Nevada Calendar of Events 2010
Please check with the events’ Web sites to confirm dates and other details.
January 15-17
SCORE Laughlin Desert Challenge: The first major motorsports event of the year in the United States will be held in Laughlin, the Southern Nevada desert town along the shores of the Colorado River. Motorsports fans and racers from 11 U.S. States, Mexico, Denmark and Germany will gather for this exciting popular racing event. For more information call 818-225-8402 or visit www.score-international.com.
January 16-17
White Pine Fire and Ice Show:
In Nevada, art has been known to take many—often peculiar—forms. Maybe the most unusual (and temporary) are the sculptures at the annual White Pine Fire and Ice Show at Cave Lake State Park near Ely. The snow- and ice-sculpting event includes a fireworks show, and the town of Ely lights off fireworks from the historic Ghost Train. For more information:
elynevada.net
,
parks.nv.gov/cl.htm
, 775-728-4460
January 16-December 18 (ongoing)
Riverwalk District Wine Walk:
The Riverwalk Merchants Association presents Wine Walks the third Saturday of every month along the Truckee River and on neighboring streets in the Riverwalk District downtown Reno.
You must be 21 or older to participate in Wine Walks. For
more information visit
www.renoriver.org
or call 775-825-9255
January 23-30
National Cowboy Poetry Gathering:
The National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, held annually in Elko, celebrates its 26th anniversary this year. It is a week-long celebration of life in the rural West. Poetry, music, stories, gear, film, photography and food all contribute to the texture of an event that has become an annual ritual for thousands of people who value the people and cultures that live and work in the West. For more information, visit http://www.westernfolklife.org/
January 28-December 30 (ongoing)
Riverwalk Arts Walk:
The
Riverwalk District has introduced a new monthly art walk. Come out and satisfy your need for artistic enrichment with the Riverwalk Merchants Association and the West Street Market as they team up once a month to provide a wealth of arts and culture in downtown Reno. Many of the events, exhibits, and activities are free. The Walk is the last Thursday of every month in the evening. For more information visit
www.renoriver.org
or call 775-825-925
February 12-14
Hot August Nights Winter Car Classic: This exciting new event will take place in Reno, and will feature a three-day Show-n-Shine. There will be daily live entertainment featuring the music of the 50's and the 60's, an exhibit hall with over 150 automotive related vendors, automotive seminars, a cool car showroom with cars for sale, a car collectors corner, celebrity guests, a Valentines Sweet Hop dance, and much more! For more information call 775-782-8144 or visit http://www.hotaugustnights.net/
February 14
Lock your love this Valentine's Day in Lovelock:
The perfect opportunity for couples to celebrate with Valentine’s Day right around the corner Lovelock style by locking their love. Adjacent to the Pershing County Courthouse in Lovelock on Interstate 80, Lovers Lock Plaza features a series of green posts connected by chains and lovers’ locks. The location is easily accessible, and locks are for sale at area businesses. For more information visit LoversLock.com
February 19-21
Eagles and Agriculture:
The annual “Eagles and Ag” planned in northern Nevada’s Carson Valley will feature tours and workshops that focus on the influx of bald eagles and other birds of prey that come to the scenic Carson Valley each year during the winter calving season. Staged and hosted by the Carson Valley Inn on US Hwy 395 in Minden. For more information call 775-782-8207 or go online to visitcarsonvalley.org.
February 26-28
NASCAR Weekend:
The annual NASCAR Weekend held at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway will kick off with qualifying for the Shelby American NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Friday, February 26 followed by the Sam’s Town 300 NASCAR Nationwide Series race on Saturday, February 27. Don’t miss the fast, adrenaline pumping action of this popular sporting event. For more information, visit www.nascar.com.
March 5-14
North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival:
North Lake Tahoe comes alive for 10 days jam-packed with family friendly winter fun. Check out snow-sculpture contests, parades, races, parties and concerts, as well as a polar bear swim and a luau. For more details on the North Lake Tahoe Snow Festival, log on to http://www.tahoesnowfestival.com.
