RENO TAHOE USA
EVENTS & FESTIVALS 2015
RENO RODEO
ARTOWN
LAKE TAHOE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
BARRACUDA CHAMPIONSHIP
HOT AUGUST NIGHTS
BARRETT-JACKSON AUCTION
BURNING MAN
BEST IN THE WEST NUGGET RIB COOK-OFF
THE GREAT RENO BALLOON RACE
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AIR RACES
TM
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Dynamic Dozen 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 twelve celebrated 2015 events that make our destination notorious for guaranteeing a great time. Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg; browse the entire brochure and discover your reason to plan a trip.
JUNE 18-27, RENO RODEO JULY 1-AUGUST 1, ARTOWN JULY 10-AUGUST 23, LAKE TAHOE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL AUGUST 3-9, BARRACUDA CHAMPIONSHIP PGA TOUR GOLF TOURNAMENT
AUGUST 4-9, HOT AUGUST NIGHTS AUGUST 6-8, HOT AUGUST NIGHTS AUCTION PRESENTED BY BARRETT-JACKSON
AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 7, BURNING MAN SEPTEMBER 2-7, BEST IN THE WEST NUGGET RIB COOK-OFF SEPTEMBER 11-13, THE GREAT RENO BALLOON RACE SEPTEMBER 16-20, NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AIR RACES SEPTEMBER 23-27, STREET VIBRATIONS FALL RALLY OCTOBER 2-4, BLUE GENES JAM
STREET VIBRATIONS FALL RALLY
BLUE GENES JAM
Events & Festivals JANUARY 7-11 RENO LATIN DANCE FEST & SHOWCASE 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, Cumbia, and more. renolatindancefest.com
JANUARY 8-10 THE SHEEP SHOW Reno-Sparks Convention Center Wild Sheep Foundation is the largest conservation and mountain hunting convention, and features vendors, entertainers and educational events, as well as $5 million in online, silent and live auctions. The Expo is open to the public and features hundreds of exhibitors. wildsheepfoundation.org
JANUARY 28-FEBRUARY 2 CARVE TAHOE Northstar California Watch some of the best snow sculptors in the world compete at this international snow sculpting competition. Teams transform 25-ton blocks of pure, white Tahoe snow into breathtaking masterpieces right before your eyes. carvetahoe.com
FEBRUARY - MARCH RAHLVES’ BANZAI TOUR Lake Tahoe Big mountain freeride meets ski/boarder-cross event in head-to-head race action. The three-stop tour has competitions at Alpine Meadows (Feb 21-22), Kirkwood (Mar 7-8) and the Super Final at Sugar Bowl (Mar 14-15). rahlvesbanzai.com
FEBRUARY 13 BREW HAHA Sparks Victorian Square Enjoy all-you-can-drink responsibly at the 20th annual event. Sample more than 170 types of beer from local and regional breweries while enjoying great live music. janugget.com
FEBRUARY 19-22 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 27-MARCH 8 NORTH LAKE TAHOE SNOWFEST North Lake Tahoe It’s the largest winter carnival west of the Mississippi; featuring a torchlight parade, laser show and fireworks, polar bear swim, parades, dog pull, Wacky Human bowling, and the Bump & Jump Hanger Party. tahoesnowfestival.com
MARCH 7-9 MCKINNEY CUP Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe Some the fastest Far West Masters skiers face off in Slalom and Giant Slalom courses on the Slide Bowl of Mt. Rose. skirose.com
MARCH 13-15 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
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MARCH 14 ROCKY MOUNTAIN OYSTER FRY AND ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE Virginia City Often referred to as “The Testicle Festival,” cooks compete for appealing ways of preparing these delightful delicacies. Top off the fun with the St. Patrick’s Day parade. visitvirginiacitynv.com
MARCH 15 LEPRECHAUN RACE Reno A new twist to celebrating St. Paddy’s Day! Race a leprechaun in this festive 5K run and walk that encompasses two of Reno’s most vibrant districts. race178.com/leprechaunrace
MARCH 20-22 WINTERWONDERGRASS Squaw Valley Bluegrass fans are in for a treat at this boutique winter music and craft beer festival featuring more than 15 bands and 12 California breweries. It’s a winter wonderland for music lovers. winterwondergrasstahoe.com
APRIL 18-19 BIGGEST LITTLE STEAMPUNK EXPO Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center Relish in all things Steampunk, including costumes, art, art cars, fashion show, vendors, live music, dance lessons, workshops, and lectures. highdesertsteam.org
APRIL 18-25 RENO CRAFT BEER WEEK Reno A celebration of fine ales and lagers produced and served by local breweries and brewpubs throughout Reno. Beer dinners, tap takeovers, tastings, and beer education events, culminating with Backwash, Northern Nevada’s premier competition for home brewers. renocraftbeerweek.com
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APRIL 23-25 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 saxophonist and Grammy nominee, Donny McCaslin and all-star, award-winning jazz ensemble, SF Jazz Collective. unr.edu/rjf
