie Scoops Ice Cream Eating Contest @ 1 PM
    Back by popular demand! We all scream for ice cream! Don’t miss this hilarious (and delicious) tradition.

Want to Participate?

The Community Fair is free for both attendees and exhibitors. Organizations interested in hosting a booth must register by Sunday, June 23.  Tables and tents will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Part of the Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration

The Community Fair is just one part of IVCBA’s Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration, a full weekend of patriotic pride and community spirit happening July 2–4.

Let’s come together to celebrate the people who make our mountain home so special. Bring your friends, bring your family—and don’t forget your appetite!

Learn more at www.ivcba.org

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Kids Bike Parade Returns to Lead the Local Heroes Parade on July 3!

June 18, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

Presented and organized by the Diamond Peak Ski Team

The Local Heroes Kids Bike Parade is back and ready to roll on Thursday, July 3, leading off the annual Local Heroes Parade in Incline Village! This festive event invites kids of all ages to grab their bikes, scooters, wagons, or tricycles and ride at the front of the parade, celebrating community spirit and summer fun.

Deck Out Your Ride and Support Local Athletes!

Get ready to roll in style this Independence Day! The Diamond Peak Ski Team is selling festive Bike Decor Kits to help young riders shine in the Kids Bike Parade, on Thursday, July 3—and it’s all for a great cause.

Each kit is just $10, with red, white, and blue decorations perfect for celebrating Independence Day in true community spirit. You’ll find the kits available for purchase at the Bike Parade staging area on the morning of the event.

Proceeds support the Diamond Peak Ski Team, helping fund training, travel, and race opportunities for our local youth athletes.

Ride festive. Ride proud!

Event Details

When: Thursday, July 3
Check-in and bike decorating begin at 9:15 AM 
The parade kicks off promptly at 10:00 AM 

Where to Meet:
Walk or ride bikes to the IVGID Administration Building (893 Southwood Blvd)
NO CARS/PARKING/DROP-OFFS will be allowed at the staging area. 

The parade ends at Village Green, where the celebration continues with games, activities, and a community BBQ at the Local Heroes Community Fair!

Registration is required. Register Here.

A huge thanks to the Diamond Peak Ski Team for sponsoring and organizing this fun, family-friendly tradition that brings our community together each Fourth of July weekend.

Questions: email julie@ivcba.org

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Honoring Our Local Heroes: 2025 IVCB Veterans Events

June 11, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

The Incline Village and Crystal Bay (IVCB) community is proud to come together once again to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans. This year’s Local Heroes celebration features a lineup of events designed to recognize those who have bravely served our country — and to bring our community closer in appreciation and pride.

Local Heroes Parade | Thursday, July 3 at 10 AM

We are thrilled to announce that the 2025 Local Heroes Parade Grand Marshal is Mr. Pete Todoroff — a beloved longtime resident, decorated Navy veteran, and tireless advocate for the IVCB community.

Mr. Todoroff served as a U.S. Navy Corpsman from 1962 to 1966 at the San Diego Naval Hospital. He brought that same spirit of service home, becoming one of the five founding members of the IVCB Veterans Club. Over more than four decades in Incline Village, he’s helped launch the IV/CB Community Forum, chaired the IV/CAB for nine years, and raised more than $150,000 for the local library. His commitment has shaped countless initiatives, and his legacy continues to inspire.

Don’t miss a special parade highlight featuring ten members of the Reno Mustang Club with our own IVCB veterans riding in classic style — be sure to cheer them on as they roll by!

Veterans Recognition Reception |Thursday, July 3 at 6 PM | Aspen Grove
Sponsored by Cornerstone Church

An evening to honor those who’ve served — this reception is a heartfelt thank you to our veterans. Share stories, meet local heroes, and show your gratitude in a meaningful way.

Flag Retirement Ceremony | Thursday, July 3 at Dusk | Village Green

Following the reception, join us for the formal and respectful Flag Retirement Ceremony, hosted by the IVCB Veterans Club. Rumor has it that bagpipers from the Sierra Highlanders will lend a moving touch to this solemn tradition.

