With so many Sparks and Reno events taking place in February, it’s clear that more than just love is in the air!
From art classes at the Nevada Museum of Art and events to celebrate Valentine’s Day, there are plenty of Sparks and Reno events in February events to love.
Then, there are events that have nothing to do with the “L” word at all—such as gardening classes, a first-person astronaut experience, and performances straight from Broadway. Keep reading to learn more!
Sparks and Reno events in February
Be the Astronaut Exhibit
- When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. ongoing as of Tuesday, February 1, 2022
- Where: National Automobile Museum, 10 S. Lake St., Reno
- More information
Be the Astronaut is a first-person experience for all ages that teaches science and engineering content via a fusion of physical exhibits, video game technology, simulators, and NASA reconnaissance data.
Sweet: A Tasty Journey
- When: February 1, 2022–May 15, 2022
- Where: Wilbur D. May Museum, 1595 N. Sierra St., Reno
- More information
Interactive exhibition “Sweet” will take you on a journey through the history and manufacturing of candy, chocolate, and other treats. Learn about candies of the past, and explore cultures around the world through their candy.
Hardware Museum Exhibit
- When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. ongoing as of Tuesday, February 1, 2022
- Where: National Automobile Museum, 10 S. Lake St., Reno
- More information
- Echert & Co. features the story of the evolution of auto repair tools. Henry Ford describes the success of his universal car, the Model T Ford, along with advances in tools that kept them on the road. The success of the automobile can be attributed to many clever and creative mechanics and engineers.
Gardening in Nevada: The Bartley Ranch Series
- When: 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays, February 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2022
- Where: Bartley Ranch Regional Park, 6000 Bartley Ranch Road in Reno
- More information
These classes, offered in partnership with Washoe County Regional Parks and Open Space, are free.
- February 1: Fruit Tree Selection: Extension Master Gardener and retired certified arborist Michael Janik will discuss fruit tree needs in Northern Nevada, including soil, USDA zones, chill hours, watering, and pest control.
- February 8: Starting Plants From Seeds: Washoe County Master Gardener Coordinator Rachel McClure will discuss seed starting journeys for early and late-season seed starting.
- February 15: Downsizing Your Landscape: Extension Master Gardener Rod Haulenbeek will help guide attendees on the next steps of their gardening journeys.
- February 22: Moon Folklore and Gardening: Extension Master Gardeners Shari Elena Quinn and Linda Fulton will discuss moon terminology, descriptions of each monthly moon, how the moons got their names, and folklore beliefs related to the best times for planting and harvesting.
Life Drawing: Open Studio
- When: 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, February 2, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Adults 18 and older can improve their life drawing skills and explore a variety of media while working freely from a nude model in this popular open studio class. The instructor will be present to coordinate class and offer instruction upon request. Both male and female models will be posed and drawn.
Virtual Art Discussion: Picasso in Clay
- When: 4-5 p.m. Thursday, February 3, 2022
- Where: Virtual
- More information
Virtual Art Discussion about Picasso in Clay: Selections from the Robert Felton and Lindsay Wallis Collection will be led by an experienced docent. This program is hosted on Zoom. A link to join the program will be emailed to registered participants. Please have Zoom downloaded with audio and video features turned on.
NV Steam 2022 Constructing Creativity
- When: Thursday, February 3, 2022–Saturday, February 5, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Hosting more than 600 educators from across the Silver State, the NV STEAM Conference is the leading statewide event for exploring ideas and strategies that incorporate Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math into pioneering classroom practices that foster student creativity. The theme of the 2022 NV STEAM Conference is Constructing Creativity. The Conference will be presented virtually, beginning with an opening/keynote at 4 p.m. Wednesday, February 2.
Valentine’s Day Pop-Up Art Class
- When: 4 p.m. Thursday, February 3, 2022
- Where: Lake Mansion’s Art Happens Here! Classroom, 250 Court St., Reno
- More information
Learn how to make a handcrafted 5″ x 7″ card that pops up when opened. All supplies are included. Recommended age 8 or older.
‘A Doll’s House, Part 2’
- When: 7:30 p.m. February 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19; 2 p.m. February 6, 2022. Doors open a half an hour before curtain time.
- Where: Brüka Theatre, 99 N. Virginia St., Reno
- More information
Brüka Theatre presents “A Doll’s House, Part 2,” written by Lucas Hnath, and continues the theatre’s “back after the Covid Shutdown” play-by-play season.
