RENO TAHOE USA
EVENTS & FESTIVALS 2016
RENO RODEO
BARRACUDA CHAMPIONSHIP
ARTOWN
LAKE TAHOE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
Photo: Joy Strotz
Photo: Marcello Rostagni HOT AUGUST NIGHTS
BURNING MAN
BEST IN THE WEST NUGGET RIB COOK-OFF
THE GREAT RENO BALLOON RACE
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AIR RACES
STREET VIBRATIONS FALL RALLY
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The Top Ten Let’s face it. Every destination claims to have great special events, but Reno Tahoe has oodles of EXTRAORDINARY special events that are absolutely amazing. Here are 10 celebrated 2016 events that make our destination notorious for guaranteeing a great time. Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg! Check out VisitRenoTahoe.com and discover your reason to plan a trip.
JUNE 16-25, RENO RODEO JUNE 27-JULY 3, BARRACUDA CHAMPIONSHIP, PGA TOUR GOLF TOURNAMENT
JUNE 30-JULY 31, ARTOWN JULY 8-AUGUST 21, LAKE TAHOE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL AUGUST 2-7, HOT AUGUST NIGHTS AUGUST 28-SEPTEMBER 5, BURNING MAN AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 5, BEST IN THE WEST NUGGET RIB COOK-OFF
SEPTEMBER 9-11, THE GREAT RENO BALLOON RACE SEPTEMBER 14-18, NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AIR RACES SEPTEMBER 21-25, STREET VIBRATIONS FALL RALLY
Events & Festivals JANUARY 7-10 RENO LATIN DANCE FEST & SHOWCASE Downtown Reno A Latin dance festival featuring beginner bootcamps, dance parties and the world-class Dance Showcase. A variety of instructional workshops will be offered, including Bachata, Salsa, Kizomba and more. renolatindancefest.com
JANUARY 21-23 THE SHEEP SHOW Reno-Sparks Convention Center Wild Sheep Foundation is the largest conservation and mountain hunting convention and features hundreds of exhibitors, entertainers and educational events, as well as $5 million in online, silent and live auctions. The Expo is open to the public. wildsheepfoundation.org
JANUARY 29 BREW HAHA Downtown Sparks Enjoy all-you-can-drink responsibly at the 21st annual event. Sample more than 100 types of beer from local, regional and national breweries while enjoying great live music. nuggetcasinoresort.com
FEBRUARY 18-21 EAGLES & AGRICULTURE Carson Valley Explore the interaction between eagles and other raptors at the ranches of Carson Valley. The event includes tours of ranches accompanied by expert birders and historians, a wildlife photography class and the popular Owl Prowl and Falconers Dinner, where guests can get up close to a variety of raptors. carsonvalleynv.org
FEBRUARY – MARCH RAHLVES’ BANZI TOUR Lake Tahoe Big mountain freeride meets ski/boarder-cross event in head-tohead race action. The two stop tour has competitions at Kirkwood (Feb 27-28) and Sugar Bowl (Mar 5-6). rahlvesbanzi.com
MARCH 3-13 NORTH LAKE TAHOE SNOWFEST! North Lake Tahoe It’s the largest winter carnival west of the Mississippi; featuring a torchlight parade, laser show, fireworks, two downtown parades, GarWoods Polar Bear Swim, Dog Pull, The Great Ski Race, SnowFest! Queen and more. tahoesnowfestival.com
MARCH 4-6 MONSTER JAM Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center It’s the hottest edge-of-your-seat, live motor sports event on the planet and largest touring family show in North America! 1500 HP monster trucks fly 30 feet in the air, flattening anything in their path. monsterjam.com
MARCH 5-6 MCKINNEY CUP FAR WEST MASTERS RACE Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe Watch some the fastest skiers face off in two days of Giant Slalom on Silver Dollar, one of the best GS hills in the Far West that features a long course with interesting terrain. skirose.com
MARCH 12 ROCKY MOUNTAIN OYSTER FRY & ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE Virginia City This historic mining town goes “nuts” for St. Patrick’s Day as folks line up to sample tasty testes prepared by chefs competing for bragging rights. Top off the fun with a parade. visitvirginiacitynv.com Photo: Rahlves’ Banzi Tour
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MARCH 18-20 SHRINE CIRCUS Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls of all ages! Enjoy elephants, exotic animals, trapeze acts, motorcycles, clowns, face painting, lions, tigers and more. kerakshrine.com/circus
MARCH 18-20 HIGH DESERT STEAM CON 2016 Downtown Sparks Discover all things Steampunk to delight the senses and amuse the mind. The gathering includes vendors, tea dueling, Steampunk art, workshops, panels, Steam Nerf Arcade, The Time Traveler’s Ball and other activities. highdesertsteam.com/steam-con
APRIL 1-3 WINTERWONDERGRASS TAHOE Squaw Valley Music fans are in for a treat at this boutique winter music festival featuring lively bluegrass and acoustic roots music, craft beers, wine, spirits and food. The outdoor gathering focuses on sustainability, support of the arts and local nonprofits. winterwondergrasstahoe.com
APRIL 14-17 RENO UKULELE FESTIVAL Downtown Sparks The 8th annual festival is one of the largest events in the country that celebrates the growing popularity of the diminutive instrument. Ukulele performances, instruction, builders, vendors and fans will enjoy concerts, workshops and camaraderie. playuke.net
APRIL 27-MAY 1 RENO XTREME BARREL RACE Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center The strong tradition of superb rodeo events continues with this inaugural Reno competition. Marvel as top athletes and beautiful horses, representing over 10 states, compete in this fast-paced sporting event. The daily barrel racing and western trade show is free to the public. burns1876.com
Photo: WinterWonderGrass
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APRIL 28-30 RENO JAZZ FESTIVAL Reno Enjoy one of the world’s largest and most enduring celebrations of jazz, featuring concerts, competitions and a festival showcase. This year’s guest artists include acclaimed jazz guitarist Lage Lund, UNR acclaimed faculty ensemble The Collective, and the Grammy Award-winning band Snarky Puppy. unr.edu/rjf
