The Local Lens – Winterfest 2026: A Celebration of Community and Connection
March 4, 2026 | Member Submitted
Guest Writer, Samantha Zechman – University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe
Having moved to Incline Village just six months ago, one thing quickly became clear: this is a tight-knit community that truly shows up for one another. Each weekend event, local news story, and Facebook post has revealed a village that rallies together, generous with its time, supportive of its neighbors, and deeply invested in the well-being of the place it calls home.
When I was given the opportunity to plan Winterfest, the vision for the event came naturally. The transition from Sierra Nevada University to the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe has brought change, and with change often comes uncertainty. What felt most important was creating space for connection: connection to the campus, to one another, and to the future of this evolving partnership between the university and Incline Village.
Winterfest became our invitation.
As we celebrate the seasonal shift from winter to spring, we also celebrate a renewed relationship between the university and the community, one rooted in transparency, collaboration, and shared experiences. This campus belongs to the community as much as it belongs to our students, and Winterfest reflects that belief.
With the support of Linda Offerdahl and Denise Menzies, my introduction to Incline Village has been both joyful and inspiring. Together, we secured more than 20 local organizations to lead family-friendly activities, offer health and wellness resources, share local eats, and provide live entertainment. The afternoon promises something for everyone.
Children can enjoy hands-on arts and crafts with Pet Network and the American Association of University Women, free books from the Rotary Club of Tahoe-Incline, interactive science demonstrations with university staff, and face painting from local volunteers. Community members can test their coordination with the sheriff’s department, photos at festive backdrops by the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival and Diamond Peak staff, and dance to the upbeat sounds of the local band, Jacked-Up. Guests will also enjoy a special demonstration by the Sierra Alphorn Players, competitions led by Achieve Tahoe, and the inaugural color powder toss at 5:30 p.m. on the main lawn, set against the backdrop of the campus.
Guests can also enjoy hot chocolate, s’mores, and sno-cones, offered by local donors. These treats will be available on a donation basis, with proceeds supporting two outstanding educational programs serving students with special needs: The Newton School and the Path to Independence Program at the University of Nevada, Reno.
This component of Winterfest is especially meaningful. In previous roles as an Assistant Principal of Specialized Services and as a Special Education teacher, I had the privilege of working closely with students and families navigating unique learning journeys. Supporting programs that expand opportunities for students with disabilities is not just important, it is personal. I am honored to help elevate the work these organizations are doing in our broader community.
Winterfest is about more than a single afternoon of celebration. It is about showing up for one another, opening our doors wider, and recognizing what is possible when a community and its university grow together.
Join us March 7 from 2 to 6PM at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe. We look forward to celebrating with you!