Courtesy of Pixabay. When it comes to autumn, there are plenty of activities going on in Reno that can help one appreciate the beauty of the season.
As colorful patterns of hot-air balloons grace the Nevada sky during September’s Great Reno Balloon Race, most might feel as if the popular community gathering is the perfect transition from the end of summer to the beginning of fall.
The summer heat of Reno calming down creates an eagerness for elements of fall many of us missed since last year. Leaves evolve into warm colors, the smell of pumpkin-scented candles fill our noses and “sweater weather” starts. Some may be stoked to choose their own unique pumpkin ideal for their carving project, or to scurry along the corn maze with family and friends. In addition to other essential fall experiences, such as apple-picking and Halloween parties, there are plenty of fall events the people of Reno can enjoy that are noteworthy. Here are some substantial events that are coming up this fall to keep your family and friends engaged with all that the city of Reno has to offer.
1. Eldorado Great Italian Festival
Marking its 37th year, the Eldorado Great Italian Festival honors all aspects of Italian culture in a weekend-long celebration jam-packed with authentic food, live entertainment and an insight into other Italian traditions. The Great Italian Festival Sauce Cook-Off involves Italian families throughout the West Coast bringing their special recipes for participants to taste test and vote for their favorite sauce. Other well-received events coming back this year include the grape stomp, wine walk and a gelato eating contest. Make sure to stop by and check out the excitement in Downtown Reno on Saturday, Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2. Reno Lantern Festival
Anyone who has watched Disney’s “Tangled” was most likely in awe of the magical lantern scene that went along with the ballad, “I See The Light.” Well, if anyone has ever thought about recreating that particular scene, then the Reno Lantern Festival can make all those wishes into a reality. On the weekend of Oct. 13-14, the Wild West Motorsports Park will transform into a bright and illuminating night sky. Starting at 2:30 p.m. until sundown, there will be food, live music and many other entertaining activities that involve face-painting and balloon artists. After sundown, everyone will release their lanterns and enjoy the beautiful scenery around them. If interested in this unforgettable experience, it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance for a better deal.
3. The Book of Mormon at The Pioneer Center for Performing Arts
Continuing the recent success of bringing widely renowned musicals to Reno — such as the showing of “Legally Blonde” during August of this year — this fall will bring yet another popular show for those who haven’t seen it on Broadway. Coming to The Pioneer Center for Performing Arts Oct. 9 through Oct. 14, “The Book of Mormon” is a musical comedy that showcases two Mormon missionaries who travel to Uganda in order to preach to people there about the Mormon religion. The nine-time Tony Award-winning production has garnered many positive responses from critics, ever since it debuted on Broadway during March 2011. From the minds of Matt Stone and Trey Parker — creators of South Park — it should be a guaranteed laugh for all and a fun-filled evening for a group of friends to cherish in the theater.
The incredible fall atmosphere in Reno allows for a plethora of things to do. From local festivals to shows, the list is never-ending. Appreciating the cold, but not-so-cold weather and the autumn colors all around us calls for spending time in nature through hikes and runs with friends. Not only is it a great way to get active, but it’s a wonderful way to experience the true essence of fall here in Reno. With all of these different activities in this community, you just can’t go wrong. To the people of Reno: get ready for a jam-packed fall filled with the all-encompassing experiences that this city is all about not only this season, but every season.