APRIL 28-MAY 1 GENOA COWBOY FESTIVAL Genoa Enjoy talented cowboy poets, gifted musicians and craftsmen, horsemen, cooks, and folks who love and appreciate the Western lifestyle and the cowboy way. genoacowboyfestival.org
APRIL 29-MAY 1 CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVAL Reno A celebration of Hispanic heritage with popular Mexican bands and dancing horses, Latin music, dancers, amateur boxing, free face painting, games and prizes, carnival rides, food and a variety of vendors. cincodemayoreno.com
APRIL 30-MAY 1 VIRGINIA CITY GRAND PRIX Virginia City The world-famous outlaw motorcycle race starts in the historic mining town of Virginia City, then winds its way through the surrounding rocky hills in 4½ hours of rugged racing with speeds of up to 90 miles per hour. vcgp.com
MAY 6 NITRO CIRCUS Reno Featuring 30 of the world’s best extreme athletes in freestyle motocross, BMX and anything else you can imagine with wheels. Marvel at the world’s biggest and most dangerous stunts in a fully choreographed, action sports theatrical spectacular at the Reno Aces Ballpark. nitrocircus.com
MAY 6-8 RENO SCULPTURE FEST Downtown Reno Reno’s most effective and prolific community sculptors and builders create multiple interactive pieces that are showcased in downtown Reno. The temporary installation of these 6’ to 14’ tall works of art will coincide with events at surrounding venues. renosculpturefest.com
MAY 7 POLICE MEMORIAL PARADE & CAR SHOW Virginia City The parade honors officers that have given their lives in the line of duty and features beautifully restored police cruisers, fire engines and ambulances. It’s a day of education and a celebration of the rich history of law enforcement. visitvirginiacitynv.com
MAY 7-8 RENO RIVER FESTIVAL Downtown Reno This outdoor festival features free live music, a craft beer garden, food trucks, Yoga in the Park, vendors and shopping, free clinics, Adventure Park including a zip-line across the Truckee River, and a nationally recognized kayak competition. The event takes place in the heart of downtown Reno at the Truckee River Whitewater Park and is the highly anticipated kick-off to the special events season. renoriverfestival.com
MAY 13-15 SPRING WINGS BIRD FESTIVAL Fallon Experts from the Lahontan Audubon Society, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and Nevada Department of Wildlife lead birding and wildlife tours to hot spots in the Lahontan Valley wetlands surrounding Fallon. There are fun handson activities, raptors on display and keynote speakers. springwings.org
Photo: Busboom Photography
MAY 13-21 RENO CRAFT BEER WEEK Reno, Sparks, Carson City A celebration of fine ales and lagers produced and served by local breweries and brewpubs throughout the region. Beer dinners (and breakfasts), tap takeovers, tastings and education events. The festivities kick off with Backwash, Northern Nevada’s premier competition for home brewers. renocraftbeerweek.com
MAY 14-15 CHILI ON THE COMSTOCK Virginia City The event hosts over 30 of the best chili cookers in the West, featuring all your favorite and tantalizing chili flavors. Enjoy the Fireball Saloon Crawl and family-friendly activities. visitvirginiacitynv.com
MAY 19 AMGEN TOUR OF CALIFORNIA Lake Tahoe The Amgen women’s tour features a grueling competitive road cycling race around Lake Tahoe. amgentourofcalifornia.com
MAY 20-22 HOT AUGUST NIGHTS SPRING FEVER REVIVAL Downtown Reno In advance of the premier summertime classic car event, downtown Reno hums with the sound of powerful engines and dreamy sights as classic cars from bygone eras line the streets. Revel in Show-n-Shines and free live entertainment. hotaugustnights.net
JUNE 1-24 NEVADA HUMANITIES FESTIVAL AND CHAUTAUQUA Reno A celebration of the humanities featuring a conversation series, film screenings, education and entertainment. One of the nation’s longest running Chautauqua festivals, the main-stage performances bring historical figures to life in theatrical monologues, providing dramatic insights into people and events that have shaped our nation. The 2016 theme is “The Culture of Food.” nevadahumanities.org
Photo: Susan Mantle
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JUNE 3-4 RENO-TAHOE ODYSSEY RELAY RUN ADVENTURE Reno, Lake Tahoe and surrounding regions Relay teams compete on a 178-mile odyssey. Sound impossible? Not when there are hundreds of people cheering along the way. The course starts in downtown Reno and travels along the Truckee River, climbs up to beautiful Lake Tahoe, through the Northern Nevada high desert and back to Reno. renotahoeodyssey.com
JUNE 3-5 STREET VIBRATIONS SPRING RALLY Downtown Reno After a long winter, it’s time to liberate your Harley from hibernation and enjoy a weekend of motorcycle fun at one of the first rallies of the season! There will be live entertainment on six stages, bike games, poker runs, over 80 vendor booths, VIP motorcycle participant parties and more. Free to the public to enjoy the outdoor concerts and vendors. Registration open to all motorcycles. roadshowsreno.com
JUNE 3-5 SANDS EUROFEST 2016 Downtown Reno Slip on your Lederhosen or Dirndl and celebrate all things European at the 18th annual festival. Enjoy a wide variety of European cuisine and beer, free live entertainment, dancing and a multitude of craft booths. sandsregency.com
JUNE 5 AMERICA’S MOST BEAUTIFUL BIKE RIDE Stateline This 25th annual bike riding event is a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty of Lake Tahoe and is known for spectacular scenery as well as great food and support. Three ride distances accommodate riders of varying abilities, including the full 100-mile ride. bikethewest.com