March 10-14
Shooting the West:
Welcome to Shooting the West, a photographers’ symposium with distinguished presenters in many different photographic fields. Shooting the West is proud to present Jodi Cobb, internationally recognized photographer who has worked with National Geographic for 30 years, Jay Discard, speaker and photographer, and others. Throw in participant shows, juried contests, vendors like Canon and Epson, portfolio reviews, great Basque food and lots of Winnemucca style fun… and you have a pretty good idea what it’s all about. For more information, call 877-623-3501.
March 11-15
Wings and Wildlife Festival:
Take a walk on the wild side of southern Nevada. The annual Wings and Wildlife Festival will take place along the riverfront in Laughlin. A celebration of all things wild in the Mojave Desert, the festival promises days of exploring, fun and learning along the Colorado River and educational seminars. For more information, visit www.snbwtp.org.
March 13
19th Annual Mountain Oyster Fry and St. Patrick’s Day Parade:
Get your taste buds ready for a gustatory experience when the “Gonadologists” start their stoves up for the annual Mountain Oyster Fry in Virginia City. Cooking begins at 10 a.m. and tasting begins at 12 noon in the Bucket of Blood parking lot, C and Union Streets. The cost is $1 per taste. Don’t miss the St. Patrick’s Day parade on C Street at 12 noon with dancers from the Miriam Blanchette School of Irish Dance. For more information, call 775-847-4386.
March 19-21
Red Rock Rendezvous
Red Rock Rendezvous, the country’s largest climbing festival, returns to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area (a short drive west of the Las Vegas Strip). With more than 125 clinics to choose from, climbers of all skill levels will find an activity that suits them. For more information:
redrockrendezvous.com
, 800-829-2009, 509-340-1151
March 25-28
Laughlin River Stampede
:
America’s top cowboys and cowgirls compete in one of the PRCA’s top-20 rodeos. Autograph sessions are held daily with many past and present world champions, along with Miss Rodeo America.
For more information, visit
www.laughlinchamber.com/events.htm
March 27
Monster Jam World Finals:
The Monster Jam World Finals, held at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, features the ultimate monster trucks in the world competing for the highly coveted titles of Racing World Champion and Freestyle World Champion. Log on to
http://www.unlvtickets.com/
for more information.
April 17
Henderson Heritage Parade and Festival: Come and celebrate with fun for the whole family at the City of Henderson's Heritage Parade and Festival in the Water Street District. Festivities include live entertainment, international food booths, dance and cooking demonstrations, craft booths and a classic car show. For information: 887-775-5252, www.hendersonlive.com.
April 17-18
Boulder City Fine Arts Festival:
Eligibility is opened to fine artists in all media residing in the seven southwestern states served by the Colorado River: Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, California, Nevada, Idaho and Utah. The artists exhibit their work in an outdoor setting over 130 acres in historic downtown Boulder City. The show features more than 130 artists and 15,000 visitors.For information call 877-292-2138 or visit
www.bcfineartsfestival.com
.
April 21-25
Laughlin River Run:
The 27th annual Laughlin River Run is the largest motorcycle event in the western United States and features nonstop casino action, Nevada-style gaming, top-name entertainment, demo rides, exhibits and more. Entertainment in the past included REO Speedwagon, Edgar Winter and Rick Dirringer. Visit
http://www.laughlinriverrun.com/
for updated information and announcements.
April 22-24
Reno Jazz Festival
:
The Reno Jazz Festival ranks as one of the largest and most vibrant jazz festivals of its kind in the nation, attracting thousands of participants each year. The annual festival hosts hundreds of performances and clinics featuring popular jazz artists along with middle school, high school and college groups from around the West. Contact 775-784-4046 for details or visit
www.unr.edu/rjf
April 24
Las Vegas City of Lights Jazz and Rhythm & Blues: The 18th Annual Las Vegas City of Lights Jazz & Rhythm & Blues Festival is back by popular demand and will remain at its new location the Government Amphitheater near the Las Vegas Strip. The superior sound system and seating arrangement ensures that every seat is a good seat. For information call 800-969-VEGA
VEGAS or visit
http://www.yourjazz.com/.
April 24-25
Sertoma Chili Cook-off & Craft Fair:
Fifty of the best chili cooks in the country compete in Minden for a spot in the World Chili Cook-off. Competitors include Nevadans and past world champions who present batches of their finest red chili, green chili, and salsa to be judged. The event includes live music, contests and 70 vendors selling art, jewelry, Indian flutes, clothing and more. For information visit:
chilicookoff.com
or call 775-265-5463.