APRIL 25-26 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
APRIL 26-MAY 5 NCHA WESTERN NATIONALS Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center Cutting horses are trained to separate individual animals from a cattle herd, and this championship features the best cutting horses and riders from the West. In addition to the family-friendly performances, there are Western specialty vendors. nchacutting.com
APRIL 30-MAY 2 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 30-MAY 3 RENO UKULELE FESTIVAL Sparks The 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
MAY 1-3 CINCO DE MAYO FESTIVAL Reno A celebration of Hispanic heritage, featuring popular Mexican bands, Latin musicians, Mexican dancing horse performances, amateur boxing, a variety of vendors, delicious Mexican cuisine, carnival rides, and face painting, games, and prizes for the kids. cincodemayoreno.com
MAY 2-3 CHILI ON THE COMSTOCK Virginia City The event hosts more than 30 of the best chili cookers in the West, featuring tantalizing chili favors. Enjoy the Fireball Crawl and family-friendly activities. visitvirginiacitynv.com
MAY 8-9 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 hands-on activities, raptors on display and keynote speakers. springwings.org
MAY 9 NEVADA STATE 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 9-10 RENO RIVER FESTIVAL Downtown Reno It’s one of the premier outdoor adventure events and takes place in the heart of downtown Reno at the Truckee River Whitewater Park. Paddle sports, including a nationally recognized kayaking competition, Yoga in the Park, live entertainment, vendors, and children’s activities make this event a highly anticipated kick-off to the special events season. renoriverfestival.com
MAY 29-30 HOT AUGUST NIGHTS PRESENTS SPRING FEVER REVIVAL Downtown Reno “Twist and Shout” your way back to the ‘60s and ‘70s for a weekend of classic cars and rock ‘n’ roll music in downtown Reno. Enjoy food and beverage booths, vendors, live entertainment, classic car show ‘n’ shine and more! hotaugustnights.net
MAY 29-30 RENO-TAHOE ODYSSEY RELAY RUN ADVENTURE Reno and Lake Tahoe Twelve-person relay teams compete on a 178-mile odyssey that includes Reno, Truckee, Lake Tahoe, Carson City and Virginia City. The course climbs over 2800 feet as runners pass rivers, streams and beautiful Lake Tahoe. Sound impossible? Not when there are hundreds of people cheering along the way! Two shorter relay options are also available: Capital Odyssey (62 miles) and the Comstock Odyssey (30 miles). renotahoeodyssey.com
JUNE 4-7 RENO TAHOE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Reno, Sparks, North Lake Tahoe An international film festival and marketplace celebrating independent film and screenwriters from across the world. Three screening locations are planned, as well as guest speakers, entertainment and tech expo, parties, and filmmaker Q&A after the screenings. rtiff.org
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JUNE 5-7 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! There will be live entertainment, bike games, competition ride-in shows, poker runs and walks, vendor booths, VIP motorcycle participant parties and more. roadshowsreno.com
JUNE 5-7 BON VIVANT RENO MUSIC FESTIVAL Reno This inaugural, innovative, upscale music festival will showcase outstanding live music on three stages, featuring rock, American Roots, and Rhythm and Blues. Local gourmet food, craft beer, wine, and art will round out this distinctive, outdoor event at Rancho San Rafael Park. bonvivantmusicfestival.com
JUNE 5-7 SANDS EUROFEST 2015 Downtown Reno Slip on your Lederhosen or Dirndl and celebrate all things European at the 17th annual festival. Enjoy a wide variety of European cuisine and beer, free live entertainment, dancing and a multitude of craft booths. sandsregency.com
JUNE 7 AMERICA’S MOST BEAUTIFUL BIKE RIDE Stateline A wonderful way to enjoy the beauty of Lake Tahoe is to take in a bike riding event that 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
JUNE 12-14 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
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JUNE 12-14 COUNTRY CROSSROADS Sparks This annual celebration of country music features wellknown country entertainers, country music DJs, free line dancing lessons, country karaoke contests and a cowboythemed bar crawl. janugget.com
JUNE 13-14 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. toughmudder.com/events/2015-tahoe
