Annual Festivals in Reno Nevada – Guide to Year-Round Fun
Reno, known as “The Biggest Little City in the World,” gears up for an exciting year of festivals annually. From arts and culture to music and food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local resident, a seasoned festival-goer, or a travel enthusiast looking to plan your next adventure, this guide to festivals in Reno will help you uncover the best of the city’s festival scene.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top festivals happening throughout the year, giving you a taste of what to expect and how to make the most of each event. Get ready to mark your calendars and experience the magic of Reno’s diverse festivals!
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January – Reno Latin Dance Fest
The Reno Latin Dance Fest is a multi-day event filled with workshops, performances, and social dancing. Dance enthusiasts from around the country gather to learn from top instructors in salsa, bachata, kizomba, and more. With live music and evening dance parties, it’s a high-energy event that keeps the winter blues at bay.
Family Friendly: No
Website: Reno Latin Dance Fest
February – Snow Fest
SnowFest! is a ten-day winter festival celebrating everything snow-related. While not directly in Reno, it’s a short drive to North Lake Tahoe. The festival features snow and ice sculpting contests, parades, polar bear swims, and more. It’s perfect for families looking to enjoy winter sports and activities in a festive atmosphere.
Family Friendly: Yes
Website: Tahoe Snow Fest
March – Reno Leprechaun Crawl
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style with the Reno Leprechaun Crawl. This lively event takes participants on a pub crawl through downtown Reno, with special drink discounts, costume contests, and live music. While primarily geared towards adults, some venues offer family-friendly activities during the day.
Family Friendly: No
Website: Reno Leprechaun Crawl
March – Northern Nevada Celtic Ceilidh
Celebrate Celtic culture with the Reno Celtic Celebration. This festival includes traditional music, dance, athletic events, and cultural exhibits. Enjoy performances by Celtic bands, watch highland dancers, and participate in workshops. The event also features vendors selling Celtic crafts and food.
Family Friendly: Yes
Website: Northern Nevada Celtic Ceilidh
April – Reno Jazz Festival
Hosted by the University of Nevada, Reno, the Reno Jazz Festival is one of the country’s largest and most acclaimed jazz festivals. It features performances by top jazz musicians, clinics, and competitions for student groups. Jazz lovers will appreciate the diverse lineup and the opportunity to see emerging and established artists.
Family Friendly: Yes
Website: Reno Jazz Festival
May / June – Reno River Festival
The Reno River Festival is a springtime celebration of outdoor activities and live music. Held at Wingfield Park, this festival includes whitewater competitions, craft beer gardens, food vendors, and an outdoor expo. The event is family-friendly, with a dedicated kids’ play area and various activities suitable for all ages.
Family Friendly: Yes
Website: Reno River Festival
June – The Great Eldorado BBQ, Brews and Blues Festival
This downtown Reno festival combines barbecue, craft beer, and blues music for a lively summer event. With top-notch BBQ vendors, a wide selection of craft beers, and performances by blues musicians, it’s a feast for the senses. While the focus is on adults, families can also enjoy the music and food offerings.
Family Friendly: Partially
Website: Reno BBQ, Brews and Blues Festival
July – Artown
Artown is a month-long celebration of the arts featuring over 500 events, including music, dance, theater, and visual arts. The festival occurs at various venues throughout Reno, showcasing local and international artists. Many events are free and family-friendly, making it an excellent choice for all ages.
Family Friendly: Yes
Website: Artown Reno
August – Hot August Nights
Travel back in time with Hot August Nights, Reno’s premier classic car and rock ‘n’ roll festival. This event features car shows, cruises, live entertainment, and memorabilia auctions – all celebrating the golden era of the 1950s and 1960s. It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane for car enthusiasts and music lovers alike. Family-friendly activities are also available, ensuring fun for all ages.
Family Friendly: Yes
Website: Hot August Nights
September – The Great Reno Balloon Race
The Great Reno Balloon Race is a sight to behold. Held at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, this festival features over 100 hot air balloons taking to the skies in a spectacular display. Held over three days, the event features early morning balloon launches, a Glow Show, and various family-friendly activities. It’s a spectacular sight and a beloved tradition for many Reno residents.
Family Friendly: Yes
Website: The Great Reno Balloon Race
October – The Great Italian Festival
The Eldorado Great Italian Festival brings the flavors and traditions of Italy to the streets of downtown Reno. Enjoy Italian food, wine, and entertainment, including grape stomping and a homemade sauce competition. The festival is family-friendly, with activities for kids, including face painting and crafts.
Family Friendly: Yes
Website: The Great Italian Festival
November – Nevada Day Celebration
Celebrate Nevada’s statehood with the Nevada Day Parade in Carson City, just a short drive from Reno. The parade features floats, marching bands, historical reenactments, and more. It’s an excellent way for families to learn about Nevada’s history and enjoy a festive day out.
Family Friendly: Yes
Website: Nevada Day Parade in Carson City
December – Reno Santa Pub Crawl
The Reno Santa Pub Crawl is one of the largest events of its kind, with thousands of participants dressed as Santa Claus spreading holiday cheer throughout downtown Reno. While primarily an adult event focused on bar hopping, there are family-friendly aspects earlier in the day, including a fun run and other holiday-themed activities.
Family Friendly: Partially
Website: Reno Santa Pub Crawl
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Conclusion
Reno’s festival scene offers a diverse array of events that cater to all interests and ages. From arts and culture to food and music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local resident, a dedicated festival-goer, or a travel enthusiast, these events provide the perfect opportunity to experience Reno’s vibrant culture and community.
For those looking to maximize their festival experience, consider planning a trip around these events and exploring what Reno offers beyond the festivals.
Ready to join in on the fun of festivals in Reno? Visit the official websites of these festivals to learn more and start planning your festival-filled year in Reno!
Mark your calendars and get ready for a year full of festivities!