April 29-May 2
Genoa Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival:
Grab your favorite Cowboy hat and boots and travel on down to Genoa for a kickin’ time at the Genoa Cowboy poetry & Music Festival. The event will feature nationally known cowboy poets and musicians including Waddie Mitchell, Don Edwards, Paul Zarzyski, Lacy J. Dalton and the Dalton Gang, David John and the Comstock Cowboys, Sourdough Slim Old West Trio to name a few. Tickets now available online at: www.genoacowboyfestival.com or by calling 775-781-0150, 775-782-8207 or 775-782-8696.
May 6-9
Vegas Uncork’d: Vegas Uncork'd, presented by Bon Appétit magazine, is the world's most innovative culinary festival held in one of the most dynamic and important culinary destinations in the world. You'll rub elbows with celebrity chefs such as Cat Cora, Bobby Flay, Wolfgang Puck and Charlie Palmer, as well as the rising stars of the Las Vegas restaurant scene. The weekend is packed with delicious opportunities and unique-to-Vegas experiences such as world renowned resorts and 24 hour entertainment. For information: 888-936-6366, www.vegasuncorked.com.
May 7-9
Reno River Festival:
The Reno River Festival is America’s premier whitewater event that takes place in the heart of downtown Reno at the Truckee River Whitewater Park. Known for attracting the world’s top whitewater athletes for an action-filled weekend in Reno, the festival also offers free kayak clinics for all ability levels and ages. The event attracts more than 32,000 people to the thriving riverfront district in downtown Reno. For a schedule of events and clinics, as well as more information, visit
http://www.renoriverfestival.com/
.
May 8-9
Cinco de Mayo Festival
: The Reno/Sparks – Cinco de Mayo Festival offers one of the largest and most spectacular showcases of Latino culture in the country, featuring world-class musicians, comedians, Charros, sporting events, food festival, auto show, film, beauty pageant and gala awards. Victorian Square in downtown Sparks and throughout Reno. For more infoormation call (775) 826-1818 or visit
www.nhsreno.org
.
May 13-16
Helldorado Days: The longest-running civic event in the history of Las Vegas, is an outdoor tribute to theWild West. With 40,000 people in attendance, Helldorado Days offers a four-day pro rodeo, a parade, carnival treasure hunt for gold, whiskering contest, golf tournament, poker tournament, art show and auction, trial ride, exhibits and food. For information: 877-775-5252, www.hendersonlive.com.
May 14-16
Spring Wings Bird Festival:
Spring Wings is a celebration of birding in and around Fallon, the Lahontan Valley Wetlands and Stillwater Wildlife Refuge – on the Pacific Flyway and home to hundreds of species of birds. The three-day event features workshops, field trips, tours, guest speakers and a banquet. Visit
http://www.springwings.org/
for more information.
May 26-31
Jim Butler Days:
Tonopah just wouldn’t be Tonopah without a stubborn donkey and a man named Jim Butler, rancher credited with the original silver claim that launched one of Nevada’s biggest mining booms. And every Memorial Day Weekend, Jim, his wife Belle and his mule are fondly remembered at the annual celebration known as Jim Butler Days. Come join in all the fun – parade, dirt track races,
s
tate
m
ining
e
vents, children events, street dance and vendors. For information: 775-482-9889,
http://tonopahnevada.com
,
e-
mail for questions:
JBD@hotmail.com
.
May 27-October 31
(Carson City-Virginia City)
V&T Railroad rides:
Travel back to the bonanza days of the V&T Railroad, the “Queen of the Shortlines,” Wild West history, spectacular scenery and an authentic steam engine. Watch for silver ore, mines, and maybe even wild mustangs along the original route through the Flowery Mountains. For information: call 800-NEVADA-1, 800-718-7587 or
visitcarsoncity.com
,
visitvirginiacitynv.com
.
May 28-30
Run-A-Mucca Motorcycle Rally:
The 9th Annual Run-A-Mucca Motorcycle Rally in Winnemucca is sure to be their best event ever. Get ready for plenty of action with free live concerts, a $1,000 Poker Run, death defying special acts, and of course, the burning bike. For more information, visit
www.runamucca.com
.