The play begins with a knock on the door — the same door slammed shut in the final scene of Ibsen’s 1879 groundbreaking masterwork. Nora Helmer made the shocking decision to leave her husband and children and begin a life independently. This climactic event—when Nora slams the door on everything in her life—instantly propelled world drama into the modern age. Many years have passed in A Doll’s House, Part 2, since Nora’s exit. Now, there’s a knock on that same door. Nora has returned after 15 years. But why? And what will it mean for those she left behind?
‘Waitress’
- When: 8 p.m. February 4-5, 2 p.m. February 5, and 1 and 7 p.m. February 6, 2022
- Where: Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, 100 S. Virginia St., Reno
- More information
Waitress tells the story of Jenna, a waitress and expert pie maker stuck in a small town and a loveless marriage. When a baking contest in a nearby county offers her a chance at escape, Jenna fights to reclaim a long-forgotten part of herself. Through the support of her fellow waitresses and an unexpected romance, Jenna begins to find the courage to take a long-abandoned dream off the shelf. Waitress celebrates the power of friendship, dreams, the family we choose, and the beauty of a well-baked pie.
Nurturing Your Newborn Class
- When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, February 6, 2022
- Where: Renown’s Columbia Conference Room, 850 Harvard Way, Reno
- More information
This two-in-one class includes the Newborn Care Class and Breastfeeding Basics and Beyond. All attendees must wear an appropriate face mask for the class duration. To attend, register using the expecting mother’s name and information.
Come in from the Cold Family Entertainment Series: Reno Swing Set
- When: 7-9 p.m. February 5, 12, 20 and 27, 2022
- Where: Western Heritage Interpretive Center, Bartley Ranch Regional Park, 6000 Bartley Ranch Road, Reno
- More information
Featuring a variety of performers throughout the series in the warm and cozy Western Heritage Interpretive Center, it’s sure to be a hit with the entire family. February 5: Reno Swing Set; February 12: Chris Wessel Jazz; February 20: Sierra Sweet Hearts; February 27: Sierra Silver Springs. Seating is limited. A $3 per person donation is requested at the door.
Heart to Heart Yoga
- When: 10-11 a.m. Monday, February 7, 2022
- Where: Virtual
- More information
Renown Spiritual Center offers free weekly virtual yoga classes. Discover the benefits of yoga, such as improved mobility, balance, strength, and mood, with modified movements for all abilities. Submit the registration/consent form online; once you register, the Zoom link will be emailed each Friday before class.
Cancer Caregiver Virtual Support Group
- When: 10-11:30 a.m. Wednesday, February 9, 2022
- Where: Virtual
- More information
This support group is designed to provide support, education, networking, and resource materials to caregivers who are coping with a loved one who has been diagnosed with cancer. Upon registering, you will receive instructions on virtually connecting from any video-enabled device.
The Beautiful Clouds
- When: 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, February 10 or 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, February 24, 2022
- Where: Lake Mansion’s Garden Pavilion, 250 Court St., Reno
- More information
Receive one-on-one creative guidance to paint a 16″ x 20″ canvas painting; for all levels of artistic talent. All supplies included. Masks are required to attend this class.
Art Afternoon: Workshop and Social for Seniors
- When: 1-3 p.m. Friday, February 11, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art’s E.L. Cord Museum School, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Seniors can take a guided tour and a studio art class. Monthly tours and projects are designed for participants of all experience levels and offer an engaging and interactive experience. These monthly sessions are held on the second Friday of each month. Advanced registration is required, and space is limited.
Cupid’s Undie Run Reno
- When: Noon-4 p.m. Saturday, February 12, 2022
- Where: Wonder Aleworks, 1041 S. Virginia St., Reno
- More information
Every February, thousands of undie runners in cities across the U.S. come together to support those affected by NF, a genetic disorder that affects one in every 3,000 births. Cupid’s Undie Run kicks off with drinking and dancing, then we jog it out with a mile(ish) run and end it with a dance party.
All Americans: Copland & Price Classix Series
- When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, February 12 and 4 p.m. Sunday, February 13, 2022
- Where: Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, 100 S. Virginia St., Reno
- More information
This concert celebrates folk melodies with works by Aaron Copland and Florence Price. The program will feature a world premiere by composer Monica Houghton, which she describes as a “love letter to the Great Basin.”
The Art of Collage
- When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, February 13, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
In this class, students will learn about collage aesthetics, melding the ideas of reality and fiction as the instructor guides them through creating their pieces using everyday materials. The class is for ages 15 and older.
