Après at Northstar: The Essence of Joy—by Nick Cisik

The best place for Après ski in Lake Tahoe can be found at Northstar.  Après is a versatile term, a French word meaning "after." Used in the parlance of our times, not to mention our region, it implies enjoyment of life through socializing and merry-making, but only after an activity has been completed. In this case, the activity is skiing, and ski we do. How one goes about enjoying her après can be as personal as how she goes about ordering her latte. Lucky for she who happens to be so particular that the resort at Northstar, California rolls out a daily variety of après offerings from 3-6 PM right in the heart of the Village. If you want to start at the bottom and work your way up, Après Alley is the place to begin. Located on the lower level of the Village, guests may pop by one of the eateries there for a special après offering. Los Altos should be your first stop, serving up healthy portions of authentic Mexican cuisine. Then there's TC's Pub with its 10 big screen televisions, perfect for catching the game, and Copper Lane Cafe, a purveyor of all things artisan. Let the live music lure you in. Above the Village ice skating rink you will find another opportunity to find your après. Here, Après Overlook brings together some of the most tried and true family oriented activities, perfect for spending time with the ones you hold most dear. Activities at this après locale include snow tubing, hot cocoa stations, a full wet bar, and comfortable seating to keep an eye on the kids who can also play the day (or night) away in the available snow play zones. Within the Cabana & Rink area of the Village, it is here that those familiar with Northstar know that après participants love to relax and unwind in front of a roaring fire pit. Sitting back and watching those who dare skate around the rink is now a Northstar tradition. S'mores can be roasted and craft cocktails sipped before or after a meal at one of several fine Village eateries found at rink side. Lastly, located at the bottom of Village Run, you'll find Après Beach, where Tavern '6330 heartily awaits your arrival, beckoning you near with fire pits and live music. Here, a fine selection of regional wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails will warm the mountain spirit. Enjoy the Tavern's famous butternut squash soup followed by a mouth-watering filet mignon while kids get their very own s'mores kit. To après or not to après? Is that even a question? No. But, how to do so most certainly is. With 8 inches of snow having accumulated over the past 24 hours and more on the way, we certainly have cause to celebrate. No matter how you choose to wind down after a day spent skiing or riding, do it responsibly and, most of all, enjoy!