June 4-5
Reno-Tahoe Odyssey:
Relay teams race through the alpine and desert on a 178-mile course in the Reno-Tahoe Odyssey. Trails bypass mountain streams and follow the path of pioneers and settlers. Take in some of the most stunning scenery in northern Nevada on this two-day trek. Proceeds benefit local charities. For more information, visit
http://www.renotahoeodyssey.com/
.
June 4-6
Street Vibrations Spring Fever Rally:
Street Vibrations Spring Fever Rally condenses the excitement of Street Vibrations into one weekend in Sparks at Victorian Square. The event will include the Controlled Burn Fire Dancers, live entertainment bike games, competition ride-in shows, poker runs and walks, more than 80 vendors, VIP parties for participants and more. Spectator admission is free but there is a fee for motorcycle participation. For information, visit
http://www.road-shows.com/
June 4-6
Winnemucca Mule Races, Show, & Draft Horse:
Competitors flock from across the country for the first event of the mule-racing season and a weekend of fun for the whole family. Talented mule’s gallop, leap and trot through dozens of competitions as spectators cheer them on from the stands. Vendors selling everything from gourmet hot sauces to jewelry and antiques will be there. For more information:
mule-drafthorse-show.com
, 775-623-5071
June 6
America’s Most Beautiful Bike Ride:
This annual bicycle ride around Lake Tahoe has built a reputation for not only its spectacular scenery, but also its great food and support. The event, held the first Sunday in June, includes a boat cruise, 35-mile fun ride and a 72-mile ride around the lake, as well as a 100-mile “century” ride. The course circles the lake with a challenging 800-foot climb to a vista point overlooking the serene Emerald Bay. Proceeds benefit the Lake Tahoe Bikeway, the plan to build and interconnect bike lanes and trails around Lake Tahoe, and is the culmination of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of America’s National Team in Training spring fund-raising program. Log on to
http://www.bikethewest.com/
for more details.
June 10-13
Carson Valley Days:
This four-day event has its roots in schutzenfests (shooting contests) of late 19th century, first held by the early-day settlers from Germany. Stay for the parade, pro rodeo, craft fair fine-art exhibit, dance, games and kangaroo court. All events are at Lampe Park in Gardnerville. For more information, visit
http://www.carsonvalley2030.org/
.
June 11-13
Carson City Rendezvous:
Living history weekend. Mountain man encampment, Native American dancing and crafts. Civil War Volunteers with skirmishes, stage coach rides, camel rides, Pueblo de Nevada dancing, Scottish clan camp. Nevada Gunfighters show, arts and crafts, food court. Free western music on the star stage all weekend. Encampments open at noon. For details log on to
http://www.visitcarsoncity.com/
.
June 12 & 13
Mark Twain’s Wild West Weekend:
Come celebrate a time in history when the West was wild and gun- totin’ men were everywhere. Join in fun activities for all - cherry pie eating contest, chili feed cook-off, music from “Old West,” cowboy poetry, Wild West shootout, “Bold Face Liars” contest, Tahoe Queen Actors live skit and all-day western arts and crafts fair. And you don’t want to miss the race on Sunday between the Great American Stern Wheeler the Tahoe Queen and M.S. Dixie II starting at 10:15 a.m. Location Zephyr Cove Resort, Zephyr Cove, Nevada. For information: 800-23-TAHOE (800-238-2463)
June 16-19
Tour de Nez:
The 18th annual Tour de Nez, a Celebration of Cycling, is part of USA Cycling’s national race series comprised of 33 events throughout the United States with participants earning points toward individual national ranking. The schedule includes a masters race and a pro race with cyclists winding through the streets of Reno’s downtown river district. Additionally, the event features a race expo area and other festivities including live music. Visit
http://www.tourdenez.com/
for details.