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JUNE 10-12 OCTANE FEST Fallon A week of high-powered motorsports, including dirt track racing at Rattlesnake Raceway, top fuel drag racing at Top Gun Raceway, and a jamboree with monster trucks and freestyle motocross. octanefest.com
JUNE 11 THE MIGHTY TOUR DE NEZ Downtown Reno It’s been dubbed “the coolest bike race in America” and features amateurs and professionals in a one-mile criterium and one of the biggest hand-cycle fields in the country. There are also clunker bikes and kids races. Held in an historic neighborhood near downtown Reno, the question has always been: “Is the Tour de Nez a bike race that hosts a party or a party that hosts a bike race?” tourdenez.com
JUNE 11 THUNDERBIRD PADDLING FESTIVAL Incline Village SUP enthusiasts can compete, test new gear, browse the vendor expo or learn how to paddle in a unique and beautiful world-class paddling venue. Open to paddlers of all levels, there are 4 or 8-mile distance races. laketahoepaddling.com
JUNE 11 COUNTRY CROSSROADS Sparks This annual celebration of country music features live country entertainment, country music DJs, free line-dancing lessons and a cowboy-themed bar crawl. nuggetcasinoresort.com
JUNE 11-12 TOUGH MUDDER Northstar California Boasting some of the steepest, fiercest climbs and most rugged, rocky cross country trails in America, Mother Nature and the course design team collaborate to tumultuously test your threshold for pain with world-class obstacles. This teamoriented event places camaraderie over finisher rankings. toughmudder.com
Photo: Sharktooth Media
JUNE 16 PRCA XTREME BULLS Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center Sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, the tour showcases Pro Rodeo‘s top bull riders from the PRCA world standings riding some of the rankest bulls the world has to offer. Fans will enjoy high energy and nonstop action at this opening night of the Reno Rodeo. renorodeo.com
JUNE 16-25 RENO RODEO Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center It’s the “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West!,” with 10 nights of the best rodeo competition in the country and featuring over 750 professional athletes. Enjoy all of the fan favorites, including two world-class team roping events, professional bull riding, team roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing and bronc riding. The exciting Western action features an authentic cattle drive, parade, Double R Marketplace for Western shopping, food, carnival and Mutton Bustin’. renorodeo.com
JUNE 17-18 THE GREAT ELDORADO BBQ, BREWS AND BLUES FESTIVAL Downtown Reno Fire up the grills, tap the kegs and crank up the tunes for Reno’s best summer kick-off party! The festival is equal parts barbecue block party and microbrew tasting event that features more than 50 microbrews. Two stages feature nonstop rock and blues, and food booths offer savory cuisine. eldoradoreno.com
JUNE 17-26 ADVENTURE SPORTS WEEK North Lake Tahoe Challenge yourself with six competitive events that include trail running, mountain biking, triathlon, stand up paddleboarding and swimming. Free guided hikes, films, music and kids activities. adventuresportsweektahoe.com
JUNE 17-19 STEWART FATHER’S DAY POWWOW Carson City Bring the entire family to experience American Indian heritage, history and pride. The former Stewart Indian School (18901980) comes alive with over 100 dancers, Indian tacos and arts and crafts vendors. Admission is free. stewartindianschool.com
JUNE 18-19 U.S. OPEN OF WATERCROSS Sparks The Pro Watercross National Tour brings their coveted U.S. Open to the Sparks Marina for the high-speed thrill of motorsports on water. The top U.S. and International athletes will race handle barto-handle bar for the title of national champion, utilizing some of the most advanced equipment and technology to push their watercraft to speeds over 90 miles per hour. prowatercross.com
JUNE 20 BOB FEIST INVITATIONAL TEAM ROPING Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center BFI is the “richest one-day” team roping event and features the world’s top 100 teams competing for the coveted BFI championship. Part of the Reno Rodeo lineup, ropers from 23 states and Canada will participate. bobfeistinvitational.com
JUNE 23-26 ROCKABILLY RIOT Carson City Show off your ink and rock out “Rockabilly style” with traditional and custom built hot rods. See car art, drag racing, a pin-up contest, live bands, vendors, pin stripe artists and a tattoo expo. renorockabillyriot.com
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JUNE 27-JULY 3 THE BARRACUDA CHAMPIONSHIP, PGA TOUR GOLF TOURNAMENT Reno The 18th Annual Barracuda Championship is a player favorite and the only tournament featuring the exciting Modified Stableford format, encouraging the PGA TOUR professionals to “go for it.” Notable players such as Geoff Ogilvy, Padraig Harrington, John Daly, Retief Goosen and two-time winner J.J. Henry have competed. The stunning Montrêux Golf & Country Club provides a spectacular backdrop for PGA TOUR action, and there are fan enhancements for the entire family. barracudachampionship.com
JUNE 30-JULY 31 ARTOWN Reno July in Reno means one thing, Artown! This arts and cultural festival features over 500 multi-disciplinary events of live music, dance, theater, visual arts, workshops and art walks, the majority of which are free. The National Endowment for the Arts has called Artown one of the most comprehensive arts festivals in the country. renoisartown.com
JULY 2-4 BIGGEST LITTLE CITY WING FEST Downtown Reno Wing lovers will gather in downtown Reno to sample outstanding sauces and top notch wings. Competitors from award-winning local and regional restaurants will tantalize the palates of festival goers. It features free live entertainment, street fair, crafts and memorabilia vendors. silverlegacy.com
