Explore all the lively events in Reno-Sparks the month of September, from a cultural Numaga Indian Powwow and breathtaking balloon races to eccentric camel and zebra races, engaging theater, and serene lantern ceremonies. Delight in a spectrum of experiences that capture the essence of the area, promising unforgettable memories for families, friends, and all who seek diverse and enriching entertainment.
Numaga Indian Days Powwow
- When: Friday, September 1 – Sunday, September 3, 2023
- Where: Hungry Valley Reservation, Eagle Canyon Dr, Sparks to Powwow Grounds access road
Named for Chief Numaga, the Paiute Chief known for peace, the Numaga Indian Days Powwow is a great way to learn about the local Native American Paiute tribe. Sounds of drums will fill the air with hundreds of dancers dressed in styles such as Northern and Southern Traditional Fancy Dance, Grass Dance, Chicken Dance, and more. In between dances try your hand at a traditional gambling game – a guessing game involving animal bones and sticks. And if you’ve never had the pleasure of eating deliciousness that is fry bread, this is your chance, you won’t want to miss this culinary delight!
The Great Reno Balloon Race
- When: Friday, September 8 – Sunday, September 10, 2023
- Where: Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, 1595 N. Sierra St., Reno
The Great Reno Balloon Race soars into Reno for its 41st year with 80+ colorful hot-air balloons. Although it is an early morning event there’s no doubt that the Super Glow Show and Dawn Patrol are worth waking up before the sun rises - it’s mesmerizing to watch these special balloons light up the morning darkness. And as the sun begins to rise so do the balloons during Mass Ascension, dotting the northern Nevada sky with their beauty. Walk Balloon Boulevard for crafts, souvenirs, food and hot drinks – perfect for an early chilly September morning.
International Camel & Ostrich Races
- When: Friday, September 8 – Sunday, September 10, 2023
- Where: Virginia City Fairgrounds, 458 F St., Virginia City
A 60-year-old prank is how this odd and outlandish yet hilarious event started. It’s what memories are made of for the whole family. There are showtimes throughout the three-day event which includes jockeys, both professional and amateur racing their camels, ostriches and zebras around a track. Camel rides and photo-ops will be available as well as a midway with vendors and treats for everyone.
Downtown Tuesdays
- When: Tuesday, September 12, 2023
- Where: Partnership Plaza, 40 E. 4th, Reno
“When you’re alone, and life is making you lonely you can always go downtown” – Petula Clark
Even if you’re not feeling lonely, Downtown Tuesdays is a great way to enjoy a late summer evening. On Tuesday, September 12th you’ll enjoy listening to music by Kat Heart and eating up delicious noms & drinks from Kona Ice, The Tap Wagon, Flutes on Tap, Bite me Food Truck, and Bone Appetit Bar-B-Que Grill. This event is free and runs from 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Sleep Tight Little Garden
- When: Saturday, September 16, 2023
- Where: Urban Roots, 1700 E. 2nd, Reno
Gardeners know all the dirt! But just in case you’re a gardener who doesn’t (or maybe you’re new to the area)…in northern Nevada it’s the time of year to start putting your garden to rest for the winter. Join Urban Roots from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and they’ll give you the 411 on how to clean up your garden, what to add to the soil, and how to process the plants coming out of the ground.
A Facility for Living by Katie Forgette
- When: Friday, September 22 – Sunday, October 15, 2023
- Where: Reno Little Theater, 147 E. Pueblo St., Reno
Join the Reno Little Theater for their 89th Mainstage Season starting with a delightful comedy confronting the issues of again in America. Watch Joe Taylor, a retired actor move into a prison-turned-elder-care facility. Why is he there? It’s after the demise of Medicare and the election of Dick Cheney for President. Intrigued? Tickets go on sale September 1, 2023.
Genoa Candy Dance Arts & Crafts Faire
- When: Saturday, September 23 – Sunday, September 24, 2023
- Where: Downtown Genoa
In 1919, the town of Genoa sought street lights and the town's ladies organized the inaugural Genoa Candy Dance and Dinner to fundraise. Fast forward to 2023, and the tradition lives on as the Genoa Candy Dance Arts & Crafts Faire, still supporting the community. Take a day to relish this historic town and the faire, featuring 300+ arts and crafts vendors, activities, and food stalls.
Legends of Beer Festival
- When: Saturday, September 23, 2023
- Where: The Outlets at Legends, 1310 Scheels Dr., Sparks
You’ll be hoptimistic about the weekend when you sign up for this one-of-a-kind festival at The Outlets at Legends! The fest starts with a “beer-mile” – grab your three best beer buds for the relay competition – drink one mystery beer, run a ¼ mile, and make your handoff. Following the relay race there will be over 30 local and regional craft breweries available for tastings including additional cocktails, ciders, seltzers, and liquor samples to try. There are several ways to enjoy the event, get your tickets here. Cheers to beers!
Andelin Family Farm Fall Festival
- When: Wednesdays – Saturdays, September 23 – October 28, 2023
- Where: Andelin Family Farm, 8100 Pyramid Wy., Sparks
Everyone’s favorite Fall Festival is back at Andelin Family Farm! The farm brings you everything fall from the pumpkin patch to the corn maze, from Zombie Paintball to spooky scary Corn Creepers. This is the ultimate family event which also includes hayrides, farm animals, pony & horse rides, and the cutest Farm Store with unique gifts, crafts, farm apparel, and more. The events are very popular so be sure to purchase your tickets early!
Battle, Axe & Tracks Music Festival
- When: Friday, September 29 – Sunday, October 1, 2023
- Where: Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, 1595 N. Sierra St., Reno
With only 4,000 tickets available this will be one of the most intimate multi-day music festivals you can attend in the area. BAT hosts two stages with 16 of the best emerging and established rock and blues musicians in the scene. This live event also includes an Axe Battle – 10 guitarists going head-to-head to win the coveted performance slot on Sunday, October 1st. You may bring low-back chairs & blankets and there’ll be axe throwing, lawn games, food, and drink available.
Water Lantern Festival
- When: Saturday, September 30, 2023
- Where: Sparks Marina, 300 Howard Dr., Sparks
Bring your family and friends to enjoy this memorable experience together. By placing your lantern in the water, it opens up the possibility of bringing hope, love, happiness, healing, and peace to your life and others. Seeing the beauty of thousands of lanterns reflecting on the water will be sure to be one of the most indelible experiences of your year.