June 17-26
Reno Rodeo:
The 91st anniversary of the “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West” features the best rodeo athletes from around the world, as well as a parade, a carnival and numerous craft booths. Let the kids try their hand at “mutton bustin’” and grab a ringside seat for the excitement of steer wrestling, bronc riding, bull riding and more. For more information on the Reno Rodeo, visit
www.renorodeo.com
June 18-20
Elko Motorcycle Jamboree:
More than 6,000 motorcyclists converge on the streets of Elko for the annual Jamboree. The weekend’s activities include an open-air market, live music, antique and classic motorcycle show, parade, “outdoor interactive” activities such as touring, dirt-biking and a poker run. Visit
http://www.elkomotorcyclejamboree.com/
.
June 25-26
Great Eldorado BBQ, Brews & Blues Festival:
Nothing washes down a good barbecue like a cold beer and cool blues, and party-goers will find it all plus live music, great food and microbrews, right in downtown Reno. Visit
http://www.eldoradoreno.com/
for more information.
July 1-31
Artown:
Named one of the largest arts events in the country, the annual summer arts festival in Reno features hundreds of performing and visual arts events in dozens of locations citywide including music, dance, theater, opera, children’s workshops, movies in the park, cowboy poetry, historical walks, visual arts and many more. Visit
http://www.renoisartown.com/
for more information.
July 2-4
National Basque Festival:
When Nevada celebrated its centennial in 1964, the Elko Basque Club decided to commemorate the state’s rich Basque history with a grand-scale festival. They invited all of the existing Basque clubs to participate and to send musicians, dancers, and athletes to Elko for the event. Because of the success of the activities, and the geographical centrality of Elko to other Basque communities, Elko became the site of the annual National Basque Festival. Festivities include traditional dancing, music, sporting events, food and a parade. For more information visit
http://www.elkocva.com/
or
http://www.elkobasque.com/.
July 3-4
Boulder City Damboree Celebration: This year’s celebration, “A Blast from the Past,” honors those who built Hoover Dam and Boulder City. The event will span two days with a pancake breakfast, a parade, music, fireworks and other festivities in Boulder City. For information: 702-293-9256, www.bcnv.org.
July 4
Star Spangled Sparks:
This event will celebrate the 230th birthday of the United States with a day-long extravaganza that starts at Sparks Marina at 7:30 a.m. with numerous fun-filled activities for the entire family. Stretch your legs during the two-mile Fun Run/Walk or the 5K course. The celebration moves to Victorian Square at 7 p.m. with more events and a spectacular fireworks show beginning at 9:30 p.m. Visit
http://www.ci.sparks.nv.us/
for more information.
July 9-August 22
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival:
Experience one of Lake Tahoe’s most popular events and get a front row seat to the lake’s greatest cultural production at Sand Harbor. This season you have the opportunity to see all of Shakespeare's plays in one night; as we perform the hilariously entertaining Complete Works ofWilliam Shakespeare. The festival also unveils the premiere of a world music concert series every Monday night. Tickets are available online at
http://www.laketahoeshakespeare.com/
or by calling 800-74-SHOWS (800-747-4697. Tickets start at $22 for open seating.
July 12-18
The Legends Reno-Tahoe Open at Montreux:
A top field of PGA TOUR professionals faces off at one of the area’s toughest and most scenic golf courses, the private Montreux Golf and Country Club in Reno. The event features a pro-am tournament and golf professionals competing for a $3 million purse. Contact 775-322-3900 for details or visit http://www.renotahoeopen.pgatour.com/.
July 13-18
Celebrity Golf Championship:
Come watch more than 75 of your favorite athletes, movie stars and television stars as they vie for top honors in this annual tournament held at the Edgewood Golf Course in Stateline, Nev., on Lake Tahoe’s south shore. Log on to
http://www.tahoecelebritygolf.com/
for more details.
July 30, 31 & August 1
Silver Dollar Car Classic:
One of Carson City’s legendary events, the Silver Dollar Car Classic, offers a spectacular fireworks show, treasure hunt, drive-in movie, champion speedway parade laps, contests and prizes. Help celebrate the show’s 16 years of classic cars, speedway excitement and hot-rod magic. Visit
http://www.silverdollarcar.com/
for more details.
July 30, 31-August 8
Hot August Nights:
This nationally recognized annual celebration of vintage music and autos returns to Reno for another famous cruise down Virginia Street. Featuring top entertainers of the ’50s and ’60s, car auctions, poker runs, drag races and parades, this event promises to be the best of the best for car-lovers everywhere. Visit
http://www.hotaugustnights.net/
for more information.
