Santa can be spotted this time of year everywhere including tropical places where palm trees sway with island breezes. When it comes to places where the biggest North Pole occupant feels right at home, Tahoe City is one of them.

That does not surprise Tahoe City Downtown Association Executive Director Justin Broglio.

“All the resorts are open, snow is on the ground and the sun is high in the sky,” he said.

Santa is due to arrive just in time for the Saturday’s Tahoe City Family Winter Wonderland.

The festivities begin at 11a.m. when pictures with Santa photos will be available at Heritage Plaza until 3 p.m. The Barifot Mountain Photography sitting fee is $15.

In an effort to bolster the local economy, merchants have adopted the nationwide 3/50 Project and its tagline “Save your local economy three stores at a time.” According to Broglio local businesses can see a dramatic upturn when as little as a total of $50 is spent monthly at three establishments.

Residents and visitors are invited to grab their Shop Local Card and stroll through the town or head to the annual Boatworks Mall Shopping Soiree from 3-6 p.m.

Everyone is urged to participate in the nationwide program Toys for Tots. Collection barrels will be available for unwrapped toys.

Santa roars back aboard a fire engine to Heritage Plaza in the early evening.

This time Jolly Saint Nick will not be the headliner, amid the caroling and hot chocolate sipping.

Towering timbers illuminated in holiday splendor has long been a Tahoe City tradition.

This year marks the debut of the town’s new 15’ LED Christmas tree. Environmentally friendly, the tree was bought in part through a grant by the local Rotarian club.

The switch will be turned on at 5:30 p.m.

Once again the official Christmas season will begin.