Labor Day Weekend in Big Bear Lake is the perfect way to wrap up summer. From exciting rodeo action and carnival rides to live music, classic cars, glowing golf, and a spectacular show over the lake, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the long weekend in the mountains.
If you're planning a getaway to Big Bear this Labor Day, September 4–6, 2026, pack your bags, grab your cowboy boots, and get ready for a weekend filled with mountain town fun!
Big Bear Rodeo & Carnival
September 4–6, 2026 | Sandalwood Drive, Big Bear Lake
One of the biggest highlights of Labor Day Weekend is the Big Bear Rodeo & Carnival.
This annual celebration brings the excitement of the Old West to the mountains with thrilling rodeo action, Western entertainment, carnival rides, food, and plenty of family friendly fun.
The weekend kicks off Friday with a free admission opening day carnival. Saturday brings the first night of rodeo entertainment, while Sunday features another rodeo night along with entertainment, carnival rides, and a Cowboy Church service.
Whether you're a longtime rodeo fan or experiencing it for the first time, this is one Labor Day tradition you won't want to miss.
Event schedule:
- Friday, September 4: Opening Day Carnival — 12 PM–10 PM
- Saturday, September 5: Rodeo, entertainment & carnival — 12 PM–10 PM
- Sunday, September 6: Rodeo, entertainment, Cowboy Church & carnival — 10 AM–10 PM
For tickets and event details, visit the Big Bear Rodeo & Carnival event page.
Cool Run in the Mountains
September 5, 2026 | Big Bear Lake Convention Center
Car enthusiasts won't want to miss the Annual Cool Run in the Mountains Car Show.
Hosted by the RodRiders Car Club of Big Bear, the event features more than 100 unique and classic cars, along with vendors and live entertainment. Best of all, admission is free for spectators.
The event also gives back to the local community, raising funds for charities including Doves and local animal rescue programs.
It's a great stop for families, automotive fans, and anyone looking for something fun to do during the day before heading out for the evening's festivities.
Glow Golf Under the Stars
September 4–6, 2026 | Bear Mountain Golf Course
Looking for something a little different?
Head to Bear Mountain Golf Course for Labor Day Weekend Glow Golf, where you can enjoy a unique nighttime 9-hole golf experience with glowing golf balls and a course lit up under the stars.
The evening begins with dinner and drinks before golfers take to the course for a shotgun start at 8 PM.
It's a fun way to spend an evening in Big Bear and a memorable experience for both golfers and groups of friends.
Music in the Mountains
September 5, 2026 | Big Bear Discovery Center
Keep the Labor Day festivities going with Music in the Mountains, a summer concert series presented by the Southern California Mountains Foundation.
The September 5 show runs from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM at the Big Bear Discovery Center and features classic rock and country tribute performances.
Surrounded by the San Bernardino Mountains, it's a wonderful way to enjoy live music while taking in the scenery and cool mountain air.
Big Bear Lake Boat Parade of Lights
September 6, 2026 | 7 PM–9 PM
As the sun goes down on Labor Day Weekend, head toward the shoreline for the Big Bear Lake Boat Parade of Lights.
Decorated boats cruise around the lake in a colorful nighttime celebration that's fun for the entire family. Spectators can find viewing spots along the shoreline, near parks, and around local marinas.
The parade is also a community-focused event that supports the Rotary Club of Big Bear Lake and local charities.
And the fun doesn't stop when the boats pass by the evening leads into one of the weekend's biggest spectacles.
Labor Day Weekend Drone Show
September 6, 2026 | Starts at Sundown
End your Labor Day Weekend in spectacular fashion with the Labor Day Drone Show, hosted by Visit Big Bear.
Hundreds of illuminated drones will light up the night sky above Big Bear Lake in a choreographed display. The show launches from Pine Knot Marina and can be viewed from locations including Veterans' Park, The Village, and nearby areas.
For many visitors, this is the perfect finale to a weekend in the mountains: cool evening air, beautiful lake views, and an unforgettable light show overhead.
More Ways to Enjoy Labor Day in Big Bear
Of course, you don't have to spend your entire weekend at events.
Between activities, take some time to enjoy everything that makes Big Bear special. Spend the morning hiking one of the area's scenic trails, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake, browse the shops and restaurants in The Village, or simply relax at your cabin and enjoy the mountain scenery.
For visitors looking for transportation between the Village and local hiking areas, Trolley to Trails operates on weekends and holiday Fridays through October 3, 2026, offering a free seasonal route around Big Bear Lake.
Make Big Bear Your Labor Day Weekend Getaway
Labor Day is more than the unofficial end of summer, it's an opportunity to slow down, spend time with family and friends, and make one more great mountain memory before the season changes.
With the Big Bear Rodeo & Carnival, live music, classic cars, glow golf, the Boat Parade of Lights, and the spectacular Labor Day Drone Show, September 4–6 is shaping up to be an unforgettable weekend in Big Bear Lake.
Make your plans early, find the perfect cabin, and get ready to experience Labor Day the Big Bear way.
Ready to plan your getaway? Browse our Cool Cabins and find the perfect place to stay for Labor Day Weekend.
Event dates, times, admission, and schedules are subject to change. We recommend checking the official event listings before attending.