August 13-15
Discover Jarbidge Days:
Celebrate the 101st birthday of one of the most remote towns in America with concerts, barbecues, slide shows, a parade, live music and town tours. Jarbidge is as beautiful as it is remote, and visitors can enjoy undisturbed scenic views as they drive to a town nearly 50 miles from the nearest paved road. For more information:
jarbidge.org
, 775-488-2311
August 14-18
The Mastercraft Pro Wakeboard Tour:
World Sports & Marketing, producers of more than 250 televised competitions including the ESPN X Games Wakeboarding events, will add a splash of fun to the summer as they bring to Reno the world’s best wake boarders for a two-day nationally televised event. Log on to http://www.visitrenotahoe.com/for details.
August 25-29
Nevada Territory Wild West Fair: (formerly Nevada State Fair)
The Nevada State Fair will take you back to the good old days when agriculture was king and cotton candy was a special treat. You will find all the traditional livestock events and 4-H kids from all over Nevada. There's a carnival midway and all those fun rides for kids and adults alike. Reno Sparks Livestock Events Center in Reno. For more information: visit
www.nvstatefair.com
or call 775- 688-5767.
August 30-September 6
Burning Man:
Once a year, tens of thousands of participants gather in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert just outside of Reno to create Black Rock City, dedicated to community, art, self-expression, and self reliance. They depart one week later, having left no trace whatsoever. The art theme this year is Metropolis. Burning Man will inspect the daily course of the city life and the future prospect of civilization. For more information, visit
www.burningman.com
.
September 1-6
Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off:
The biggest and most prestigious rib cook-off competition in the United States features more than 20 cookers, 100 crafts booths, free entertainment including headliner acts nightly on the main stage all in the heart of downtown Sparks. The event draws more than 500,000 hungry visitors and has been featured on the Food Network year after year. Visit
http://www.nuggetribcookoff.com/
for details.
September 3-5
Hearts of Gold Cantaloupe Festival and Country Fair:
The Hearts O’ Gold Cantaloupe Festival features concerts, parade, livestock show, mud volleyball, entertainment, kids games, and cantaloupe foods and contests. Come out to the Churchill County Fairgrounds in Fallon to taste the sweet fruit of autumn and take part in the fun. For more information, visit
http://www.falloncantaloupefestival.com/
.
September 10-12
The Great Reno Balloon Race:
More than just an exhibition of these gorgeous flying machines, the Great Reno Balloon Race features the nation’s top balloonists competing in aerial events like the Hare and the Hound, Target Drop and Key Grab. Visit
http://www.renoballoon.com/
.
September 10-12
Virginia City International Camel Races:
While not known for their speed, these desert troopers hit the racetrack as a nostalgic reminder of the Comstock Lode’s bonanza days. This family event features camel and ostrich races for a hilarious good time. Visit
www.visitvirginiacitynv.com
for more information.
September 15-18
World of Speed:
Thrill-seekers test their limits at the annual World of Speed competition near West Wendover. Land-speed racing on the Bonneville Salt Flats includes streamliners, lakesters, roadsters, highway-haulers, trucks, production, altered, street-legal, electric bar stools, go-carts, and junior dragsters. For more information, visit
http://www.saltflats.com/
.
September 15-19
National Championship Air Races:
The world’s longest running air race is a favorite among Reno locals and visitors alike. The nationally recognized event features a variety of race classes, military and historic airplane displays and aerobatics exhibitions. Visit
http://www.airrace.org/
.
September 16-19
Wild West Shootout and Dayton Valley Sports Expo:
Come watch the inaugural Wild West Shootout Gun Dog Hunting Championships and the Dayton Valley Sports Expo with more than 200 sports-related vendors in Dayton. The Wild West Shootout is a timed trial competition that tests the skills of dog and hunter alike, and the winner takes the $10,000 purse. Visit
www.wildwestshootout.com
for more information.
September 22-26
Street Vibrations Fall Rally:
Get your motor running with five days of motorcycle tours, live concerts and entertainment, ride-in shows, a parade, poker run and numerous vendors in Reno. An official event of the Harley-Davidson Dealers Association of Northern California, Street Vibrations is H.O.G. heaven. Log on to http://www.road-shows.com/for more information.
