Christmas is magical, but white, crunchy snow takes it to another level. Snow transforms the season, offering unique activities and an atmosphere that’s impossible to replicate. Unfortunately, as someone who has lived in Saratoga since I was 5 years old, my Christmas feels incomplete.
Christmas is the perfect time to go to Tahoe. Skiing in snowy places like Tahoe is a classic winter activity. Nothing can compare to gliding down the slopes with the wind in your face and powder spraying on your skis. The chairlift rides offer stunning views of snow-covered mountains and, afterward, hot chocolate by a crackling fire warms me up. Without snow, those same ski resorts turn into dry, rocky landscapes. Hiking or mountain biking may be fun, but they lack the seasonal thrill.
Whether it’s building forts or throwing snowballs at siblings, it’s a tradition that brings families together. Without snow, those battles are impossible. Moreover, I find irreplaceable joy in building snowmen; rolling the snow into giant spheres, decorating them with scarves and hats and giving them goofy faces. Without snow, all you can do is try to make something out of sand or dirt, which, let’s be honest, is just not festive.
Snow also makes Christmas feel all the more magical. Snow-covered trees and houses sparkle under Christmas lights. To walk in a snowy landscape is to be transported into a dream. The streets are just streets; the air is dry; and the holiday lights aren’t as twinkly.
Even being inside feels nicer when there is snow outside. There is something to the sight of snow falling that is completed when one is wrapped in a blanket, sipping on hot chocolate. Snow makes Christmas feel cozier and just adds to moments like decorating the tree or baking cookies.
Of course, there are things to enjoy in the absence of snow, such as hiking, stargazing and even celebrating Christmas with beach-side barbecues, like in Australia. But they aren’t the same. Snow is what gives the season the feel of Christmas.
Without it, Christmas is incomplete. Snow means adventure, laughter and wonder during this holiday season. It creates moments you can’t replace, from skiing down snowy slopes to watching flakes fall from the sky simply. While Christmas without snow can be joyous, nothing beats the magic of a snow-filled winter wonderland. In other words, Christmas time is the perfect time to go to Tahoe.