If you have an American flag ready for retirement, collection boxes are available at:

  • IVGID Recreation Center
  • Incline Village Library

For special drop-off arrangements, contact Lettie Miller at lettie66@icloud.com. If your flag has a unique story, please include a note — some may be shared during the ceremony.

IVCB Veterans Club Pancake Breakfast | Friday, July 4 from 8 AM–12 PM | Aspen Grove

Start your Independence Day with a delicious breakfast for a great cause! Enjoy pancakes, sausage, bacon, fresh blueberries, and optional Mimosas and Bloody Marys. All proceeds support IVCB veterans. Pay at the door — all are welcome! More info.

Visit the Veterans and First Responders Memorial at Village Green

While attending events, take a moment to visit the Veterans and First Responders Memorial at Village Green — a powerful tribute led by Michael Goss, who spearheaded the vision, funding, and approvals to bring it to life. A heartfelt thank you to all who helped make it happen, and to the organizations who continue to support our heroes:
IVCB Veterans Club, Onward Ops, PTSD Now!, and the Military Officers Association of America.

The IVCB Veterans Club continues to bring our community together through monthly meetings, guest speakers, and ongoing support programs. Veterans and community supporters alike are invited to attend and get involved.

Let’s show up for our veterans and make this year’s Local Heroes celebration the best yet.
Get all the details for July 2 – 4!

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Honoring a True Community Hero: 2025 Local Heroes Parade Grand Marshal Announced

June 3, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

We are proud to announce that the Grand Marshal of the 2025 Local Heroes Parade will be Mr. Pete Todoroff—beloved longtime resident, decorated veteran, and tireless community advocate of Incline Village.

Mr. Todoroff served our country as a U.S. Navy Corpsman from 1962 to 1966 at the San Diego Naval Hospital, and he brought that same spirit of service home to Incline Village, where he lived for more than 40 years. One of the five founding members of the Veterans Club of Incline Village and Crystal Bay, he has been instrumental in fostering a culture of support, respect, and civic pride throughout our community.

His legacy includes launching the IV/CB Community Forum, chairing the IV/CAB for nine years, and playing a pivotal role in raising over $150,000 for our Public Library. His commitment to making Incline Village and Crystal Bay a better place has not gone unnoticed—he was honored by local residents with an award of great appreciation “for his many contributions to our community.”

Please join us on July 3rd for the Local Heroes Parade as we celebrate Mr. Todoroff’s extraordinary service, both in uniform and as a community leader. It’s an honor well-deserved and a moment not to miss.

Get more information about the 2025 Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration presented by IVCBA.

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Join the Celebration! Be a Part of the Local Heroes 4th of July Parade.

May 28, 2025 | Julie Malkin-Manning

Summer is here, and that means it’s time to start getting excited for one of the most beloved events of the year—the annual Incline Village Crystal Bay Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration (July 2-4).

This cherished tradition brings together families, friends, neighbors, and local organizations in a vibrant celebration of our community and our country’s independence.

And we want YOU to be part of it!

Whether you’re a longtime resident, a local business owner, part of a youth group, school, club, or just someone who loves to celebrate, we invite you to register now to participate in the parade. Let’s make this year bigger, brighter, and more festive than ever!

Local Heroes Parade

Date: Thursday, July 3rd

Parade Start Time: 10:00 AM

Location: The Parade begins at Southwood and Village, and continues/concludes on Incline Way at The Village Green (Community Fair & BBQ)

How to Register

Click HERE to fill out the registration form. It’s quick and easy—and helps us ensure the parade is organized, safe, and fun for all!

Registration Deadline: June 23

Feel free to reach out to julie@ivcba.org with any questions about participation, float guidelines, or parade logistics.

**Kid’s Bike Parade Registration will be announced soon!**

Let’s come together, show our colors, and make this Local Heroes Celebration unforgettable. See you at the parade!

Get the whole Local Heroes 4th of July Celebration (July 2-4).

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