The Ultimate Reno Christmas Event Guide 2019

To kick off the Christmas season right, Reno Dads has put together this list of events and activities that includes community Christmas tree lightings, Christmas festivals, Christmas markets and craft fairs, Christmas concerts, Christmas services, and anything else we could dig up going on in our community over the next month. We will be adding to the list as we learn more, so feel free to Contact Us here or on social media if you’d like us to consider adding your event.

This guide is organized as follows:

Part 1: Community Christmas Tree Lightings and Festivals
Park 2: Christmas Markets and Craft Fairs
Part 3: Concerts and Shows
Part 4: Additional Events
Part 5: Religious Services and Events (please reach out to let add your event/service)

Part 1: Community Christmas Tree Lightings and Festivals

Sat, Nov. 23, 5:00-8:00 pm: “Annual Lights Up”, The Summit Reno – South Reno

Be merry. Be bright. Light up your holiday with a spectacular laser light show and Christmas tree lighting with Santa Claus with Lights Up! Please join The Summit Reno for our annual Lights Up event on November 23 at Center Plaza by Vans. There will be live music, a local school choir, a laser light show, Santa’s arrival, and a tree lighting. We look forward to seeing you there!

Fri, Nov. 29, 6:30-9:30 pm: “4th Annual Marnell Holiday Tree Lighting” at the Nugget Casino Resort – Sparks

The Nugget will celebrate the start of the Christmas season in an extravagant way with its annual lighting ceremony

Sat, Nov. 30, 5:00 – 7:30 pm: “11th Annual Tree Lighting at The Outlets at Legends” – Sparks

Kick off the holiday season with the Outlets at Legends 11th Annual Tree Lighting ceremony outside the north doors of SCHEELS. Starting at 6pm bring the family and enjoy a free holiday concert. After the performance, the man in red will make an appearance and officially kick off the holiday season by the lighting of the tree followed by a fantastic fireworks show. Plus the first 250 kids will receive a special gift!

Sat, Nov. 30, 5:30 – 7:30 pm: “Silver & Snowflakes Holiday Tree Lighting,” Nevada State Capitol Building – Carson City

The Annual Silver and Snowflakes Festival of Lights will feature free sleigh rides by Borges Sleigh Rides, Carson City 5th grade music students ensemble performance, state tree lighting: all of Carson St. is lit up, and caroling at downtown Carson City restaurants.
Location: Nevada State Capitol, 101 N Carson Street, Carson City, NV 89701 United States

Thur, Dec. 5, 5:00 pm: “Carson Valley Christmas Kickoff,” Heritage Park Pavilion – Gardnerville

Come early and enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides around the park, beginning at 4:00 pm; Entertainment and treats beginning at 5:30 pm; Lighting of the Town Christmas Tree; Lighting of the Heritage Park Pavilion; The Sierra Ringers (weather permitting); All About Dance kids; Joyful Noise Children’s Choir; Christmas Carolers; Musical Lights Show AND Fireworks (weather permitting)!
Dutch oven cobblers, hot cocoa & spiced cider provided by the Town of Gardnerville and popcorn provided by the Gardnerville Water Co.
Location: Heritage Park, 1447 Courthouse Alley Gardnerville, NV 89410

Fri, Dec. 6, 6:30 – 7:00 pm: “Tree Lighting Ceremony,” Victorian Square – Sparks

Tree Lighting Ceremony: Friday December 6, 2019 6:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Fri, Dec. 6, 6:00 pm: “Christmas Tree Lighting” – Fallon

Come join our community on Maine Street for the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting! Click here for more information.

Fri, Dec. 6, 6:00 pm: “Gazebo Lighting” – Minden

Event kicks off @ 5 pm with music from the DHS Jazz Band & Fire Pits with S’mores. Kids who bring a canned food item or a donation for the Carson Valley Food Closet receive a goodie bag and a chance to help Santa light the Gazebo! Santa arrives at 6 pm to light the Gazebo! A free dance performance and much more!