JUNE 18 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 18-27 RENO RODEO Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center It’s the “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West!” with ten 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 19-20 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 19-21 STEWART FATHER’S DAY POWWOW Carson City Bring the entire family to experience American Indian heritage, history and pride. The former Stewart Indian School will come alive with over 100 native artisans and dancers, arts and crafts vendors and tasty Indian tacos. Admission is free. stewartindianschool.com
JUNE 19-26 NEVADA HUMANITIES CHAUTAUQUA Reno One of the longest running Chautauqua festivals in the nation, it is a living history program where costumed performers bring historical figures to life in theatrical monologues, providing dramatic insights into the people and events that have shaped our nation. nevadahumanities.org
JUNE 19-28 ADVENTURE SPORTS WEEK North Lake Tahoe For those who appreciate clean air, clear water, a scenic single track and an elevated heart rate. Challenge yourself with six competitive events that include trail running, mountain biking, triathlon, stand up paddle boarding and swimming. adventuresportsweektahoe.com
JUNE 20-21 U.S. OPEN OF WATERCROSS Sparks The Pro Watercross 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 bar-to-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 22 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 24-28 USA CYCLING AMATEUR ROAD CHAMPIONSHIPS North Lake Tahoe The nation’s top amateur cyclists will compete for a Starsand-Stripes jersey in the road race, time trial and criterium. usacycling.org/2015/amateur-road-para-nationals
JUNE 25-28 RENO ROCKABILLY RIOT Downtown Reno Show off your ink and rock out “Rockabilly style” with traditional and custom built hot rods. New for 2015 is the addition of muscle cars. See car art, drag racing, pin-up contest, live bands, vendors, pin stripe artists, tattoo artists and a burlesque show. renorockabillyriot.com
Susan Mantle
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JULY 1-AUGUST 1 ARTOWN Reno Reno is Artown! Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this festival of the arts is diverse, unique, powerful, and innovative. Featuring over 500 multi-disciplinary events of live music, dance, theater, visual arts, workshops, multicultural events, and tours, 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 1-4 RED WHITE AND TAHOE BLUE Incline Village and Crystal Bay Voted by MSNTravel.com and AOL.com as one of the “Top Ten 4th of July Festivals in America,� this annual celebration offers over 35 good, old-fashioned family fun activities for all ages, including the largest fireworks display at Lake Tahoe. redwhitetahoeblue.org
JULY 3-5 BIGGEST LITTLE CITY WING FEST 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. Free live entertainment, street fair, crafts and memorabilia vendors. silverlegacy.com
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
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JULY 4 STAR SPANGLED SPARKS Sparks Victorian Square The region’s longest, most spectacular fireworks display is set off from the roof of JA Nugget, while thousands of revelers celebrate the 4th of July on Victorian Square below. The event features live entertainment for the whole family, a kid’s area and a wide array of food choices. janugget.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 patriotic tunes. Vendors, fire department BBQ, food and beverage booths, children’s parade and games. genoaamericana.org
JULY 5-11 REGION III ARABIAN CHAMPIONSHIP HORSE SHOW Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center Arabian and half Arabian horses compete in the variety of classes which include Western Pleasure, Hunter Pleasure, English Pleasure, Ladies Side Saddle, the popular Arabian Costume class and many more. Seven action-packed days are free for the public to enjoy these beautiful animals compete. arabianhorses3.org
JULY 10-11 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 wall-sized 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
Neil Lockhart
JULY 10-AUGUST 23 LAKE TAHOE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL Incline Village Imagine enjoying extraordinary entertainment while sitting under the stars on a white sand beach with Lake Tahoe in the background. Two theater offerings: Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, the greatest love story ever told, and the world’s longest running musical, The Fantasticks. Enjoy gourmet dining and wine tastings at one of the most scenic venues in the world. laketahoeshakespeare.com
JULY 14-19 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 16-19 WANDERLUST FESTIVAL Squaw Valley Featuring the world’s leading yoga teachers, top tier musicians, and top chefs, concert goers can enjoy yoga, incredible music, food, and breathtaking scenery. squaw.wanderlustfestival.com