September 23-26
Super Run:
Car show in downtown Henderson, kick-off party at The District at Green Valley Ranch Resort. The festivities are always held the fourth weekend of September. Visit
http://www.superrun.com/
for more information.
September 24-26
Greek Food Festival: Get ready to enjoy the big fat Greek Food Festival, which returns to St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Las Vegas. This one falls squarely under the heading of “family entertainment,” and it doesn’t get much more wholesome than this. Listen to Greek music, buy trinkets from the marketplace, and, most importantly, eat. The festival promises everything from baklava to dolmathas to savory meats and beverages. For information: 702-889-6376, www.lasvegasgreekfestival.com.
September 24-26
Ruby Mountain Balloon Festival:
The sky over Elko fills with more than 40 brightly colored balloons during the Ruby Mountain Balloon Festival. Spectator admission is free. For more information, visit
www.rubymountainballoonfestival.com
.
September 25
Las Vegas 350:
The 2010 Las Vegas 350 NASCAR Camping World Truck Race will be held Saturday, Sept. 25, at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Join us for an exciting Saturday as the top racers from across the country compete. For information: 800-644-4444, http://www.lvms.com/
September 25-26
Genoa Candy Dance:
The annual Genoa Candy Dance, a craft fair like none other, nestled in the small town of Genoa in CarsonValley, is a perfect place to start your holiday gift shopping. It’s the ultimate candy and craft sale to which artisans from all over Northern Nevada flock to sell their wares. Breathe in the small-town spirit of an old-fashioned craft sale and stock up on candy and sugarplums for the upcoming holidays. The vendor booths are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and are scattered all through town, so wear walking shoes and get there early to get a good parking spot. Visit
www.genoanevada.org/candydancefaire.htm
for details.
September 30-October 3
Las Vegas BikeFest:
Come join more than 40,000 motorcyclists for this annual event. A four-day international event with a $100,000 Poker Run, custom bike show, vendor display, Miss & Mr. Las Vegas BikeFest competitions, Grand Prize Giveaways, entertainment, and more. Don’t miss Artistry in Iron, Master Builders’ Championship, where you will see a display of the 25 hottest builders’ bikes. For more information see the website at
http://www.lasvegasbikefest.com/
.
October 2-3
Reno Celtic Celebration:
Look for lots of music, dance, and unique athletic competition at the Reno Celtic Celebration. Bag Pipe bands
will play throughout the weekend, along with an assortment of dance troupes and Celtic music bands. Wander the grounds to see what you will find in the way of food, drink, and vendors with a variety of Celtic themed goods.
Bartley Ranch Regional Park in Reno. For more information: visit
www.renoceltic.org
.
October 2-3
Art in the Park:
The largest outdoor juried art festival in the Southwest will be held over two days in beautiful Boulder City, not far from Lake Mead, Hoover Dam and the bright lights of Las Vegas. Over 300 artists will display juried fine art, crafts and original art work. Unique food, beverages, demonstrations, live music, and activities for children and raffle giveaways will be on site. The event is free to the public and draws more than 100,000 visitors. For information:
artinthepark.org
, 702-293-0214.
October 8-10
Logandale Bluegrass Festival:
Local, regional and national bluegrass bands converge on the Clark County Fairgrounds in Logandale, near the spectacular Valley of Fire State Park in Southern Nevada, for a weekend of live foot-stompin’ music held annually the second week of October. For information and directions, visit
http://www.snvbluegrass.com/
.
October 9-10
Great Italian Festival:
The annual installment of this proud celebration is held at the Eldorado Hotel Casino in downtown Reno. Activities include a grape-stomp, spaghetti eating contest, Italian food booths and entertainment. Visit
www.eldoradoreno.com/events
.
October 15-17
Wild West Extravaganza:
This historical celebration brings a “boomtown” to life in the historic town of Pahrump with a gambling hall, stable, blacksmith’s shop and sheriff’s office. Gunfighters keep the crowd on its toes, while they browse vendor booths and listen to music. Don’t miss the Civil War Re-Enactment or the dinner-theater performance. Visit www.wildwestextravaganza.org
for more information.