Fri, Dec. 6, 6:00 pm: “Christmas in Genoa” – Genoa

Every year, Genoans and Visitors come together to celebrate the Christmas holidays. The Genoa Tree — Hope’s Colorado Blue Spruce — donated to the town, is strung with lights and waiting for the perfect time to be lit. Join us on Friday, December 6th for all the fun and food, too!
Christmas Caroling — Meet at the Genoa Community Church, 5:30 p.m.
Genoa Tree Lighting — Follow the carolers to the corner of Main Street and Genoa Lane to see the light at 6:30 p.m.
Cookies & Hot Cocoa— After the lights are lit, warm up with holiday revelers with holiday refreshments and a visit with Genoa residents and friends.
Location: Genoa Community Church, 182 Nixon Genoa, NV 89411

Fri, Dec. 6, 5:00 – 9:00 pm: “Zoo Lights,” Sierra Safari Zoo, – North Valleys

Sierra Safari Zoo will be lighting up the cold winter nights. Come see the beauty of the Zoo lit up for the Holidays. There will special opportunity to have your picture taken with Santa ($5) and kids will get a special holiday cookie to decorate. There will be free hot chocolate and hot cider to sip as you stroll the grounds. Don’t miss this special holiday treat.
Standard admission applies. ($11 for adults, $8 for kids 3 to 12. Kids 2 and under are FREE, $8 for active military/veterans)
Click here for more information

Fri, Dec. 6, 4:30 – 7:00 pm: “Community Holiday Celebration” – Incline Village

Kick off the holiday season with fun and festivities at the annual Community Holiday Celebration at the Chateau. Enjoy crafts for kids, sleigh rides, live music, caroling, Penguin Pete, and Santa & Mrs. Claus. This is a free event; food, beverages, and sleigh rides will be available for purchase. The Championship Golf Shop will be open for holiday shopping as well!
Location: The Chateau at Incline Village – 955 Fairway Blvd., Incline Village, NV

Fri, Dec. 6, 5 pm (Tree Lighting) and Sat Dec. 7 All Day (events): “Christmas on the Comstock,” Bucket of Blood Saloon – Virginia City

This December will have you Believing Again with three-weekends of events and a month-long celebration for the entire family surrounded by a historic Victorian setting. Festivities include a parade, concerts, tours, A Comstock Christmas Carole original production, Father Christmas, carriage rides, Christmas trains, letters to Santa, a Christmas Challenge town-wide activity, a shopping spree worth $1,000 and much more.
It’s a real-life vintage Christmas celebration embracing the slower pace and filled with lights and local shops decorated to the hilt all month long. There’s no place like historic Virginia City for that warm and fuzzy, traditional Christmas vibe. This year the town is going all out, all month long. We’ll have you believing again.
Community official tree lighting at the Bucket of Blood lot, corner of C and Union streets, 5 PM
- Randy Brooks and His Allstar Band, composer of “Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer”, 7 PM
Events/Festival/Faires: December 7: Storey County Senior Center Holiday Craft Fair, 9 AM – 4 PM,
- Saint Mary’s Art Center’s 6th Annual Holiday Faire, 10 AM – 4 PM,
- Storey County Fire Protection District open house tours and treats, 11 AM – 5 PM,
- Storey County Sheriff’s Office Deputies meet and greet, 11 AM – 5 PM,
- Believe Again Weekend and Christmas Challenge, 11 AM – 5 PM,
- Photos with Father Christmas at the Historic Fourth Ward School Museum, 11 AM – 4 PM,
- Sleigh Rides to Santa Claus, 11 AM – 4 PM,
- Letters to Santa writing station at LOCATION, 11 AM – 4 PM,
- Candy Cane Express on the V&T Railroad, 12 PM and 2 PM,
- Virginia City Singers caroling throughout town, 12 – 6 PM,
- David John and the Comstock Cowboys Christmas in the Sierra Concert at Piper’s Opera House, 7 PM
Click here for more information and a calendar of events

Sat, Dec. 7, 10:00 am – 3:30 pm: “33rd Annual Hometowne Christmas Celebration,” Victorian Square – Sparks

Tree Lighting Ceremony: Friday December 6, 2019 6:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Ugly Sweater Run at Scheels/Marina: 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Photos with Santa in the Sparks Heritage Museum (10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m.) Museum info HERE.
Sparks Hometowne Christmas Parade in Victorian Square (1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m.)

Sat, Dec. 7, 12:00 – 8:00 pm: “City of Reno Winter Light Festival and Tree Lighting,” City Plaza – Reno

The Reno Winter Light Festival will kick off with the City of Reno Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 7 at the City Plaza. Come out early for a Makers Faire and check out local artisans and goods. There will also be food and drink options. Tree Lighting Ceremony will start at 5:00 pm. Santa will be on site from 3:00 – 7:00 pm for free photos with the kids!
Saturday, December 7 – Kickoff to Winter Light Festival and City of Reno Tree Lighting
Noon – 8:00 pm: Makers Faire with food, beer, and wine by Wandering Wyld Events at the City Plaza
3:00 – 7:00 pm: Free photos with Santa for the kids
5:00 p.m. we will start the tree lighting festivities with several different entertaining groups such as the Kennelly Irish Dancers, Gospel Choir, Santa’s Christmas Wonderland.
6:00 p.m. Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve along with City of Reno Council Members will start the official countdown of the tree lighting.
6:30 p.m. join us for free ice skating @ The Rink on the Row located at 6th and Sierra Streets
Click here for more information