JULY 18 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 25 COMPRESSION! ART AND FIRE Reno A unique celebration of the arts incorporating fire. Enjoy dance performances, skills workshops, visual and interactive art, pressurized flame devices, Playa art projects, Burning Man mutant vehicles, fire sculpture garden, large-scale flame effects, art and vendor booths. controlledburnreno.com
JULY 25 NORTHERN NEVADA PRIDE Downtown Reno A celebration of GLBT pride that includes a parade, entertainment, performance art, vendors and community services information. Held at Wingfield Park in downtown Reno. northernnevadapride.org
JULY 25-26 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
JULY 31-AUGUST 16 LAKE TAHOE SUMMERFEST ORCHESTRA CONCERT SERIES Incline Village Uplift your spirits through the magic of orchestra music in the pristine setting of beautiful Lake Tahoe. An intimate concert experience that features renowned soloists from the world’s stages and the exceptional musicians of the SummerFest Orchestra, led by Maestro Joel Revzen. tahoesummerfest.org
AUGUST 3-9 BARRACUDA CHAMPIONSHIP, PGA TOUR GOLF TOURNAMENT Reno The 17th 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, John Daly, Camilo Villegas, Padraig Harrington and Davis Love III 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
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AUGUST 4-9 HOT AUGUST NIGHTS Reno and Sparks It’s the largest classic car and nostalgia event in the country. Restored hot rods and sexy muscle cars give enthusiasts a firsthand experience of popular decades of the past. Shown-shines, ride and drives, nightly cruises, demolition derbies, a prom, drag races and a sock hop are a few of the “cool” activities featured. Music of the best and most memorable performers from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s provide headline entertainment. hotaugustnights.net
AUGUST 6-8 HOT AUGUST NIGHTS AUCTION PRESENTED BY BARRETT-JACKSON Reno-Sparks Convention Center The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™ returns to Reno to join the world’s premiere classic car and nostalgia festival. Not only will buyers be able to bid on and purchase from Barrett-Jackson’s famous selection of collector cars, but they can take them right from the auction block to the streets of Reno-Sparks to participate in one of Hot August Nights’ famous cruises or show-n-shines. barrett-jackson.com/reno-tahoe/
AUGUST 7-8 LAKE TAHOE CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE WOODEN BOAT SHOW Homewood The most prestigious wooden boat show in North America, presented by the Tahoe Yacht Club Foundation and held at Obexer’s Boat Company. Over 60 antique and classic boat entries from around the world, including meticulously restored post-WWII racers and runabouts, utility boats, and flashy Rivas. laketahoeconcours.com
AUGUST 7-23 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
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AUGUST 14 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, finishing with a scenic trail run. bigblueadventure.com
AUGUST 14-16 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. tahoenalu.com
AUGUST 15 RENO GAY PRIDE FESTIVAL Downtown Reno The 19th annual festival honors the diversity of the GLBT community. Enjoy a full day of live performances, entertainment, shopping and food along the Truckee River at Wingfield Park. renogaypride.com
AUGUST 16 RENO 10 MILER AND RELAY Reno Ten-mile races are becoming the hottest new distance and this run has a spectacular course that highlights many of the landmarks, scenic landscapes and historical neighborhoods of Reno. Run the entire 10 miles or compete as a relay team. 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 20-23 RENO TAHOE MUSIC FESTIVAL Reno Enjoy four live evening performances at the intimate and beautiful Hawkins Amphitheater at Bartley Ranch. A different genre is performed each night, including rock, country, jazz, and pop. snpaa.org
AUGUST 21-23 RENO GREEK FESTIVAL Reno Be Greek for a day! For 40 years, authentic Greek cuisine has infused the neighborhood with scents of oregano, olive oil, and lemon. Traditional Greek dance, music, desserts and imports create a fun Mediterranean atmosphere in a familyfriendly setting. renogreekfest.com
AUGUST 22 CANFEST Reno A unique tasting festival dedicated to craft beers poured exclusively from cans. More than 40 breweries from around the world, representing 100-120 different brews, converge for a night of delightful beer indulgence. Sanctioned by the Beer Judged Certification Program, the event features live music, entertainment, food, vendors, and loads of fun! canfestbeer.com
AUGUST 22 FALLON FIGHTS: RURAL RUMBLE ‘15 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
AUGUST 22-23 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 high-flying action and unobstructed views from the grandstands at the Wild West Motorsports Park. lucasoiloffroadracing.com