JULY 3 STAR SPANGLED SPARKS Sparks Victorian Square The region’s longest, most spectacular fireworks display is set off from the roof of the Nugget Casino Resort, while thousands of revelers celebrate Independence Day on Victorian Square below. The event features live entertainment for the whole family, a kids’ area and a wide array of food choices. nuggetcasinoresort.com
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JULY 4 FOURTH OF JULY Reno, Lake Tahoe and Virginia City Independence Day and fireworks go hand in hand, and Reno Tahoe USA will not disappoint the pyrotechnic fans. There are a multitude of celebrations around the region to choose from, with some offering parades, picnics and other daytime activities in addition to evening fireworks. visitrenotahoe.com
JULY 4 GENOA AMERICANA CELEBRATION Genoa A free, day-long celebration featuring live bluegrass and string band music, culminating with the Carson City Symphony performing a medley of Photo: Susan Mantle patriotic tunes. Vendors, fire department BBQ, food and beverage booths, children’s parade and games. genoaamericana.org
JULY 8-AUGUST 21 LAKE TAHOE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL Incline Village Imagine enjoying extraordinary entertainment while sitting under the stars on the shore of Sand Harbor State Park with Lake Tahoe in the background. The Festival’s 44th season offers two shows: The Comedy of Errors, Shakespeare’s double dose of laughter, and Forever Plaid, a pitch-perfect jukebox musical. Enjoy al fresco dining at one of the most scenic venues in the world. laketahoeshakespeare.com
JULY 14-17 WANDERLUST FESTIVAL Squaw Valley A celebration of mindful thinking and participatory gathering. The remarkable group of yoga teachers, musicians, speakers, artists and chefs retreat in an awe-inspiring resort with breathtaking scenery. wanderlust.com/festivals/squaw-valley
Photo: Roger Mastroianni
JULY 15-16 CIRCUS CIRCUS 24-HOUR MURAL MARATHON COMPETITION Reno Watch art in action in this unique competition. With just 24 hours at their disposal, seven talented artists will create wallsized murals on the exterior walls of the Circus Circus Hotel in downtown Reno. As the muralists’ artwork comes to life, there will be food and music for onlookers. circusreno.com
JULY 16 RENO BASQUE FESTIVAL Downtown Reno The Basque culture is a big part of Reno history and tradition. Celebrate Reno’s Basque heritage with traditional food, music and dancing, weight carrying contest, wood chopping demo, war cry contest, Basque cooking tips and games for children at Wingfield Park. renobasqueclub.org
JULY 19-24 AMERICAN CENTURY CELEBRITY GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP Stateline See your favorite sports and entertainment celebrities while enjoying magnificent views. The event is considered the nation’s most prestigious and richest celebrity golf tournament. tahoecelebritygolf.com
JULY 23 NORTHERN NEVADA PRIDE Downtown Reno A celebration of LGBT pride that includes a parade, entertainment, performance art, vendors and community services information. Held at Wingfield Park in downtown Reno. northernnevadapride.org
JULY 23-24 DONNER LAKE TRIATHLON AND TRUCKEE OPEN WATER SWIM Donner Lake The triathlon offers a sprint and an Olympic distance course to test your high-altitude athletic skills. Vendors, music, BBQ and the beautiful scenery at Donner Lake ensure a great time for the whole family. donnerlaketri.com
Photo: Marcello Rostagni
JULY 29-30 VIRGINIA CITY OFFICIAL HOT AUGUST NIGHTS KICKOFF EVENT Virginia City Take a step back in time to revel in the sights and sounds of yesteryear. This Comstock town comes alive with rumbling engines and nostalgic tunes to kick off the event’s 30th anniversary. Walk the historic streets to see an array of cars from days gone by and enjoy free, daily entertainment. hotaugustnights.net
JULY 29-AUGUST 14 LAKE TAHOE SUMMERFEST ORCHESTRA CONCERT SERIES Incline Village It’s the fifth season of orchestral and chamber music concerts. The world’s most renowned soloists and orchestral musicians drawn from the greatest orchestras of North America and beyond, gather to perform under the artistic direction of Conductor Joel Revzen. tahoesummerfest.org
JULY 30 COMPRESSION! ART AND FIRE Downtown Reno A unique celebration of the arts incorporating fire that is free to the public. Enjoy dance performances, skills workshops, visual and interactive art, pressurized flame devices, Playa art projects, Burning Man mutant vehicles, a fire sculpture garden, large-scale flame effects and art and vendor booths. controlledburnreno.com
AUGUST (TBA) FALLON FIGHTS: RURAL RUMBLE 2016 Fallon Watch professional boxing and mixed martial arts outdoors under the stars of the Churchill County Fairgrounds. Fallon Fights carries on the tradition of Nevada boxing in the Old West mining camps. fallonfights.com
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AUGUST 2-7 HOT AUGUST NIGHTS Reno and Sparks This premier classic car and nostalgia event celebrates its 30th anniversary. Classic automobiles and rock ‘n’ roll give enthusiasts a look into decades past. Show-n-Shines, nightly cruises, a classic car auction, swap meet, drag races & burnouts, and autocross are a few of the timeless activities. Free nightly music featuring the ‘50s, ‘60s and early ‘70s provide headline entertainment. hotaugustnights.net
AUGUST 4-6 HOT AUGUST NIGHTS AUCTION PRESENTED BY MOTORSPORT AUCTION GROUP Reno-Sparks Convention Center Making its debut at Hot August Nights, this collector car auction will feature street rods, classics, special interest cars and exotic vehicles. In addition to the indoor auction, a multitude of automotive-related vendors and exhibitors will be featured. motorsportauctiongroup.com
AUGUST 5-21 JAZZ & BEYOND: CARSON CITY MUSIC FESTIVAL Carson City The summer sizzles with more than 100 performers playing in over 60 events. Featuring Bluegrass, Blues, Latin and more. Most performances are free. jazzcarsoncity.com