Sat, Dec. 7, 5:00 – 7:00 pm: “3rd Annual Light Up The Night Community Christmas Event,” Horizon Church – Sparks

Light Up The Night is an event open to all families and individuals in Reno-Sparks. The event was created to usher in the Christmas season and provide a free & fun Christmas event for the Reno/Sparks community. Each year at Light Up The Night Event we have hosted 1000+ guests to usher in the Christmas season! This year’s event is set to be bigger and better than ever!
This exciting Community Christmas Event features:
Free Family Fun, Free Hot Cocoa and Cookies, Free Pictures With Santa!, Free Pony Rides, Food Trucks, Fire Pits & Free S’Mores, Christmas Music and Carols, Free Bounce House, Free Christmas Photo Booth, Free Children’s Activities, Prizes & More
Location: Horizon Church, 2025 East Prater Way, Sparks, NV 89434
Click here for more information

Sat, Dec. 7, 5:00 pm: “23rd Annual Parade of Lights” – Minden

Music and holiday cheer starting in downtown Minden @ 5:00 pm. The 23rd Annual Parade of Lights ends in Minden Park.

Thur – Sat, Dec. 12 – 14: “39 North Pole Village”, Victorian Square – Sparks

A winter wonderland of sparkling lights in downtown Sparks! Victorian Square in downtown Sparks becomes a sparkling winter wonderland with thousands of lights in celebration of the holidays. Stroll through the holiday lights, enjoy photos with Santa, kids activities, decorating contests and vendors. The heated vendor village tent provides guests with a cozy shopping experience as they browse local vendors and crafters. Returning this year is The Griswold Challenge, where local families and businesses compete in a light display contest inspired by the one and only Clark Griswold from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. This is a People’s Choice contest, so people attending the event will determine the winning team.
Times: Dec 12/13 4-9pm, 2019 – Dec 14 2-9pm
Click here for more information

Fri, Dec. 13, 6:00 – 8:00 pm: “Lear Theater Christmas Tree Lighting” – Reno

The Christmas Village’s kick-off to a weekend-long celebration! Come celebrate the season with us. Enjoy coffee, hot chocolate and holiday performers starting at 6pm. Tree lighting at 7pm!
Location: Lear Theater, 528 W 1st St, Reno, Nevada 89503
Click here for more information

Sun, Dec. 15, 12:00 – 4:00 pm: “Operation Camo Christmas 2019,” Greater Nevada Field – Reno

We believe that everyone deserves a Christmas miracle, especially those who put on a uniform to keep us safe. This is our salute to our nation’s heroes. Please join us for our second annual Operation: Camo Christmas on December 15, 2019 from noon to 4 pm! Train rides, arts and crafts, and lets not forget Santa! To get more information, sponsor, or volunteer please email opcamoxmas@gmail.com
Click here for more information

Part 2: Christmas Markets and Craft Fairs

Sat. Nov. 16: “Christmas Market,” Covenant Presbyterian Church – Reno

Mark your calendar and plan to stop by Covenant on Saturday, November 16th for their annual Christmas Market. They are here to help you get into the Christmas Spirit and get a jump start on your Christmas list! Not only will you find great deals on hand-crafted items, homemade baked goods, and gift baskets, but you’ll also feel great knowing you made a difference in the world. 100% of the proceeds from our Mission Market will benefit the Good Shepherd’s Clothes Closet in Reno and Tanneken Fros’ ministry to widows and orphans in Mozambique, Africa. There’s no admission fee and plenty of convenient, free parking.
Times: 16 Saturday at 9 AM – 3 PM
Location: Covenant Presbyterian Church, 6695 Mae Anne Ave, Reno, Nevada 89523
Click here for more information

Sat. – Sun, Nov. 16 – 17: “Handmade for the Holidays,” Red Hawk Golf and Resort – Spanish Springs

4th Annual Holiday craft show featuring handmade items, local artists, crafters and businesses. Over 40 vendors will be here to shop from with a wide array of items! There will be something for everyone at this great holiday event!
They will also be having a raffle to benefit The Reno Initiative for Shelter and Equality. 100% of the raffle proceeds go to this great organization and helping to feed the less fortunate in Reno.
Location: Red Hawk Golf & Resort – Event Center
When: Sat, Nov. 16, 10am-4pm; Sun, Nov. 17th, 2019, 10am-3pm
Click here for more information