AUGUST 26-30 RENO REUNION 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 trade show is free to the public. burns1876.com
AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 7 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
SEPTEMBER 2-7 BEST IN THE WEST NUGGET RIB COOK-OFF Sparks Victorian Square If you love ribs and barbecue, then attend the country’s best rib competition hosted by JA Nugget. This 27th annual event transforms the Labor Day holiday into a must-attend culinary, music, craft and end-of-summer family affair. Enjoy the finest ribs from across the nation at Sparks Victorian Square! nuggetribcookoff.com
SEPTEMBER 4-6 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
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SEPTEMBER 11-13 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
SEPTEMBER 11-13 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 while thousands of spectators cheer them on. A hilarious spectacle that the entire family will enjoy. visitvirginiacitynv.com
SEPTEMBER 11-13 LAKE TAHOE AUTUMN FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Northstar California Celebrate the 30th 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
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SEPTEMBER 13 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 16-20 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AIR RACES Reno The longest running air race and the only closed course pylon race event. Six different race plane classes battle just 60 feet from the ground, with the Unlimited and Jet classes reaching speeds over 500 mph! Besides the on-your-feet action of the races, spectators have close-up access to racing aircraft, pilots, and crews in the “pits.” There’s a world-class air show, military display and demonstrations, aircraft display and great concessions. Experience the action of the “World’s Fastest Motorsport”! airrace.org
SEPTEMBER 20 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 20 IRONMAN© LAKE TAHOE North Lake Tahoe This Lake Tahoe event gained a reputation as being the toughest IRONMAN©, but that doesn’t stop the world’s strongest and best athletes from competing for lifetime bragging rights. ironmanlaketahoe.com
SEPTEMBER 21-OCTOBER 3 NATIONAL REINED COW HORSE ASSOCIATION 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. Threeyear-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
SEPTEMBER 23-27 STREET VIBRATIONS FALL RALLY Downtown Reno Enjoy HOG heaven at this celebration of music, metal and motorcycles. Everyone knows that the “Biggest Little City in the World” offers unparalleled entertainment, but this event takes it to a new level with live entertainment on outdoor stages, parades, ride-in shows, stunt shows, and bike cruises. Don’t miss America’s Finest Custom Bike Builder’s Expo and the Tattoo Expo for body art extraordinaire. Open to all makes of motorcycles. roadshowsreno.com
SEPTEMBER 26 TRACTORS & TRUFFLES Fallon A farm-to-plate gourmet dinner and arts event featuring renowned chefs from around the country, preparing a five-course 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 26-27 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
OCTOBER 2-4 BLUE GENES JAM Reno and Sparks The inaugural lifestyle festival features activities revolving around the world’s favorite clothing item – jeans. It celebrates Jacob Davis, a Reno tailor, who in the early 1870s altered the face of American fashion and pop culture by using rivets to reinforce pockets on work pants. The festival fun includes country and rock concerts, a retail marketplace for denim-related collectibles, designer denim and accessories, a mini-film festival and a fund-raising ball. bluegenesjam.com
OCTOBER 2-4 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
OCTOBER 3-4 WAGON WHEEL COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL Reno This inaugural country music festival features A-list performers, food, art, clothing and country western vendors. The lifestyle event takes place at beautiful Rancho San Rafael Park and promises to be the hottest new country music festival in the West. wagonwheelmusicfestival.com
OCTOBER 3-4 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
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OCTOBER 3-4 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OUTHOUSE RACES Virginia City The hilarious Comstock tradition pits teams of costumed outhouse racers against each other. One person rides and the remaining team members push, pull or drag the decorated outhouse in an all-out potty race. visitvirginiacitynv.com
OCTOBER 3-4 SPARTAN RACE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP Squaw Valley The world’s leading obstacle race series brings its World Championship to Lake Tahoe. Considered the most challenging race event of the year, it tests strength, challenges endurance, and pushes racers past their limits as they fight for ultimate glory. spartan.com
