As we enter November, Thanksgiving is just around the corner and festive cheer starts to fill the air. Things are no different in Big Bear – save for the November visitors looking to avoid the crowds that descend upon town during ski season, December to March.
Early November is when Big Bear’s fall foliage typically peaks; from there, the town begins its transformation into a winter wonderland and playground. Regardless, there’s plenty to do in Big Bear this month, and in this post, we take a look at some of the events and activities that you can look forward to if you decide to visit this little corner of California.
Big Bear Events: November 2024
As the autumn comes to an end, the town of Big Bear prepares itself for the surge in tourists and visitors that are expected from December to February.
There are still plenty of community events that you can look forward to in November, however, with some of the standouts including:
1. Big Bear Grizzly 100 & Gran Fondo
The 2024 edition of the premier mountain biking event in Big Bear was originally scheduled to take place in early October. However, due to route closures as a result of the Line Fire, the event was rescheduled for November 2nd.
The Big Bear Grizzly 100km mountain biking endurance race features some of the best views and most technical riding track in California, with plenty of cash prizes to be won. Casual riders can also join in the Gran Fondo mountain bike ride that features shorter rides of 30km and 50km while still providing great views of the surrounding San Bernardino mountains. UPDATE: 2024’s race has already taken place.
2. Big Bear Lake Comedy Festival
There’s nothing like a good laugh to top off a day of fishing on the lake or hiking on the beautiful mountain trails that surround Big Bear.
On the 15th and 16th of November, you can enjoy just that as the Big Bear Lake Comedy Festival returns for its 2024 edition. If you enjoy stand-up comedy, don’t miss this opportunity to be entertained at various locations across town, including the Performing Arts Center and Nottingham’s Tavern.
3. Mountain Christmas Boutique
Ring in the Christmas cheer with the Mountain Christmas Boutique happening from November 28th to November 30th at the Big Bear Convention Center. This Christmas market costs just $4 to enter for adults and features arts and crafts from local shops and artisans.
Get your Christmas shopping done here while enjoying a variety of holiday-themed food and drinks. Families can also look forward to plenty of activities to keep the children entertained, including craft-making activities and even a free visit from Santa Claus.
4. Big Bear Turkey Trot
To celebrate Thanksgiving, you can also look forward to the Big Bear Turkey Trot happening on the 28th of November. All proceeds from this event will be donated to Open Air Big Bear, a non-profit organization that supports outdoor events and activities for the local community.
The event features 3, 6 and 9 mile routes that you can opt to walk or run. Strollers are also welcome, making this a great family friendly event. There will also be plenty of refreshments as well as a costume contest, where the best dressed individuals can win attractive prizes.
5. The Village Tree Lighting Ceremony
End the month with Big Bear’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony happening in the town’s charming Village district on the 29th of November starting from 5pm.
There will also be a visit from Santa Claus at the event, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
Things to Do in Late Autumn
There are also plenty of activities that you can enjoy in Big Bear during the late autumn months, including:
1. Big Bear Mountain Resort Opening
Opening day for the 2024-2025 ski season at the Big Bear Mountain Resort are still yet to be determined and will depend on snowfall conditions — it can fall anytime between mid-November and early December. Nonetheless, for a shot at being one of the first on the slopes, you can consider booking your trip towards mid to late November, which is when the first snowfalls are expected this year.
As the go-to destination for winter sports in Southern California, Big Bear now has three different summits catering to skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. Beginners and families can enjoy countless hours of fun at Snow Valley and Snow Summit, whereas adrenaline seekers will undoubtedly enjoy the terrain parks at Bear Mountain.
2. Hiking along Big Bear Lake Trails
There are plenty of scenic hiking trails that you can enjoy in and around Big Bear. The early to mid November period offers some of the best conditions for hiking because of the cool weather and fall foliage.
You won’t need to bring along snowshoes; snow only begins to fall in Big Bear towards late November and early December.
Booking a Cabin Rental in Big Bear
If you’re planning a trip to Big Bear this month, booking accommodation is likely one of your top priorities. As with most hotels and vacation rentals, it’s always a good idea to book as early as possible to give yourself the most options and to take advantage of the best rates. (And like everywhere else, rates are typically less expensive through mid-December.)
When it comes to holidays in smaller towns such as Big Bear, staying in a mountain cabin is the best way to get an authentic feel for the town and to experience local hospitality at its finest. To book your cabin rental in Big Bear, check out our luxury, family, large-group and pet-friendly rental options here!
With one of the best selections of Big Bear cabin rentals available, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