Reno Run 4 Love
- When: 9 a.m. Sunday, February 13, 2022
- Where: Reno Ballroom, 401 N. Center St., Reno
- More information
This 4-mile run goes through the heart of Reno. There will be a post-race celebration inside the Reno Ballroom following the run.
Rose B. Simpson on Transformance: Film Screening and Dialogue (Virtual)
- When: 4-5 p.m. Thursday, February 17, 2022
- Where: Virtual
- More information
This is the premier viewing of the ‘Transformance,’ a short film documenting artist Rose B. Simpson’s residency at Nuwu Art + Activism Studios, as well as the live performance. Simson will dialogue with collaborator and artist Fawn Douglas and filmmaker Ben-Alex Dupris. This is a virtual program hosted on Zoom. Pre-registration is required.
Dementia Caregivers Virtual Support Group
- When: 1:30-3:30 p.m. Friday, February 18, 2022
- Where: Virtual
- More information
Support groups create a private, safe and supportive environment (or community) and allow participants to develop informal mutual support and social relationships. Family Caregiver Support Groups are not intended for the person with the diagnosis. Once you complete registration, you will receive an email confirmation with the call-in information.
The LBJs of the Bird World
- When: 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, February 19, 2022
- Where: Galena Creek Visitor Center, 18250 Mount Rose Hwy, Reno
- More information
Bird talk hosted by the Lahontan Audubon Society.
Box Making: Hatch-top Box
- When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, February 19, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art160 W. Liberty St.Reno
- More information
Expanding on primary decorative boxes skills, students will learn more complex functions by adding a hatch-top and bottom drawer. This particular structure also features rounded corners. Everyone will leave with a multi-purpose box ready to use with its rounded corners, top compartment under the hatch lid, and fabric covering. All levels; adults 15 and older.
Sensory Play in Paint for Babies
- When: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Sunday, February 20, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Witness your child’s first painting with no mess at home for ages 6 months to 3 years. Finger painting is wonderful for developing color recognition, experimentation, and color mixing and is terrific for developing creativity. Messy play for babies and toddlers is crucial to healthy sensory development. Bring a change of clothes/diaper and a towel.
Max Case plays the Music of The Beatles
- When: 7 p.m. Sunday, February 20, 2022
- Where: Reno Little Theater, 147 E. Pueblo St., Reno
- More information
Max Case is w-versed in many musical styles, playing in bands and ensembles that cover everything from R&B, funk, and blues – to jazz, classical, and rock. He plays in the UNR Lab I Big Band and performs with the Reno Jazz Syndicate and the Reno Jazz Orchestra.
Gentle Chair Yoga with Lee Ann Maynard
- When: 4-5 p.m. Wednesday, February 23, 2022
- Where: Renown or Virtual
- More information
This class is held virtual or in-person (limited space) and is perfect for those with limited mobility due to injury, recovery from surgery, arthritis, general stiffness, and more. No yoga experience is necessary. Students will only need a stable chair (no wheels or armrests) if practicing from home. Chairs are provided for in-person attendees. RSVP required. Choose from in-person or virtual.
Haunted Ghost Tour at the Gold Hill Hotel
- When: 5 or 6:30 p.m. Thursday, February 24, 2022
- Where: Gold Hill Hotel, 1540 S. Main St., Virginia City
- More information
The Gold Hill Hotel offers Historical Ghost Tours, which benefit The Comstock Foundation for History and Culture. The evening will start with dinner in the Crown Point restaurant. After dinner, NNGH will guide you back in time with tales of the hotel's history and hauntings and the surrounding area, known as Slippery Gulch. Using ghost hunting tools and techniques, you can try to contact the spirits still in residence at the hotel.
Disney Princess: The Concert
- When: 7 p.m. Friday, February 25, 2022
- Where: Grand Sierra Resort, 2500 E. 2nd St.Reno
- More information
Bring the family to the Grand Theatre and listen to your favorite Disney Princesses performing their hits. Now, experience that music in Disney Princess: The Concert. Be our guest as an all-star quartet of Broadway and animated film icons celebrate all the Disney Princesses in an evening of songs, animation, and stories. Doors open at 6 p.m.
Painting Intensive: The Portrait in Oil or Acrylic
- When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, February 26, 2022–Sunday, February 27, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Students will be introduced to portrait painting techniques in this weekend intensive class and learn how to use a two-color palette, value scales, keying a painting, and use both line and mass to create a portrait. Students may use acrylic or oil paint. Ages 15 and older.