Fri – Sun., Nov. 29 – Dec. 1: “20th Annual Kandy Kane Craft Fair” – Minden

They will be open from 9:am until 6:pm Friday and Saturday and from 10:00 until 4:pm on Sunday.
Location: Valley Ballroom, Carson Valley Inn, Minden, NV

Fri – Sun., Nov. 29 – Dec. 1, “Crafts for Christmas,” Nugget Casino Resort – Sparks

The holiday gift marketplace is free to the public! Get into the holiday season and browse more than 100 craft and gift booths at this gift marketplace featuring local and regional vendors. Enjoy live demonstrations, musical performances and visits with Santa. A great alternative to Black Friday shopping! Parking and admission are free.
Click here for more information

Sat. Dec. 7, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm: “23rd Annual Parade of Lights and Craft Faire” – Minden

Prior to the parade, the Craft Faire will be in the CVIC Hall from 10 am – 8 pm.

Fri. – Sun., Dec. 13 – 15, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm: ” Christmas-Village & Toy Drive,” Lear Theater – Reno

The Christmas Village’s kick-off to a weekend-long celebration! Come celebrate the season with us. Enjoy coffee, hot chocolate and holiday performers starting at 6pm. Tree lighting at 7pm!
Location: Lear Theater, 528 W 1st St, Reno, Nevada 89503
Click here for more information
12/14 & 12/15 10am-4pm: Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus – Get complimentary photos. Watch live theater performances in all their holiday glory. Stroll through Vendor Village and get great gifts. Get a peppermint hot chocolate and sit down to lunch with family and friends in our Food Truck alley.

Sat. and Sun., Dec. 14 – 15, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm: “Magic of Santa,” Reno-Sparks Convention Center – Reno

This craft faire has been running for 40 consecutive years and just keeps getting better year after year. Fine Arts and Crafts from over 80 crafters. Support your local small family-owned businesses and find beautiful hand made items from tole painted snowmen and beautiful doll clothes to fine woodwork and handcrafts for yourself and the ones you love.
Enjoy two fabulous days of shopping for only $4.00 admission, Children under 12 are Free. The parking is Free and we’ll take $1.00 off your admission if you bring a can of food.
Raffle Drawings for items donated by the vendors every few minutes!
Show Hours: Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Location: Reno/Sparks Convention Center, 4590 S. Virginia St., Reno Nevada
Click here for more information

Part 3: Concerts and Shows

(Month Long) Nov 26 – Dec 29: “Santa’s Christmas Wonderland – a Dazzling Holiday Spectacular”, Eldorado Showroom – Reno

Start Christmas in style as Santa and his merry helpers take you on an unforgettable and nostalgic Christmas journey. “Santa’s Christmas Wonderland” has been seen by over 5 million people around the world and is the most loved Christmas show of the season. Featuring glittering costumes, sensational sets, a dazzling cast and the highest kicking chorus dancers this side of the North Pole, bring the whole family to sing along to songs like “White Christmas,” “Winter Wonderland,” “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night,” “Rockin’ Around the Tree” and many, many more.
Receive half-off entree at select restaurants at THE ROW with purchase of a full-priced show ticket before or after the show on the performance date.
Showtimes: Shows are Tuesday through Thursday at 7 p.m. and Friday through Sunday at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. In the spirit of the holidays, ticket sales for the Friday, December 13 performance at 8 p.m. will be donated to The Salvation Army.
Ticket Prices: Tickets are on sale now starting at $29.95
Click here for more information and tickets

(Month Long) Nov 26 – Dec 29: “Holiday Dreams” Grand Sierra Resort – Reno

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with a high-energy magical show for the whole family! Holiday Dreams is a unique holiday-themed show with a fresh approach, taking the time-honored elements of the holidays – like the music, decorations, and spirit of Christmas – and mixing them with computer animation and projection mapping, for a modern, up-to-date spin on the classic holiday show.
Dates: Multiple shows: Thursday, December 19, 2019 – January 1, 2020
Times: Matinee shows start 2:00pm, Matinee doors open 12:30pm. Evening shows start 8:00pm, Evening doors open 6:30pm
Location: VenueGrand Theatre, Grand Sierra Resort
Click here for tickets and more information

Fri. Nov. 29 – Sun. Dec. 1: “A Christmas Story – The Musical,” Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts – Reno

