October Events in Truckee and Lake Tahoe

Fall in Lake Tahoe reaches its peak during the local Halloween festivities around the lake. Truckee is preparing to kick off Halloween with many different events, including a costume parade, haunted hikes and trick or treating events.

October 11 Fall Festival Northwoods Clubhouse

October 25 Truckee Downtown Costume Parade and Trick or Treat

Click here to view all of the spooktacular events happening in Truckee to celebrate Halloween.

A New Era of Mountain Dining

Northstar California offers a diversity of restaurants and the Ritz Carlton, located in Northstar, has always been the go-to choice for fine dining. A fresh culinary experience is opening at the Ritz Carlton just in time for Halloween.

High above the pines and powder of North Lake Tahoe, Montessa, Cantina Moderna will open on October 23,2025. This brings vibrant Mexican flavors and warm hospitality to the resort’s luxurious alpine setting.

A Taste of Mexico Meets the Spirit of the Sierra

Montessa isn’t your typical mountain restaurant. Its name, evoking rugged beauty and elevation, mirrors the energy of its cuisine — lively, colorful, and grounded in tradition. Here, guests can expect bold dishes inspired by the markets and cantinas of Mexico, served with the elegance and attention to detail that defines The Ritz-Carlton experience.

The cantina is designed as a place where skiers, hikers, and resort guests can gather, unwind, and celebrate the day. Whether you’re coming straight off the slopes or settling in for a long evening with friends, Montessa’s atmosphere invites you to linger.

The Look and Feel

Inside, Montessa strikes a balance between mountain modern and Mexican soul. Warm wood, hand-crafted tile, and soft lighting create an inviting, energetic space that feels both upscale and relaxed. The open kitchen adds to the sense of connection — you can watch tortillas being pressed, tacos assembled, and cocktails crafted to order.

It’s a setting that feels instantly alive, perfectly matching the flavors on the plate.

The Menu: Bright, Fresh, and Bold

Montessa’s menu celebrates the richness of Mexican cuisine through a fresh, modern lens. Expect hand-pressed masa tortillas, slow-braised meats, and coastal ceviches made with pristine ingredients. Signature dishes include street tacos filled with tender carnitas, crispy quesabirria, and ceviche tostadas that balance acidity and spice with precision.

Desserts lean toward the nostalgic — a creamy tres leches cake or silken flan — given a refined, resort-level touch.

Drinks That Tell a Story

Montessa’s bar program takes tequila and mezcal seriously, offering a curated list of spirits alongside inventive cocktails and margaritas made with fresh fruit and house-made syrups. For those seeking something unique, Montessa also features locally crafted beer and vibrant non-alcoholic options like cucumber-lime coolers and agave spritzes.

Each drink is designed to complement the food and the mood — bright, refreshing, and full of character.

A New Gathering Place for Tahoe

With its opening, Montessa adds a new dimension to Lake Tahoe’s dining scene. It’s more than a restaurant; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and the joy of good food shared in good company. Whether you’re staying at The Ritz-Carlton or visiting from nearby Truckee or Incline Village, Montessa offers an experience worth seeking out — lively, flavorful, and distinctly memorable. For more information click here.

As the mountain air cools and ski season nears, Truckee is the perfect destination to view fall colors and holiday shop in the many quaint stores that line Downtown Truckee.

The real estate market around Northstar and in the North Lake Tahoe and Truckee areas has continued to show strong sales activity and an increase in listings. If you are thinking of purchasing that perfect mountain home in time for the 2025-2026 ski season, now is the time! Contact me today for more information about available homes for sale in Lake Tahoe.