AUGUST 12-13 LAKE TAHOE CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE Homewood The most prestigious wooden boat show in North America, presented by the Tahoe Yacht Club Foundation and held at Obexer’s Boat Company. Each year this show features more than 85 of the world’s finest wooden boats set against the backdrop of the deep, clear blue waters of Lake Tahoe. laketahoeconcours.com
AUGUST 12-14 TA-HOE NALU PADDLE FESTIVAL Kings Beach Experience the oldest and longest running stand up paddle race in the country, featuring a reception party, live concert, free paddle clinics and demos. Voted the “Best SUP Event” in the country by Outdoor Magazine. tahoenalu.com
Photo: Marcello Rostagni
Photo: H2omark.com
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AUGUST 13-14 LUCAS OIL OFF ROAD RACING SERIES Sparks The ultimate form of high-horsepower, extreme turns and door-to-door racing that is nationally televised. Top professional racers and crossover celebrity athletes like Jeremy McGrath, Brian Deegan, Ricky Johnson and Twitch have taken their turn behind the wheel. Appreciative fans enjoy the highflying action and unobstructed views from the grandstands at the Wild West Motorsports Park. lucasoiloffroadracing.com
AUGUST 14 RENO 10 MILER AND RELAY Downtown Reno Ten-mile races are growing in popularity; it’s the perfect distance for 5K and 10K runners to increase running distances. The course highlights many of Reno’s landmarks, including the University of Nevada, Reno. For a bigger challenge, sign up for the Reno Donner Double which includes a swim at Donner Lake the day before. race178.com/reno10miler
AUGUST 18-20 BACKROADS COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL Sparks Get your country fix at this inaugural music festival taking place at the acclaimed Wild West Motorsports Park, located just 10 minutes from Reno/Sparks. On Friday and Saturday, enjoy country music, a 300-foot slip n’ slide on the largest hill on the track, and corn hole. The venue opens for camping on Thursday. backroadscountryfest.com
AUGUST 19-21 RENO GREEK FESTIVAL Reno Be Greek for the weekend! For 40 years, authentic Greek cuisine has infused the neighborhood with scents of oregano, olive oil and lemon. Traditional Greek dance, music, desserts, imports and activities create a fun Mediterranean atmosphere in a family-friendly setting. renogreekfest.com
AUGUST 19-21 RENO KENNEL CLUB ALL BREED DOG SHOWS Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center A favorite stop among dog show competitors, canine lovers will appreciate the nearly 160 different breeds that compete in a variety of trials including Conformation, Obedience and Rally. renokennelclub.org
AUGUST 20 RENO GAY PRIDE FESTIVAL Downtown Reno The 20th annual festival honors the diversity of the LGBT community. Enjoy a full day of live performances, entertainment, shopping and food along the Truckee River at Wingfield Park. renogaypride.com
AUGUST 20 XTERRA LAKE TAHOE Incline Village Put your fitness abilities to the test with sprint, full or duathlon distances to choose from. Swim in famous Lake Tahoe, followed by an extreme mountain bike ride which skirts the mountainside overlooking the lake, finishingwith a scenic trail run. bigblueadventure.com
AUGUST 20-21 THE PACIFICA FESTIVAL Downtown Reno Celebrate Asian Pacific cultures through live music performances, traditional dance, ukulele performances, martial arts demonstrations, authentic ethnic foods and interactive cultural kid’s activities. Enjoy shopping at the Asian and Polynesian marketplace! Free to the public. pacificafestivalreno.org
Photo: David Calvert
AUGUST 24-28 RENO XTREME BARREL RACE Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center The finals of the Burns Events Xtreme Barrel Race season attracts top athletes and horses from over 10 states to compete in this fast-paced sporting event. Free to the public to watch the barrel racing and enjoy the western trade show which features saddles and tack, boots and hats, clothing, jewelry, furniture, décor and art. burns1876.com
AUGUST 26-27 CANFEST Reno The event kicks off with a beer pairings dinner and concert on Friday night. Saturday features a unique tasting festival dedicated to craft beers poured exclusively from cans. Microbreweries from around the U.S. representing 100 different brews converge for a night of delightful beer indulgence, live music, silent disco dance party, food, vendors and loads of fun! canfestbeer.com
AUGUST 26-28 RENO TAHOE MUSIC FESTIVAL Reno Enjoy live evening performances at the intimate and beautiful Hawkins Outdoor Amphitheater at Bartley Ranch. Tribute bands for Tim McGraw, Heart and Chicago will headline and food trucks will provide dining and beverage options. snpaa.org
AUGUST 28-SEPTEMBER 5 BURNING MAN Black Rock Desert Burning Man is a practice in community and an annual gathering of over 60,000 “Burners” who meet in the Black Rock Desert of northern Nevada to create art, exchange ideas and participate in the burning of the Man, a symbol whose meaning is as varied as the attendees themselves. Self-reliance and self-expression are encouraged in the temporary metropolis of Black Rock City. burningman.com
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AUGUST 31 – SEPTEMBER 5 BEST IN THE WEST NUGGET RIB COOK-OFF Sparks Victorian Square If you love ribs and barbecue, then head to Victorian Square for the country’s best rib competition, hosted by the Nugget Casino Resort. The 28th annual event transforms the Labor Day holiday into a six-day, must-attend culinary, music, craft and end-of-summer affair. Enjoy the finest ribs from across the nation! nuggetribcookoff.com