From the songwriting team behind the smash-hit Tony Award-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen and the Academy Award-winning film La La Land, A CHRISTMAS STORY THE MUSICAL, brings the classic 1983 movie to hilarious life on stage! Set in 1940s Indiana, a young and bespectacled Ralphie Parker schemes his way toward the holiday gift of his dreams, an official Red Ryder® Carbine-Action 200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle. An infamous leg lamp, outrageous pink bunny pajamas, a maniacal department store Santa, and a triple-dog-dare to lick a freezing flagpole are just a few of the distractions that stand between Ralphie and his Christmas wish. Nominated for three 2013 Tony Awards including Best Musical, the Associated Press calls A CHRISTMAS STORY THE MUSICAL “a joyous Christmas miracle,” while The New York Times writes “I was dazzled. You’d have to have a Grinch-sized heart not to feel a smile spreading across your face.”
Showtimes: Friday, November 29 at 8 p.m., Saturday, November 30 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 8 p.m., and Sunday, December 1 at 1 and 7 p.m.
Ticket Prices: Start at $48 but are selling out fast!
Click here for more information and tickets

Fri. Dec. 6 – Sun. Dec. 8: Spirit of the Season, The Reno Phil, Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts – Reno

Gather the family for a true holiday tradition. The Reno Phil and conductor Jason Altieri invite you to Spirit of the Season, a classic holiday celebration full of orchestral arrangements, jazzy numbers, traditional holiday tunes and carols. Choose from four showtimes wrapped in fantasy and fun for the whole family!
Concert Times: December 6 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 7 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, December 7 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm, December 8 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Ticket Prices: Tickets start at $16 but times are selling out fast!
Click here for more information at tickets

Fri. and Sat. Dec. 6 – 7: “The Peanutcracker – The Story in a Nutshell,” Sierra Nevada Ballet – Pioneer Center for Performing Arts – Reno

The traditional holiday story of Clara, the Nutcracker and seven-headed Rat King, and the Kingdom of Sweets will be brought to the stage in Sierra Nevada Ballet’s PEANUTCRACKER – THE STORY IN A NUTSHELL. Based on Marius Petipa‘s original ballet “The Nutcracker”, PEANUTCRACKER – THE STORY IN A NUTSHELL is a shorter, 45-minute narrated version that is “designed for families with younger children to introduce them to the wonderful world of ballet,” noted Rosine Bena, Artistic Director of the Sierra Nevada Ballet. Bena wrote and choreographed this traditional holiday show and was awarded a 2015 “Challenge America” grant from the National Endowment for the Arts to present this work. After dancing the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy for 25 years, Ms. Bena discovered that “The Nutcracker” was often a child’s first introduction to ballet and the shorter version, complete with its growing Christmas tree and animated storytelling was perfect for very young children.
Showtimes: December 16 @ 10:00 am and 12:00 pm
Ticket Prices: $6-11
Click here for more dates/locations (Carson City) and tickets

Sat. Dec. 7, 3 pm: “Tuba Christmas Concert” Wilbur May Museum, Rancho San Rafael Park – Reno

Immerse yourself in the sounds of the season at the Wilbur D. May Museum’s annual Tuba Christmas Concert! This FREE, family-friendly event features holiday carols arranged in four-part harmony and performed by local tuba, baritone, and euphonium players. The Museum will have festive decorations on display and offer free admission all day long. Hot cocoa, cider, and cookies will also be available for purchase. There are more than 250 Tuba Christmas performances scheduled this year around the world, but this is the only event in Northern Nevada!
Concert Time: Saturday, December 7, 2019, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: The May Museum is inside Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, 1595 N. Sierra Street in Reno.
Click here for more information

Fri. – Sun. Dec. 13 – 15: “The Nutcracker Ballet” A.V.A. Ballet Theatre with the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra, Pioneer Center for Performing Arts – Reno

A.V.A. Ballet Theatre with the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra
The stage at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts will be alive with a sugar plum fairy and dancing mice as A.V.A. Ballet Theatre presents the annual Nutcracker Ballet on December 13, 14 & 15, 2019.
A.V.A. Ballet Theatre’s artistic director Alexander Van Alstyne has choreographed an exciting rendition of the popular holiday ballet and the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra will perform Tchaikovsky’s moving score. Laura Jackson will conduct the orchestra.
Concert Times: Fri, Dec 13, 2019 8:00 PM, Sat, Dec 14, 2019 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM, Sun, Dec 15, 2019 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Ticket Prices: Starting at $25. Hurry, tickets selling fast!
Click here for tickets and more information

Fri. and Sat. Dec. 13 – 14: “Home for the Holidays” Reno Jazz Orchestra, Cargo Concert Hall – Reno

