Archives: Events

Every August, the streets of Virginia City, Reno, and Sparks come alive with the sights, sounds, and scents of a bygone era during the 37th annual Hot August Nights. This iconic event, which began in 1986 as a way to boost tourism, has grown into one of the largest classic car events in the world. With over 6,000 registered vehicles from 1979 or older, Hot August Nights offers car enthusiasts a unique opportunity to relive the golden age of American automotive culture. The event kicks off in Virginia City, Nevada, and features ten days of Show-n-Shines, cruises, live entertainment, drag races, and more, capturing the essence of the 50s, 60s, and 70s.

As the event moves to Reno and Sparks, participants and spectators can enjoy free nightly entertainment, the Motorsport Auction Group (MAG) Auction, and an exciting swap meet. Hot August Nights is not just a car show; it's a celebration of nostalgia, rock and roll, and the enduring love affair with classic cars. This nonprofit organization has successfully created a vibrant, fun-filled experience that draws thousands of visitors from around the world to the Reno-Tahoe region. Mark your calendar and join us from August 4-11, 2024, for a trip down memory lane or a new adventure in the heart of classic car culture.

The Great Reno Balloon Race, held each September, transforms Reno’s skies into a colorful canvas of hot air balloons. This event, the world’s largest free hot-air ballooning spectacle, began in 1982 with just 20 balloons and now features up to 100. Created to attract visitors between the State Fair and the Reno Air Races, it has become a cherished tradition for locals and tourists alike.

Set in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, the event offers a variety of activities including the early morning Super Glow Show, the pre-dawn Dawn Patrol, and the breathtaking Mass Ascension. Attendees can explore Balloon Boulevard for crafts, souvenirs, and food, enjoy kid-friendly events like tethered balloon rides, and participate in pajama parties. With over 150,000 spectators each year, the Great Reno Balloon Race continues to soar, captivating audiences with its beauty and community spirit.

Food Truck Friday returns to Reno, ready to deliver another season of delicious street food and fun at Idlewild Park. Running weekly from June 7 to August 30, this beloved event features a variety of gourmet food trucks, dessert vendors, and local craft beer, wine, and spirits. Hosted by Reno Street Food, the event now boasts over 50 rotating vendors, including 24 newcomers this year, ensuring a fresh and exciting culinary adventure every week.

Held at 1800 Idlewild Drive, Food Truck Friday operates from 4 to 9 p.m., turning the scenic park into a lively gathering spot for food enthusiasts. This year, attendees can look forward to new vendors like Num Num Boba and those offering Brazilian, Filipino, and Thai delicacies. Steve Schroeder, the founder of Food Truck Friday, is thrilled to see new vendors joining the event, reflecting the growth and vibrancy of Reno’s food truck scene.

Ample parking is available to accommodate visitors, with lots on Foster Drive and street parking on Foster Drive, Booth Street, Hunter Lake Drive, and Idlewild Park Drive. For cyclists, the Truckee Meadows Bike Alliance provides a convenient bike valet service. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enjoy a variety of culinary delights, meet new people, and soak in the community atmosphere at Food Truck Friday in Reno.