SEPTEMBER 2-4 NUMAGA INDIAN DAYS POWWOW Hungry Valley The Reno-Sparks Indian Colony hosts its nationally acclaimed Powwow. This free, family event features the best Native American dancers, singers and drummers in the country. Vendors sell traditional native foods and stunning handcrafted silverwork, beadwork, baskets and American Indian art. rsic.org
SEPTEMBER 2-4 USA BMX BLACKJACK NATIONALS Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center USA BMX is the sanctioning body for the sport of Bicycle Motocross Racing, and the prestigious National Series features competitors of all ages. Some of the top U.S. amateur BMX racers will test their skills in Reno. The event is free to spectators. usabmx.com
SEPTEMBER 9-11 THE GREAT RENO BALLOON RACE Reno The world’s largest FREE hot-air ballooning event is one of Reno’s most colorful and awe-inspiring events. Nearly 100 balloons, including special shapes, participate in this familyfriendly event. The trademark Dawn Patrol, Glow Show and the Super Glow Show provide an amazing spectacle as balloons glow and twinkle against the pre-dawn sky. Spectators enjoy a wide selection of food, merchandise and crafters, as well as uplifting music to complement this celebration of flight. renoballoon.com
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SEPTEMBER 9-11 INTERNATIONAL CAMEL & OSTRICH RACES Virginia City This hilarious annual tradition dates back to the 1950s and features jockeys maneuvering camels, ostriches and zebras around a track in this historic mining town. A hilarious racing spectacle that the entire family will enjoy. vccamelraces.com
SEPTEMBER 9-11 LAKE TAHOE AUTUMN FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL North Lake Tahoe Celebrate the 31st year of this prestigious event, recognized as the premier gourmet festival in Northern California. Celebrity chefs, hands-on cooking demonstrations, Farm to Tahoe dinner, winemaker luncheons and dinners, food and wine seminars, mixology and the Sunday Culinary Competition and Grand Tasting. tahoefoodandwine.com
SEPTEMBER 10 TRACTORS & TRUFFLES Fallon A farm-to-plate gourmet dinner and arts event featuring renowned chefs from around the country, preparing a fivecourse meal from locally grown ingredients. Following the dinner is a performance in the Barkley Theater. There are farm tours and cooking demonstrations during the day. tractorsandtruffles.com
SEPTEMBER 11 TOUR DE TAHOE BIKE BIG BLUE Stateline An opportunity to ride 72 miles of Lake Tahoe’s spectacular shoreline, including an 800-foot climb overlooking scenic Emerald Bay. Cyclists enjoy great food and participant support stations. bikethewest.com
SEPTEMBER 14-18 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AIR RACES Reno The longest running air race and the only closed-course pylon race event in the world. Six different classes of race planes battle just 50-feet from the ground, with the Unlimited and Jet classes reaching speeds over 500 mph! Besides the on-yourfeet action of the races, spectators have close-up access to racing aircraft, pilots and crews in the “pits.” There’s a worldclass air show, military display and demonstrations, aircraft display and great concessions. Experience the action of the “World’s Fastest Motorsport”! airrace.org
SEPTEMBER 18 EDIBLE PEDAL 100 Carson City and Lake Tahoe A bike ride featuring routes for all levels of riders, including 10, 50 and 100-mile courses; all starting in scenic Washoe Valley. Outstanding locally-sourced food at rest stops and a post-ride barbecue make for a memorable and delicious event. ediblepedal100.org
SEPTEMBER 19-OCTOBER 1 NRCHA SNAFFLE BIT FUTURITY Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center A modern showcase for the time-honored vaquero horse training methods that date back to the early American West. This family-friendly event will appeal to horse enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys adrenaline-charged sports. Three-year-old equine athletes are tested in herd work, rein work and fence work as riders chase a $1.1 million purse. Shoppers will enjoy the enormous “Best of the West” trade show and the Snaffle Bit Futurity horse sales. nrcha.com/snaffle-bit-futurity
SEPTEMBER 21-25 STREET VIBRATIONS FALL RALLY Downtown Reno Enjoy HOG heaven at this celebration of music, metal and motorcycles. It’s the last great motorcycle rally of the season and this event takes it to a new level with live entertainment on six outdoor stages, over 250 vendors, bike scavenger hunts and poker runs, fireworks display in downtown Reno, major concerts, America’s Finest Custom Bike Builder’s Expo and a tattoo expo for body art extraordinaire. Free to the public to enjoy the outdoor concerts and vendors. Registration open to all motorcycles. roadshowsreno.com
SEPTEMBER 24-25 SUPERCRAWL/SILVER STATE ROCK CRAWLING CHAMPIONSHIP Sparks Last year’s inaugural Silver State Rock Crawling Championship was North America’s biggest rock crawling competition in a decade. In addition to the Championship, this year’s event will feature top pro drivers competing for the SuperCrawl World Championship. silverstate.rocks
SEPTEMBER 24-25 GENOA CANDY DANCE Genoa Relish in the small-town spirit of this ultimate candy and craft festival that features more than 300 exhibitors and 3,000 pounds of Genoa’s fabulous homemade candy. genoanevada.org
SEPTEMBER 30-OCTOBER 2 WORLD COWBOY FAST DRAW CHAMPIONSHIP Fallon Cowboy and fast draw enthusiasts worldwide compete with single action, Western-style revolvers to determine who is “The Fastest Gun Alive.” Competitors dress in Old West clothing and shoot wax bullets with speeds calculated within fractions of a second. cowboyfastdraw.com
Photo: Harry Wagner
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OCTOBER 1 CROSSRENO CYCLOCROSS RACE AND FESTIVAL Reno It’s a Race. It’s a Festival. It’s a Party. CrossReno is a USA Cycling Sanctioned Cyclocross race with categories for professionals, masters, amateurs, juniors and kids. It’s a festival with live music, food trucks, craft beer, and family-friendly activities, followed by a raging after-party. cxreno.com
