While Southern California brings to mind images of sun, sand, and surf during the summer months, the winter months can be just as intriguing, especially when you find yourself spending time in Big Bear Lake. This charming and family-friendly city has the ski resorts, boutiques, and restaurants that keep a getaway full of adventure from start to finish. When you’re looking for that ideal place to ring in the New Year, look no further than Big Bear Lake. Whether you love to ski, take in the lights or simply sit back and enjoy something savory to start the year off right, Big Bear Lake has a little something for everyone. Here are a few Big Bear Lake New Year’s highlights you won’t want to miss.
Every year on December 31st, Big Bear Mountain Resort’s Snow Summit hosts a New Year’s party that’s hard to top! Known as the Torchlight Parade, guests are invited to make their way to Snow Summit to enjoy a variety of family-fun activities, crafts and games before making their way to the base of the mountain to watch over 200 skiers make their way down with torches in hand. It’s a glittering and mesmerizing moment that proves just as inspiring as it is beautiful. Admission to this event is free and the parade generally begins around 7:00 pm. A New Year’s Eve party follows the Torchlight Parade and guests can enjoy face painting, bouncy houses, a live DJ and even fire dancers!
Those who prefer to extend their Big Bear New Year’s events throughout the entire day and are looking to stay mountainside will want to make plans to celebrate at Grizzly Ridge Tube Park. Opening at 8:30 am, guests can enjoy a day of ski lessons, tubing and snowboarding adventures that won’t stop until the new year has started. This is a great place to bring kids with slopes and activities that can accommodate visitors of all ages and ski abilities.
Of course, when you come this New Year’s, make sure you take some time to revisit those memories of classic winter fun from your youth. If you’d like to relive those memories of sledding and snow fun, head on over to Big Bear Snow Play, which hosts the longest run in southern California! Enjoy soaring down the run upon your tube as the cold breeze lashes at your cheeks and the trees fly by in a blur. As well, you can really spice it up in the New Year’s spirit by trying out their glow tubing which will have you soaring down the run as lights dance around you and create a rather whimsical experience. Of course, one could truly go the old-fashioned route by seeking out your own run, and you’ll find plenty of snowy white hills scattered around the area. For instance, head on over to Aspen Glen Picnic Area, Grays Peak Trail, or Cougar Crest Trail.
You’ll find that scattered throughout our lovely city are a plethora of unique activities for you to enjoy. For instance, you might enjoy a holiday themed escape room where you can all put your minds to the test as you attempt to escape your capture using only your ingenuity. Not to mention, if you head on over to Big Bear Escape Rooms, you’re almost assured to find award-winning themed rooms that will have you immersed in the experience in a way you didn’t expect. Of course, one could also make the most of seeing the more artistic side of Big Bear and head over to the Big Bear Theatre Project to enjoy a variety of plays and musicals. With shows including the intricacies of Shakespeare (with a bit of beer added in of course), a special and unique take upon A Christmas Carol, and much more, you are sure to find a noteworthy performance from the best Big Bear has to offer!
Of course, no New Year’s holiday is complete without trying some of the local cuisine—you may even find a few new favorites! For instance, if you are craving the flavors of Italy, then make sure you stop by and try out Maggio’s Pizza, which features a variety of meals such as pizzas featuring all your favorite toppings, carefully made pastas that are rich in the flavors of the Mediterranean, and even specialty subs. Of course, one can also try the classic home-made favorites at Teddy Bear Restaurant, where you will enjoy everything from mouthwatering breakfasts of hash and eggs, pancakes, waffles, omelets, and more to the delectable burgers offered at lunch. Just make sure you take the time to grab a homemade pie while before you leave! Of course, if you are looking for something a bit more elegant, check out the Peppercorn Grille, which features a beautiful dining room with cozy and private booths for you to enjoy their extensive menu including from crab cakes to pizzas, calamari, lobster ravioli, and everything in-between!
When you’re planning to have a Big Bear New Year’s, skip the hassle of trying to find a hotel and let the team at Big Bear Vacations help you find a gorgeous and conveniently located vacation rental. We’ll help you customize your stay to include those fine extras you’ve been craving too. Contact us for more information on our properties and to begin planning your trip!
