Cable cars, Mammoth Mountain

The Events & Festivals That You Can’t-Miss in Mammoth Lakes

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Mammoth Lakes is home to an array of exciting events that take place from the snowy winter months to the sun-soaked spring and summer.

We’ve curated a guide to the best local offerings from January through to December, and from triathlons to beer festivals or pro motocross contests, there is sure to be something that will take your fancy. So, without further ado, here is a covetable list that will help you decide when you want to visit this beautiful Californian destination.

Sprint US Snowboarding Grand Prix

When: January / February 

This is a high-octane event that sees some of the top athletes competing in a Freeski and snowboarding Grand Prix. Just as the slopes come to life with contestants and a flurry of fans on the side lines, so too does the area as a whole; expect a lively village atmosphere with street vendors and music, such as the much-loved annual concert.

Mammoth Parks snowboarder

Mammoth Lakes Film Festival

When: May

Since its inception in 2007, people from all over the world have flocked to Mammoth Lakes to be part of their Film Festival experience. The event spans 5 days, during which more than 50 new independent films will be shown, and the area buzzes with excitement and creativity. You can get fully stuck in with an ‘All Movie Pass’ or just buy tickets for individual screenings that take your fancy. Either way, it’s sure to ignite your passion for film.

Monster Energy Mammoth Motocross

When: June

Cast your mind back almost half a century to 1968 and that is the birth year of this popular annual event. Originally started by a group of friends with a love of off-road motorcycling, they decided to build a race track 8,000 feet up in the Sierra Nevada. The Monster Energy Mammoth Motocross has been a hit ever since and the hills come alive with the hum of bikes making their way around the course.

Mammoth Food & Wine Experience

When: June

Two of our favourite words, food and wine, this weekend event celebrates all things gourmet, with a jam-packed schedule. You’ll find thought-provoking talks, alongside educational wine pairings and entertaining events such as the ‘Best of the Best Burger Battle’. A feast for the mind, the eyes and the stomach.

June Lake Triathlon

When: June

Known as ‘The Toughest Race in the Most Beautiful Place’, the June Lake Triathlon is one for the more active among you to master. If you don’t fancy taking part, watch this exciting event and cheer the participants along. Set in High Sierra Alpine landscape just 14 miles north of Mammoth Lakes, the triathlon features a refreshing swim, a mountainous cycle and gruelling run, all in a truly beautiful setting.

The Mammoth Festival of Beers and Bluesapalooz

When: July 

What’s not to love about a festival of beer and music? For four days each year the area comes to life with an exciting line-up of music concerts (with over 20 bands performing) and unlimited beer tasting from craft-brews around the country.

The Mammoth Margarita Festival

When: August

If you don’t already have a penchant for Margarita’s, then you probably will after this festival. As the name would suggest, the aim of the game is to celebrate these tangy tequila cocktails, which are served in abundance at all sorts of bars and pop-ups, alongside live music with a Latin American twist.

Mammoth Kamikaze Bike Games

When: September

With over 70 miles of single track biking terrain, it is little wonder Mammoth Lakes hosts the annual Kamikaze Bike Games. Professionals and enthusiasts take to the tracks to show off their mountain bike moves as they make their way around various beautiful tracks carved into the hillsides. An adrenalin filled visual spectacle.

Night of Lights Festival

When: December

There are few better places to get into the festive spirit than at the annual Night of Lights Festival in Mammoth Lakes. Stay warm around one of the many fire pits, as you are treated to delicious warm snacks and hot beverages, while Christmas music fills the air. Watch as Father Christmas arrives to meet an eagerly awaiting crowd before he lights up the Christmas tree. It’s magical welcome to the festive season that will fill you with child-like excitement once again.