The spirit of Christmas comes to life as the 17-piece Reno Jazz Orchestra presents “Home for the Holidays” December 13 and 14 in Reno, NV. Headlining the 17-piece orchestra this year are world-renowned trombone soloist Bob McChesney and dynamic entertainer and vocalist Calabria Foti.
“This year’s production is a good-old-fashioned tribute to the music that we grew up with here in America,” said Chuck Reider, Music Director. “The whole family will enjoy over two-hours of music and songs that will include The Christmas Song, Let It Snow, White Christmas, and many other classics that will rekindle the magical memories of being home for the holidays.”
Times: Saturday, December 13 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 14 at 2:00 p.m.
Ticket Prices: Tickets are $30 for General Seating, $10 for Students (with I.D.) and can be purchased at RenoJazzOrchestra.org
Location: Cargo Concert Hall, Whitney Peak Hotel, 255 North Virginia St., Reno, NV 89501
Click here for tickets and more information

Tues – Wed. Dec 17 – 18, 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm: “Woodwind Quintet Concert” NorthStar Chamber Players, Washoe County Library – Reno and Sparks

Presented by NorthStar Chamber Players.
The popular woodwind quintet will perform favorite holiday classics. Enjoy selections from “The Nutcracker”, Christmas carols and other seasonal music.
Musicians: Mary Ann Lazzari (flute), Kelsey Edmondson (oboe), Jennifer Day (clarinet), Ben Benson (bassoon), Bruce Kanzelmeyer (horn)
Dates: Tuesday, December 17, 4:00pm (Sparks Library), Tuesday, December 17, 6:00pm (Spanish Springs Library ), Wednesday, December 18, 4:00pm (Auditorium, Downtown Reno Library), Wednesday, December 18, 6:00pm (South Valleys Library)

Part 4: Additional Events & Activities

Christmas in Reno Ice Skating — Christmas in Reno – Ice Skating at THE ROW

(Month Long) Nov – Dec: “Rink at THE ROW” – Downtown Reno

Dashing through Downtown Reno this winter will be hundreds of ice skaters as “Rink at THE ROW” makes its glistening debut across from the Circus Circus Reno, on the corner of Sierra and 6th Street.
Surrounded by the vibrant lights of Eldorado, Circus Circus and Silver Legacy, Rink at THE ROW is scheduled to open November 18. Rink at THE ROW is the next chapter for the ice rink that has moved from City Plaza to Greater Nevada Field to its now permanent home on Sierra Street, but through all of its transitions, one thing has remained true, and that’s that northern Nevada and its visitors love the winter season tradition.
Hours: Operating hours are Monday through Thursday, 3 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 12 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Hours are subject to change and may vary based on special events, holidays, weather or other factors.
Prices: Pricing includes skate rental and will start at $12 for children up to 12 and adults $15, Monday through Thursday, and $15 for children and $18 for adults, Friday through Sunday. Discounts are available for seniors, military and college students. Guests who bring their own ice skates will save $2. Rink at THE ROW will also have skating aids available to rent.

(Month Long) Nov – Dec: “Polar Express Train Ride”, V&T Railway – Carson City

During the holiday season, characters, entertainment and Santa bring the Polar Express story to life, with a souvenir silver sleigh bell, hot chocolate and a cookie to remember the journey. The one-hour long rides are fun for the whole family. VIP parlor car tickets also available!
Dates: Throughout November and December
Prices: Start at $17 for kids and $26 for adults; VIP tickets available. Tickets sell out every year, don’t wait.
Click here for tickets and more information
See the Reno Dads Review of the Polar Express Train Ride

(Month Long) Nov – Dec: “V&T Candy Cane Express”, V&T Railway – Virginia City

If the kiddies, and grandma have been good all year (okay, most of the year)… add a little magic to the season and bring them to Virginia City to ride the V&T Candy Cane Express. Steeped in holiday spirit, this whimsical train has become a cherished local tradition for families of all ages.
On the scenic 50-minute journey over the 140-year old V&T railroad route, you will enjoy hot cocoa or cider, candy canes & cookies, and sing-a-long carols on the festively decorated train. Listen to a reading of the 1823 classic “T’was the Night Before Christmas”, and watch little faces light up while riding through the enchanting Candy Cane tunnel. You may even see wild horses along the way! Whether the V&T Candy Cane Express is a new experience or one you’ve cherished over the years, it’s a magical event you and your family will never forget.
Dates: Nov 29, 30 and Dec 7, 8; 14, 15, 2019.
Prices: Start at $12 for kids and $23 for adults
Location: Virginia & Truckee Railroad Depot, 165 F Street, Virginia City, Nevada.
Reservations are recommended, so be sure to book early. Reserve your tickets online. Tickets are also available for purchase at the event location.