OCTOBER 9-11 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, and paddle boarding. There are marathon classes as well as family runs and walks. laketahoemarathon.com
OCTOBER 10 REDRUN Virginia City The historic mining town transforms into a zombie apocalypse as participants run for their lives while zombies attempt to capture their flags in this obstacle run. It features some of the most famously chilling landmarks and was named in a Top 10 list of zombie events. redrunvc.com
OCTOBER 10-11 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
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OCTOBER 12-18 RENO BITES RESTAURANT WEEK Reno There are nationally recognized chefs and amazing locally owned restaurants in Reno. Explore the vibrant culinary scene during a week of prix fixe menus, specialty items, and events, culminating with an exhilarating Chef Showdown in which Reno’s best chefs compete for prizes and bragging rights. renobitesweek.com
OCTOBER 16-17 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 17-24 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 18 PUMPKINPALOOZA Sparks Victorian Square It’s hometown fun at this celebration of all things pumpkin, named a “Top 10 Event” by Food Network Magazine. Featuring live music, pumpkin derby, pumpkin seed spitting and pie-eating contests, children’s costume parade and carnival games and more. pumpkinpalooza.org
OCTOBER 31 77TH 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 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 20-22 RENO COMIC CON Reno-Sparks Convention Center Thousands of fans, many in costume as their favorite characters, will enjoy meeting superstar comic creators and celebrating the best in TV and movies, pop-fi, sci-fi, video and table gaming, toys, original art, collectibles, contests, and everything pop culture. wizardworld.com/home-reno.html
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NOVEMBER 27-29 CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS Sparks Browse among more than 100 craft and gift booths at this annual gift marketplace. Enjoy cooking, cocktail, and floral arranging demonstrations; Santa Claus; and activities for the kids. janugget.com
DECEMBER 4-5 SPARKS HOMETOWNE CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION Sparks Victorian Square It’s a weekend of traditional activities and a great way to kick off the holiday season. Friday evening has a tree lighting ceremony; Saturday’s activities include the annual Christmas parade, photos with Santa and arts and crafts shopping. cityofsparks.us
DECEMBER 26-31 RENO CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PRESENTS THE NEVADA CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL Reno Enjoy 11 concerts in six days, culminating with a New Year’s Eve celebration. Featuring world renowned 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. 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, and kids’ activities, local crafters and even movies! RENO STREET FOOD Every Friday evening, May 22-Oct 2 Idlewild Park RenoStreetFood.com SPARKS FOOD TRUCK DRIVE-IN Every 2nd and 4th Saturday evening, Jun-Sep Sparks Victorian Square facebook.com/FoodTruckDriveIn
FEED THE CAMEL Every Wednesday evening, Jun-Sep 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, skin care products, specialty foods, and even pet products! There are six markets throughout the area from summer to early fall, including the flagship Reno Farmers’ Market at the Sands Regency, the only covered/indoor market in Northern Nevada. shirleysfarmersmarkets.com WINE WALKS – RIVERWALK DISTRICT Downtown Reno Every third Saturday of the month, the Riverwalk District hosts the popular afternoon Wine Walk along the Truckee River and neighboring streets in downtown Reno. renoriver.org RENO BEER CRAWLS 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 and 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
FEBRUARY 14 VALENTINE’S PAJAMA CRAWL renopajamacrawl.com MARCH 14 RENO LEPRECHAUN CRAWL crawlreno.com/event/leprechauncrawl APRIL 18 STEAMPUNK TAVERN STROLL crawlreno.com/event/steampunkstroll
JUNE 13 COWBOY CRAWL cowboycrawl.com JULY 18 RENO SUPERHERO CRAWL crawlreno.com/event/superhero SEPTEMBER 19 RENO PIRATE CRAWL crawlreno.com/event/piratecrawl OCTOBER 24 RENO ZOMBIE CRAWL & THRILLER UNDER THE ARCH crawlreno.com/event/zombiecrawl NOVEMBER TBA RENO COMIC CON CRAWL renocomicconcrawl.com
NOVEMBER 28 PRAY FOR SNOW BEER CRAWL renobeercrawl.com DECEMBER 12 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. The agility of a canine. Whatever you’re into, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more unexpected take on the sporting life than Reno Tahoe USA’s.
