Labor Day Weekend In Big Bear: Things To Do, Events & Where To Stay

Looking for the perfect way to celebrate the end of summer? Labor Day weekend in Big Bear combines warm days on the lake, cool mountain evenings, outdoor adventures, live entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to relax.

Whether you're planning a family vacation, couples getaway, or weekend with friends, Labor Day is the perfect excuse to escape the city and enjoy a few days in the mountains.

Here's your guide to spending Labor Day weekend in Big Bear.

Spend One Last Summer Weekend on Big Bear Lake

Labor Day weekend may mark the unofficial end of summer, but there's still time to enjoy Big Bear Lake.

Spend the day:

• Kayaking

• Paddleboarding

• Fishing

• Renting a pontoon boat

• Exploring the shoreline

• Having a lakeside picnic

• Relaxing and enjoying the mountain views

For an easier start to the day, head to the lake early before moving on to other activities around town.

See the Labor Day Drone Show

One of the highlights of Labor Day weekend in Big Bear is the annual Drone Show over Big Bear Lake.

Hundreds of illuminated drones take to the sky to create colorful designs above the lake, making it a memorable way to celebrate the holiday weekend.

For 2026, the Labor Day Drone Show is scheduled for September 6 at sundown.

Popular viewing areas include locations around the lake, The Village, Veterans Park, and Rotary Park.

Experience the Big Bear Rodeo & Carnival

Add something different to your Labor Day plans with a trip to the Big Bear Rodeo & Carnival.

The 2026 event takes place September 4 through September 6 and combines rodeo action with carnival rides, entertainment, food, and family-friendly activities.

It's an easy way to add an entire afternoon or evening of entertainment to your weekend.

Listen to Live Music in the Mountains

Summer isn't over quite yet.

Big Bear's Music in the Mountains concert series continues through Labor Day weekend, with a September 5 performance at the Big Bear Discovery Center.

Bring your friends or family and enjoy live music surrounded by the San Bernardino Mountains.

Explore The Village

Leave some time in your weekend to slow down and explore The Village.

Spend an afternoon browsing:

• Local boutiques

• Gift shops

• Coffee shops

• Restaurants

• Dessert spots

• Local businesses

It's also a great place to grab dinner before heading out for evening festivities.

Take a Hike

Labor Day weekend is a great opportunity to get outside and explore Big Bear's hiking trails.

Popular options include:

Castle Rock Trail

A popular hike with beautiful views overlooking Big Bear Lake.

Pine Knot Trail

Explore the forest and enjoy mountain scenery on a longer adventure.

Woodland Interpretive Trail

A more relaxed option that's especially good for families and visitors looking for an easier outdoor activity.

Start your hike early, bring plenty of water, and check current trail and weather conditions before leaving.

Enjoy an Evening at Your Cabin

Your Labor Day weekend doesn't need to be packed from morning until night.

Leave some time to enjoy your cabin.

Cook dinner together, play games, sit outside under the stars, or simply relax after a full day exploring Big Bear.

Sometimes the best part of a mountain vacation is having nowhere you need to be.

Turn Labor Day Into a Long Weekend

Instead of rushing back home after two nights, give yourself an extra day to enjoy Big Bear.

An additional night gives you more time for the lake, hiking, local restaurants, events, and relaxing at your cabin without trying to squeeze everything into one weekend.

Big Bear Experiences offers a selection of luxury cabin rentals that make the perfect home base for your Labor Day getaway.

Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or someone special, you'll have a comfortable place to return to after each day's adventures.

Plan Your Labor Day Weekend in Big Bear

Labor Day is your chance to enjoy one last summer escape before fall arrives in the mountains.

Spend your days on Big Bear Lake, explore scenic hiking trails, experience local events, wander through The Village, and end your evenings relaxing at your cabin.

Start planning your Labor Day getaway with Big Bear Experiences and make the most of the final days of summer in the mountains.