One thing is for certain about the town of Truckee not to mention all those who choose to live here and that is that there is absolutely no shortage of human spirit nor vitality. Currently, we are seeing unusual weather patterns come through the area, unusual for this time of year anyway. This winter season seems unwilling to relinquish its grip over the northern Sierra and although I am sure I can speak for everyone affected when I say I would much rather be wearing shorts and sandals at this point in the year, I can also say that I am grateful for the additional precipitation if it means we have a diminished wildfire season later this summer.

With that being said, there are several outdoor events taking place over the next few weeks which might have to be enjoyed in the cold rain (and perhaps snow), but which will be enjoyed fervently nonetheless, for they will be attended by the spirited locals and visitors that make Truckee such a vibrant and special place.

To kick off the summer event season over this Memorial Day weekend, The Village at Squaw Valley will be hosting its annual Made in Tahoe Festival on May 25th & 26th. Admission to this event is FREE and attendees will have the opportunity to peruse and purchase goods manufactured in or inspired by the Tahoe Basin/Truckee region. Local food and beer will be offered as well as a robust lineup of LIVE music acts such as the Sam Ravenna band and Peter Joseph Burtt & The King Tide. For a schedule of performances and workshops, go here and plan your visit. Rain or shine, the fun will be had!

The following weekend, the Town of Truckee will thaw out from the winter season with its 2nd annual Truckee Craw Thaw Music Festival. Celebrating the heritage of perhaps our country's most cultural city of New Orleans, Truckee's Craw Thaw showcases LIVE musical acts and offers cuisine heralding from the Big Easy. This 3-day event will begin on the evening of May 31st and is FREE! With a talented lineup of artists who are sure to electrify the main stage and energize downtown historic Truckee, this is a 3-day event not to be missed. All proceeds from the event will go towards local non-profits, but if you'd like to take your support to the highest level, a Wildfire Relief Brunch will be held on Sunday, June 3rd from 10:00 AM—12:00 PM. This is a private event within the event ($100 per person/21+ only) where a delicious Cajun style sit-down meal will be served and a LIVE performance will be given by the Craw Mafia. Again, come rain, snow, or shine, this event is sure to be a spicy Cajun good time, so put it in on your calendar and come on out!

Lastly, on Saturday, June 8th Truckee will host its ever-popular Brew Fest from 1—5 PM at the Truckee River Regional Park. $35 will get you a pre-sale ticket, waiting to purchase one at the door will cost you $40.  This event is 21+ but benefits our local Truckee youth. With the craft beer movement showing no sign of slowing down, you can believe that the breweries in attendance, including our local pride Alibi Ale Works and Tahoe Mountain Brewery, will be pouring only the finest beer they have to offer. There are reputations at stake and competition is stiff!

The rain—and even the snow—may still be falling in May, but I am confident that all of the above mentioned events will be well attended despite Mother Nature's lack of cooperation. See you ALL there!