Annual Events & Festivals - Annual Events

The Reno/Tahoe area is a mecca of entertainment for visitors and locals alike, evident by the thousands of things to do, places to go, and sights to see detailed throughout this book. In this chapter, listed by month, are the events I feel are the biggest crowd-pleasers. But I also touch on the more time-honored events that we Insiders find just plain charming and down-homey.

The more flamboyant and highly visual celebrations that tend to be the norm on the Nevada side of the area are outlined, as well as the less dramatic but equally entertaining and fun festivals and celebrations that touch on the area’s historical beginnings and cultural diversity.

Most of the events listed are for visitors, but some are aimed at getting locals involved in the community. No matter which, everyone is welcome.

If you’re planning to be in the area for some of the major events, like Hot August Nights, the Great Reno Balloon Race, the Reno National Championship Air Races, or the Reno Rodeo, make sure you reserve your hotel or motel rooms early. And I do mean early: With attendance at Hot August Nights around 800,000, just about every room in the area is booked almost a year in advance.

Specific dates haven’t been included because most events are associated with just the month, so the dates are fluid. Therefore it behooves you to call the contact number or check the Web site address to verify the event’s actual date and location if you are planning to attend and want to set aside vacation time for the visit. (See the chapter on The Arts for more information on other cultural events.)

I’ve also included some events that are outside of the geographical area but that I think are definitely worth the time and effort to attend. Along with the major events described in this chapter, nonprofit organizations put on hundreds of cultural and athletic events each year to raise funds and to bring friends, family, and community together. Check local newspapers for specific happenings.