(Month Long) Nov – Dec: “Santa Train,” Nevada State Railroad Museum – Carson City

Take a ride on the Santa Train featuring historic equipment from the Virginia & Truckee Railroad. Visit with Santa Claus and receive a candy cane aboard the train. Write a letter to Santa at the “Letters to Santa” table. …and much more!
Dates: December 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Trains run every 30 minutes
Prices: $5.00 per person, children 2 and under sitting on a lap are FREE
*Please note: A limited amount of tickets will be available for purchase online for each weekend. Online ticket sales close 24 hours before departure. As always, walk up tickets will be available for purchase for each train. Once purchased online you will still need to pick up your tickets at Will-Call located inside the depot building. Please note “Boarding Time” is fifteen (15) minutes before “Departure Time”.
Click here for more information and tickets

(Month Long) Dec: “Winter Fest,” Greater Nevada Field – Reno

WinterFest is Reno’s Largest Holiday Event that is perfect for the entire family!
Adults and Children can ride the Holiday Express Train, a custom narrated journey around the inside of the Stadium, taking you on a mission from Reno to the North Pole to deliver Santa’s Naughty and Nice list.
New this year, take a walk through over 500,00 Christmas lights for you and your family to enjoy
anta appears in Santa’s Village for Photo’s where the whole family can take pictures and capture your memories with a souvenir photo.
Enjoy the activities tent with games, Christmas movies, bounce houses, write letters to Santa and grab a hot chocolate and snacks.
Holiday Express Train and Santa Hours: Friday and Saturdays: 5pm-9pm Sundays: 4pm-7pm December 22nd, 23rd and 24th 4pm-7pm
Train Pricing: $10 per person Activities tent $5 per child
Click here for more information.

Sat. Dec. 7: “11th Annual Gingerbread House Competition” (Deadline to Register)

This annual tradition is back, so don’t wait – get out your paper and pen and begin sketching the wildest, fanciest gingerbread creation ever!
Entry Deadline: Monday, December 9th
Entry Fee: $10.00
Click here for more information, dates, and rules

Sun. Dec. 8: “2019 Reno Toy Run,” Reno Harley-Davidson

The 39th Annual Reno Toy Run. Buy a ticket, bring a toy and know that together we make a real difference in N. Nevada and Eastern Sierras. Presale tickets start the Day after Thanksgiving at Reno H-D
To assist families and children in the N. Nevada Community. This last year we donated over $15,000 from the Reno Toy Run to Charities that include Reno Family Shelter, Children’s Cabinet, Kids & Horses Therapeutic Riding Center, Kid’s Cottage, Washoe County Foster Care, MDA Kid’s Camp, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, Camp LotsAFun, Nor. Nev. Children’s Cancer Foundation, Veteran’s Guest House, Autism Coalition of Nevada and the Salvation Army.
Location: Reno Harley-Davidson, 2315 Market St, Reno, Nevada 89502
Click here for more information

Fri – Sun. Dec. 13 – 15: “Homestead Holidays,” Silver Saddle Ranch – Carson City

Take a step back in time at Silver Saddle Ranch for a Homestead Holidays celebration. Presented by Carson City Parks, Recreation & Open Space, Homestead Holidays will feature music, food, lights, crafts, Santa, carriage rides and more!
Dates/Times: December 13-15, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Location: Silver Saddle Ranch, 4901 Carson River Road, Carson City, NV 89701

Sat. Dec. 14: “Damonte Ranch Circle of Lights” – Damonte Ranch Park – South Reno

Come visit Damonte Ranch Park in South Reno on the afternoon of December 14th to see the Christmas lights on many of the houses bordering the 3 mile round walking path around the wetlands. Food trucks and entertainment makes the evening enjoyable for the whole family.
Click here for more information

Sat. Dec. 14: “11th Annual Gingerbread Festival” Wilbur May Museum, Rancho San Rafael Park – Reno

This is a holly, jolly fun event for those young and old. Listen and sing along with local choral groups and musicians to get into the holiday spirit. Enjoy a unique display of gingerbread houses and other creations and vote for your favorite as “People’s Choice.
Visit with Santa Claus and share your holiday wishes!
Children may create their own gingerbread house to take home ($5.00 fee).
Unique holiday gifts and holiday fairy garden accessories will be available on Wilbur’s Garden Cart.
Location: May Museum, Rancho San Rafael Park
Time: 12:00pm to 4:00pm
Admission is free and open to the public
Click here for more information