OCTOBER 1-2 RENO CELTIC CELEBRATION Reno Delight in Celtic activities and performances, including pipe bands, Scottish and Irish dancers, clan tents, historical reenactments, games, Celtic critters, kids’ games, food and drink, and Celtic merchandise. renoceltic.org
OCTOBER 1-2 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OUTHOUSE RACES Virginia City This hilarious Comstock tradition dates back to a time when outdoor plumbing was outlawed and angry residents took their outhouses to the streets in protest. Today, teams of costumed outhouse racers are pitted against each other in an all-out potty race. visitvirginiacitynv.com
OCTOBER 6-9 LAKE TAHOE MARATHON & RUN TAHOE EVENTS Lake Tahoe Competitors can enjoy more than 20 events in and around beautiful Lake Tahoe, including running, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, family runs and walks. There are three marathons and a 72-mile run ultra-marathon around the lake for the hearty. laketahoemarathon.com
OCTOBER 8 REDRUN Virginia City The historic mining town transforms into a zombie apocalypse in this obstacle run. Participants run for their lives while zombies attempt to capture their flags, and the living insane douse them with red water and powder. It features some of the most famously chilling landmarks and was named in a Top 10 list of zombie events. redrunvc.com
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OCTOBER 8-9 ELDORADO GREAT ITALIAN FESTIVAL Downtown Reno The streets of downtown Reno are transformed into Little Italy for a delicious, fun-filled weekend. The festival features a grape stomp, sauce cookers competition, wine walk, Italian farmers’ market, kids’ gelato eating contest, Italian buffet, craft and food vendors, and free live entertainment. eldoradoreno.com
OCTOBER 10-16 RENO BITES RESTAURANT WEEK Reno Explore Reno’s vibrant culinary scene during a week of prix fixe menus, specialty items and activities. Edge-pushing events and menus will transpire in celebration of the 5th anniversary, culminating with an exhilarating Chef Showdown in which Reno’s best chefs compete for prizes and bragging rights. renobitesweek.com
OCTOBER 15-22 WRANGLER/PROFESSIONAL’S CHOICE ACTRA NATIONAL FINALS Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center Members of the American Cowboys Team Roping Association compete at the National Finals. Contestants range in age from teenagers to folks in their 80s, and each has a dream of becoming a national champion. Enjoy Western shopping, featuring clothing, jewelry, furniture, décor and art. Free to spectators. actra.org
OCTOBER 21-22 ULTRA4 NITTO NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP Sparks Ultra4 trucks are a combination of high-speed desert race vehicles and 4WD rock crawlers; the same vehicles that compete at King of the Hammers! The challenging course includes extreme rock obstacles with race teams holding nothing back for the season finale. Enjoy full course views from the comfort of grandstand seating at the Wild West Motorsports Park. ultra4racing.com
OCTOBER 23 PUMPKINPALOOZA Sparks Victorian Square It’s hometown fun at this celebration of all things pumpkin, named a “Top 10 Event” by Food Network Magazine in 2014. Featuring live music, pumpkin derby, pumpkin seed spitting and pie-eating contests, children’s costume parade and carnival games, and more. pumpkinpalooza.org
OCTOBER 29 78TH ANNUAL NEVADA DAY PARADE Carson City The huge procession is the largest formal statehood celebration in the nation and kicks off with a hot-air balloon launch and military flyover, followed by about 200 parade entries, including floats, marching bands and lots of entertainment. nevadaday.com
NOVEMBER 4-7 OFF BEAT ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL Downtown Reno An event showcasing northern Nevada’s growing music, art and culinary renaissance. Activities include an art walk, art exhibits, dining discounts, headliner performances and music showcases held in locations throughout Midtown, Downtown and the 4th Street Corridor. offbeatfest.com
NOVEMBER 11 VETERANS DAY PARADE Downtown Reno The parade marches through the heart of downtown Reno and honors those who have sacrificed to protect our country. ROTC units, marching bands and flag-waving citizens turn out in force. reno.gov
NOVEMBER 25-27 CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS Sparks Browse more than 100 craft and gift booths at this annual marketplace, featuring local and regional vendors. Enjoy cooking, cocktail and floral arranging demonstrations, visits with Santa, and kids’ activities. nuggetcasinoresort.com
Photo: Sabrina Hallgren
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DECEMBER 3 CITY OF SPARKS HOMETOWNE CHRISTMAS PARADE Downtown Sparks It’s a weekend of traditional activities and a great way to kick off the holiday season at festively decorated Victorian Avenue. Friday evening has a tree lighting ceremony with free entertainment; Saturday’s activities include the annual Christmas parade with floats, marching bands, animal groups and Santa. cityofsparks.us/christmasparade
DECEMBER 9-10 39 NORTH POLE VILLAGE Downtown Sparks Victorian Square becomes a sparkling winter wonderland. Stroll through holiday lights and enjoy visits with Santa, kids’ activities and more. nuggetcasinoresort.com
DECEMBER 26-31 NEVADA CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL, PRESENTED BY RENO CHAMBER ORCHESTRA Reno Enjoy 11 unique concerts showcasing world-class musicians and the very best in classical music. Artists include leading players from the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra and the Berlin Philharmonic. Held in two intimate locations that enhance your connection to the music, the festival culminates with a New Year’s Eve celebration. renochamberorchestra.org