FEBRUARY 2-14 RENO-TAHOE SENIOR WINTER GAMES reno.gov/seniorgames
FEBRUARY 14-16 NCVA PRESIDENT’S DAY TOURNAMENT ncva.com/girls/tournaments/presidents-day
MARCH 14-15 DUBLIN DIRTY - IRISH SOFTBALL EVENT dublindirty.com
MARCH 27-29 2015 AKC NATIONAL AGILITY CHAMPIONSHIP akc.org/events/agility/national_agility_championship
APRIL 10-JUNE 30 USBC WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIPS bowl.com/womenschamp APRIL 10-JUNE 30 USBC MIXED TOURNAMENT bowl.com/mixed
APRIL 18-20 & APRIL 24-26 NCVA FAR WESTERN NATIONAL QUALIFIER ncva.com/girls/tournaments/far-western-national-qualifier
MAY 9-10 NCVA POWER LEAGUE REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS ncva.com/girls/league-play/power-league
MAY 16-17 GIRLS AAU PACIFIC DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP jamonit.org
MAY 23-25 JAM ON IT MEMORIAL DAY BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT jamonit.org
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MAY 23-31 SENIOR SOFTBALL-USA 2015 ROCK ‘N RENO CHALLENGE CUP seniorsoftball.com
JULY 10-12 COORS LIGHT 48 HOUR BONEYARD BLAST – SOFTBALL EVENT www.boneyardblast.com JULY 14-17 TC/USA NATIONALS GIRLS FASTPITCH triplecrownsports.com
JULY 20-25 TRIPLE CROWN SPORTS 16U/18U OPEN WESTERN WORLD SERIES triplecrownsports.com AUGUST 5-16 RENO-TAHOE SENIOR SUMMER GAMES reno.gov/seniorgames AUGUST 21-23 & AUGUST 28-30 STORM NATIONAL MIXED CHAMPIONSHIPS nationalmixed.com OCTOBER 2-NOVEMBER 1 STORM NATIONAL MIXED CHAMPIONSHIPS nationalmixed.com
OCTOBER 17-18 & OCTOBER 20-25 BLOOD-N-GUTS SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT thisandthatsoftball.com
2016 Events MAY 2016 RENO RIVER FESTIVAL
JUNE 3-5, 2016 STREET VIBRATIONS SPRING RALLY
JUNE 16-25, 2016 RENO RODEO
JULY 1-31, 2016 ARTOWN
JULY-AUGUST 2016 LAKE TAHOE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL
AUGUST 1-7, 2016 BARRACUDA CHAMPIONSHIP
AUGUST 2-7, 2016 HOT AUGUST NIGHTS
AUGUST 2016 HOT AUGUST NIGHTS AUCTION PRESENTED BY BARRETT-JACKSON
89
To Sacramento, San Francisco 80
AUGUST 29-SEPTEMBER 5, 2016
89
BURNING MAN
AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 5, 2016 BEST IN THE WEST NUGGET RIB COOK-OFF
Squaw Valley
SEPTEMBER 9-11, 2016 THE GREAT RENO BALLOON RACE
SEPTEMBER 14-18, 2016 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AIR RACES
Alpine Meadows
Tahoe City
Granlibakken
Homewood
SEPTEMBER 21-25, 2016 STREET VIBRATIONS FALL RALLY
SEPTEMBER 30-OCTOBER 2, 2016 BLUE GENES JAM
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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.
Oregon
Idaho
RENO SPARKS
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Sacramento
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Nevada
California
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Carson City
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San Francisco
Las Vegas 395
Los Angeles
PYRAMID LAKE Sutcliffe Pyramid Hwy.
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Nixon
SPARKS
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267 Northstar California
CALIFORNIA NEVADA
RENO Truckee
Tahoe Vista
Fernley
431
431
95
Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe
Crystal Bay
To Fallon, Elko, Salt Lake City
Incline Village
395 Virginia City
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Dayton
WASHOE LAKE
Silver Springs
50
LAKE TAHOE
Carson City
LAKE LAHONTAN
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Meeks Bay
Zephyr Cove
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Genoa
50
207
Emerald Bay
Stateline
Minden
South Lake Tahoe
88
Gardnerville
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A A D I A N R EV N IFO L A C
89
50
95A
395 Yerington
Illustrations by Kimber Moore Design
TM
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1/2015 40M Photo By Ryan Del Ponte