Winter Outdoor Retailer is not only the biggest winter trade show in the country, it's also the biggest party. What happens when you get thousands of manufacturers, retailers, and media outlets in one place and add beer? FUN.

It's simply overwhelming to walk amongst all the technical innovations and new products. It's a sensory overload: bright colors and bold statements compete for your attention on every corner. The biggest booths, like those from Keen, Patagonia, Black Diamond and Mountain Hardware were massive: larger than my own retail store!

Every day at 4:00 the happy hours and giveaways start happening: kegs of beer are tapped, products are thrown into crowds, bikes and skis are raffled off, booths offer insane deals on gear, and bands start to play. At the Mountain Khakis booth, you could donate $20 to benefit the Grand Teton National Park Foundation and take a ride on the mechanical bull. At most booths, you could donate $5 to benefit non-profits such as 1% for the Planet in exchange for a sweet stainless steel cup with endless refills of beer.

Products debuted at the 2013 Winter Outdoor Retailer will be released in the fall of 2013. Local Tahoe retailers that carry these brands include:

• Wattabike
• South Shore Snow
• Sierra Ski and Cycle Works
• Lake of the Sky Outfitters
• Sports LTD

Are you already in love with a product we featured in our Outdoor Retailer wrap-up? Call your local Tahoe South retailer today and let them know about your interest! What you missed in the Outdoor Retailer wrap-up: Hard Goods Sneak Peak and Colorful Winter Apparel

Lauren is one of our regular blog contributors. Read about her crazy fun adventures as a passionate photographer, athlete and traveler on her personal blog.