Food & Drink FOOD TRUCKS Who says you need four walls to enjoy delicious artisan food? Food trucks are taking gourmet to the parks and streets of Reno and Sparks, creating seasonal outdoor food courts. Some offer live entertainment, beverage options, kids’ activities, local crafters and even movies! RENO STREET FOOD Every Friday evening, May 20-October 7 Idlewild Park facebook.com/renostreetfood renostreetfood.com
FEED THE CAMEL Every Wednesday evening, June-August Riverwalk District - McKinley Arts & Culture Center facebook.com/pages/Feed-The-Camel/256832417824677
FARMERS MARKETS An opportunity to interact with farmers and vendors, and shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, crafts, yard art, clothing, specialty foods, and pet products. Some markets even have cooking demonstrations! Locations throughout the area, from summer to early fall, including the only covered outdoor market in Northern Nevada at the Sands Regency Hotel & Casino and 39 North Marketplace on Victorian Avenue in downtown Sparks. shirleysfarmersmarkets.com, 39northdowntown.com/39-north-marketplace RENO RIVERWALK DISTRICT There are a variety of unique options in dining, entertainment, shopping and scenic beauty along the Truckee River and neighboring streets in downtown Reno. A wonderful way to discover this electric area is by participating in a wine walk or food tour. renoriver.org
WINE WALK Every 3rd Saturday of the month, year-round
DINE THE DISTRICT FOOD TOUR May 7 and October 1
RENO BEER CRAWL Downtown Reno If you’re in Reno on the fourth Saturday of the month, you will inevitably, and luckily, enter the wacky world of the Reno Beer Crawl. Purchase a commemorative cup to receive drink specials at a variety of locations. renobeercrawl.com
Pub Crawls A friendly rendezvous at any of Reno Tahoe’s local watering holes is always a good time, but when you throw outlandish costumes into the mix, a good time becomes an unforgettable one. visitrenotahoe.com
JANUARY 30 MARDI CRAWL crawlreno.com
MARCH 12 RENO LEPRECHAUN CRAWL crawlreno.com
APRIL 30 PAJAMA CRAWL crawlreno.com MAY 21 EPIC SCI-FI CRAWL crawlreno.com JUNE 11 COWBOY CRAWL cowboycrawl.com JULY 16 SUPERHERO CRAWL superherocrawl.com AUGUST 13 RENO PIRATE CRAWL crawlreno.com
OCTOBER 22 RENO ZOMBIE CRAWL & THRILLER UNDER THE ARCH crawlreno.com
NOVEMBER 19 STEAMPUNK TAVERN STROLL crawlreno.com
DECEMBER 10 RENO SANTA PUB CRAWL renosantacrawl.com
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Sporting Events The crack of the bat. The smell of the grass. A spike of the ball. Dressing up in crazy costumes to run a themed 5K. Whatever you’re into, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more unexpected take on the sporting life than in Reno Tahoe USA.
JANUARY 15-16 UCS SPIRIT NATIONAL POLE VAULT SUMMIT polevaultsummit.com
JANUARY 30 – FEBRUARY 14 RENO-TAHOE SENIOR WINTER GAMES reno.gov/seniorgames
MARCH 7 – JULY 10 USBC OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS bowl.com/openchamp
MARCH 12-13 DUBLIN DIRTY - IRISH SOFTBALL EVENT dublindirty.com MARCH 13 LEPRECHAUN RACE race178.com/leprechaunrace
MARCH 26 NO BRAINER ALL-ZOMBIE FUN RUN crawlreno.com
APRIL 8-10 RENO WORLD OF WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIPS worldofwrestling-roller.com
APRIL 16-18 & APRIL 22-24 NCVA FAR WESTERN NATIONAL QUALIFIER ncva.com/girls/tournaments/far-western-national-qualifier
MAY 27 – JUNE 5 SENIOR SOFTBALL-USA 2016 ROCK ‘N RENO CHALLENGE CUP seniorsoftball.com
MAY 28-30 JAM ON IT MEMORIAL DAY TOURNAMENT jamonit.org
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JUNE 11 ARCH RIVALS SUPERHERO RUN crawlreno.com JULY 8-10 BONEYARDBLAST X – SOFTBALL EVENT boneyardblast.com
JULY 18-23 TRIPLE CROWN SPORTS 14U OPEN WESTERN WORLD SERIES triplecrownsports.com
AUGUST 12-28 STORM OPEN FESTIVAL OF BOWLING TOURNAMENT nationalmixed.com AUGUST 13-27 RENO-TAHOE SENIOR SUMMER GAMES reno.gov/seniorgames SEPTEMBER 11 JOURNAL JOG race178.com/journaljog/ OCTOBER 6-NOVEMBER 6 STORM OPEN FESTIVAL OF BOWLING TOURNAMENT nationalmixed.com
OCTOBER 15-16 & OCTOBER 22-23 BLOOD-N-GUTS SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT thisandthatsoftball.com
NOVEMBER 13 RUN WITH THE GIRLS 5K race178.com/girlsrun/
NOVEMBER 24 THE SCHEELS TURKEY TROT cityofsparks.us/visiting/special-events/scheels-turkey-trot
DECEMBER 4-17 PBA WORLD SERIES OF BOWLING pba.com/tournaments
2017 Events MAY 2017 RENO RIVER FESTIVAL
JUNE 2-4, 2017 STREET VIBRATIONS SPRING RALLY
JUNE 15-24, 2017 RENO RODEO
JULY 1-31, 2017 ARTOWN
JULY/AUGUST 2017 LAKE TAHOE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
AUGUST 2017 BARRACUDA CHAMPIONSHIP
AUGUST 8-12, 2017 HOT AUGUST NIGHTS
AUGUST 27-SEPTEMBER 4, 2017 BURNING MAN
89
To Sacramento, San Francisco 80
AUGUST 30-SEPTEMBER 4, 2017 BEST IN THE WEST NUGGET RIB COOK-OFF
89
SEPTEMBER 8-10, 2017 THE GREAT RENO BALLOON RACE Squaw Valley
SEPTEMBER 13-17, 2017 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AIR RACES
SEPTEMBER 20-24, 2017
Alpine Meadows
Tahoe City
Granlibakken
STREET VIBRATIONS FALL RALLY Homewood
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Disclaimer: Information contained in this brochure is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and is subject to change.
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Sacramento
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Las Vegas 395
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CALIFORNIA NEVADA
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Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe
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To Fallon, Elko, Salt Lake City
Incline Village
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95A
395 Yerington
Illustrations by Kimber Moore Design
TM
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Photo: Cornelius Photography 1/2016 50M