October 20-24
Professional Bull Riders Built Ford Tough World Finals:
The final stop on the PBR circuit, Las Vegas hosts the world finals at Thomas and Mack Center with a variety of fun events and celebrations throughout town. Visit
http://www.pbrnow.com/
for a full schedule of events and world finals competitions.
October 21-24
Haunted Ghost Walks:
Minden, Gardnerville, Genoa – Relive history through the departed when ghosts rise from their resting places to tell you their stories and guide you through Carson Valley’s colorful past. For information: 775-782-2555,
visitcarsonvalley.org
.
October 23
Kit Carson Trail Ghost Walk:
Walk the path of yesterday with spirits of old Nevada appearing in historic homes. The first walking tour departs at 9:30 a.m. in the Nevada State Museum courtyard in downtown Carson City. Log on to http://www.visitcarsoncity.com/for details.
October 23-30
Nevada Day Celebration:
Enjoy eight days of events to celebrate Nevada’s birthday starting with the Kit Carson Trail Ghost Walk. Come enjoy many events throughout the week including a beard contest, food, music and the largest parade in the state, the Nevada Day Parade on Saturday, Oct. 30. Check out
http://www.nevadaday.com/
or call 800-NEVADA-
1
for more details.
October 27-November 5
Re/Max World Long Drive Championship:
The event has grown from a mostly low-key event to one that includes golfers from virtually all corners of the world. Competitors come from more than 125 countries, and compete for a purse worth over $450,000. The 2010 Re/Max championship event is open to all pros and amateurs alike. For information, visit
longdrivers.com
.
November 13-14
Aviation Nation:
Presented by the U.S. Air Force, Aviation Nation has been called one of the most diverse, entertaining and well-run air shows in America, as well as one of the largest aviation events occurring in North America. Approximately 125,000 spectators are expected to attend the free event held at Nellis Air Force Basin outside of Las Vegas, held annually Veterans Day weekend. Visit
http://www.aviationnation.org/
November 16-January 1
Chocolate Wonderland:
During this special time of year in Henderson visitors can take a self-guided factory tour and stroll down the ethel’s Cactus Garden’s illuminated cacti pathways featuring half a million lights to enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of Chocolate Wonderland. Throughout the season, local choirs will perform holiday favorites and Santa will also appear. Events and tours are free to the public – all ages are welcome. For information: 702-435-2641,
www.ethelschocolate.com
.
November 20-December 31
The Magical Forest:
The Magical Forest is a wonderful experience for kids of all ages. From the moment you enter you are enchanted by the sights and sounds of the holiday season. From strolling through decorated trees and displays to photos with Santa, rides on the carousel or train and nightly entertainment, there is something for everyone. For information: 702-259-3700,
opportunityvillage.com
.
December 2-11
National Finals Rodeo:
Each year rodeo's brightest stars meet in Las Vegas for the National Finals Rodeo. It's 10 days of ropin’, ridin’, buckin’, racin’ and wrestlin’; a.k.a. cowboy heaven! Once again rodeo's top-notch competitors will leave it all on the dirt at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas during their quest for respect, glory and rodeo gold! Vegas becomes a true cowboy scene with Western-themed events all over town. The official kickoff is the annual Downtown Hoedown at the Fremont Street Experience. Catch country stars perform live in the heart of Las Vegas. The party starts at 6 p.m. and admission is free. For more information on the Downtown Hoedown, visit http://www.vegasexperience.com/ and for information on the National Finals Rodeo, visit http://www.prorodeo.com/
December 2
Silver and Snowflake Festival of Lights:
Witness the lighting of the state capitol building and all of downtown Carson City during this spectacular festival of lights. Other activities include a visit from Santa and caroling. Log on to http://www.visitcarsoncity.com/ for details.
December 3-24
Christmas on the Comstock:
Christmas on the Comstock, almost a month-long celebration, that kicks off with an annual Christmas Parade of Lights in Virginia City. Shops are decorated in Victorian splendor and most stay open after the parade to serve warm apple cider. Stop by the Historic Fourth Ward School for a Victorian Christmas Tea or meet Father Christmas at the Visitors Center. For more information and a schedule of the month's events, log on to
http://www.visitvirginiacitynv.com/
.