Thur. Dec. 26: “KTMB’s Christmas Tree Recycling” – Reno

Bring your tree to one of our 6 locations within the community so that we can give it a new life!
Since 2003, more than 159,000 trees have been recycled through KTMB’s Christmas Tree Recycling program thanks to the help of thousands of volunteers and our many partners. KTMB’s Christmas Tree Recycling Program provides community residents with an easy alternative to dumping trees in the landfill or- as is sometimes seen- in the open spaces. Trees are chipped into mulch that is used for park and weed abatement projects and is available for free to area residents at the Bartley Ranch and Rancho San Rafael drop-off sites. We partner with Washoe County Parks and Open Spaces, City of Reno, City of Sparks, and Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District on this program to ensure that trees are kept out of our open spaces, reducing the risk of fire in the summer months.
Times: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Locations: Bartley Ranch Regional Park, 6000 Bartley Ranch Rd, Reno, NV 89511 // Reno Sports Complex at Rancho San Rafael – 2975 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89506 // Shadow Mountain Sports Complex – 2975 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89506 // Various Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District Stations (details to come)

Part 5: Religious Events

We will be adding more events as local churches post their events, masses, and services. Please let us know to add your church events!

Sat. – Sun. Dec 14 – 15, 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm: “The Road to Bethlehem Living Nativity” First United Methodist Church – Carson City

Come experience the Christmas Story unfold as you drive or walk the path. Join us for a live re-enactment with actors and animals. The re-enactment will happen from Carson Street turn west on 5th St, north on Division to King St.
Free to attend and watch, non-perishable food will be accepted.
Times: December 14 @ 6:30 pm – December 15 @ 8:00 pm Free
Location: First United Methodist Church, 200 N. Division St., Carson City, NV 89703

Sat. Dec 14, 7:00pm to 8:30 pm: “Taste of Christmas” Hope Community Church – Reno

This is a FREE event! Invite your friends and family out to enjoy an evening with popcorn, hot chocolate and desserts!
Location: Hope Community, 755 Trademark Dr, Reno, Nevada 89521
Tickets and More Information

Mon. Dec 23, 5:00 pm and 7:00pm: “Celebrate Christmas” Life Church – Reno

We’d love for you to join us this Christmas for a special time of worship and celebration as we honor the birth of Jesus Christ.
Times: Services will be held at 5:00pm and 7:00pm on Monday, December 23rd
Location: South Reno Baptist Church, 6780 S McCarran Blvd, Reno, NV 89509

Mon. – Tues. Dec 23 and 24: “Christmas Eve Services” Hope Community – South Reno

Come Celebrate Christmas with us! We’ve got candles (and glow stick for kids!) amazing music, cookies & hot chocolate, a short Christmas message and tons of cheer!
Everyone is invited for this wonderful time! We are having 3 identical services.
Childcare provided for birth through kindergarten.
Hope Community is a church were there are “no perfect people allowed.” That means you can feel comfortable to come as you are!
Times: Services will be held at 6:00pm on Mon. Dec 23 with two services at 4:00pm and 5:30pm on Tues, December 24.
Location: Hope Community, 755 Trademark Dr, Reno, Nevada 89521

Tues. Dec. 24. 3:00 and 3:30 pm: “Christmas Eve Candlelight Services,” The Bridge Church – Reno and Spanish Springs

Service will include Christmas carols, a special message from Pastor Bill West, and traditional candle lighting. Services are for the whole family, so childcare will not be provided. Be sure to invite a friend!
Times and Locations: 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm (1330 Foster Drive, Reno, NV 89509) and 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm (150 Isidor Ct., Ste. 102, Spanish Springs, NV 89441)
Click here for more information

Tues. Dec. 24. 4:00 pm: “Christmas Eve Mass” Carmelite Monastery – Reno

People from the surrounding area often join us in the chapel for morning and evening prayer. It is one way we share our Carmelite prayer tradition with the wider community.
We are blessed to have a lovely chapel with spectacular views of the city and the valley beneath us. It is an architectural expression of our openness to the world and our vocation to be a place of prayer for and with that world. Following morning prayer we have Mass in our chapel. On those occasions when we do not have a priest, we have a Communion Service.
Location: Carmelite Monastery, 1950 La Fond Drive, Reno, NV 89502 United States
Click here for more information

Tues. Dec. 24. 7:00 pm: “Christmas Eve Candlelight Service” South Reno Baptist Church – Reno

Location: South Reno Baptist Church, 6780 South McCarran Blvd.
Reno, NV 89509
Click here for more information