Weekend Warrior: August 2025

One of my all-time favorite summer blowouts is rolling back into town—Hot August Nights is revved up and ready to roar! This iconic celebration isn’t just about classic cars and rockin’ tunes (though there’s plenty of both!)—it’s a full-throttle week of fun across Northern Nevada. Picture cruising through street fairs, chowing down on festival eats, browsing cool vendor booths, and dancing your way through free concerts all week long. Here’s a snapshot of the star-studded lineup of musicians making their way to the Hot August Night stages:

Imagine Shakespeare under the stars, but make it Tahoe‑style.. toes in the sand, a sunset over the lake, a glass of wine in hand, and world-class theater on the stage. This year’s unforgettable Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival at the iconic Sand Harbor Amphitheater brings us two memorable mainstage productions backed by pine‑framed panoramic views. Here they are:

A shipwreck throws lives into disarray in Twelfth Night, where mistaken identities lead to hilarious havoc and unexpected connections. Viola, stranded and disguised as a boy, falls for the Duke, who pines for Olivia. However, Olivia, in mourning, finds herself smitten with Viola, setting off a comical chain of romantic entanglements. This delightful gem brims with wit, wordplay, and whimsy to tell a timeless tale of love, loss, and the joyous absurdity of life.

On alternate nights, set sail to explore the Neverland you never knew with Peter and the Star Catcher, a Tony Award-winning prequel that charts a course through Peter’s untold escapades. A dozen actors portray over 100 unforgettable characters in this high-flying adventure bursting with imagination and ingenious stagecraft. It is a humorous, heartwarming ride through ambition, yearning, and the magic of friendship, where you will discover the boy who never grew up before he took flight.

Learn more about these two excellent productions and the remaining Monday night showcase musical performances that still have limited seats available. Purchase tickets in advance at LakeTahoeShakespeare.com.

DWIGHT YOAKAM: Friday, August 8 (8 pm) @ Silver Legacy Grand Exposition Hall
A pioneer of the “hillbilly rock” revival, Dwight Yoakam blends Bakersfield country with rock ’n’ roll swagger. His signature hit “Fast As You” is just one of many reasons fans flock to see this Grammy-winning icon live.

311 w/ Special Guest BAD FLOWER: Sunday, August 10 (8 pm) @ Grand Sierra Resort
Genre-bending and always energetic, 311 fuses alt-rock, reggae, and funk into a live show full of grooves and good vibes. Expect fan favorites like “Down,” with a grungy edge from special guest Badflower.

JAKE JACOBSON: Friday, August 15 (8 pm) @ The Alpine
Rising star Jake Jacobson is bringing fresh energy to country with a deep voice and boots-on-the-ground authenticity. If you like your country bold, heartfelt, and ready for the dance floor, his set is the one to catch. Check out “First Call,” and head down to The Alpine to see him live!

ICE NINE KILLS: Saturday, August 16 (6:30 pm) @ Grand Sierra Resort
Equal parts metalcore and theatrical mayhem, Ice Nine Kills delivers a horror-inspired live show that’s as intense as it is unforgettable. Their scream-along hit “The American Nightmare” turns every concert into a blood-pumping spectacle. Note: If you are sensitive to violent content, this content may not be suitable for you.

MODEST MOUSE: Thursday, August 28 (8 pm) @ Grand Sierra Resort 
With their quirky lyrics and dynamic soundscapes, Modest Mouse carved a unique niche in the alternative/indie world. Don’t miss your chance to hear “Float On,” a song that defined a generation and still hits just right.

Be prepared for a full-throttle night of trademark wit, one‑liners when Larry the Cable Guy brings his beloved blue‑collar alter ego to the Grand Theatre stage! The man who helped define blue‑collar comedy with multi‑platinum albums, a Grammy nod, hit films, and his voice as Mater in Cars is live and unapologetic in full flannel force, laughs guaranteed. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just in need of a night off-roading from daily stress, Larry delivers no-frills, high-octane hilarity. Don’t wait… “Git-R-Don” and buy your tickets now at GrandSierraResort.com.

vs. El Paso Chihuahuas
Tuesday, August 12 (6:35 pm) – Taco Tuesday featuring 2 street tacos for $5
Wednesday, August 13 (6:35 pm) – Dog Day & $10.29 reserve infield tickets at WILD Wednesday
Thursday, August 14 (6:35 pm) – Throwback Thursday, $2 Coors Light
Friday, August 15 (6:35 pm) – “Princess Night,” Faith Night & Fireworks Friday
Saturday, August 16 (6:35 pm) – “Toy Story” Night + Slinky Giveaway!
Sunday, August 17 (1:05 pm) – Family Night $1.50 hot dogs and kids run the bases postgame
vs. Sacramento Rivercats
Tuesday, August 26 (6:35 pm) – Taco Tuesday featuring 2 street tacos for $5
Wednesday, August 27 (6:35 pm) – Dog Day & $10.29 reserve infield tickets at WILD Wednesday
Thursday, August 28 (6:35 pm) – Throwback Thursday, $2 Coors Light
Friday, August 29 (6:35 pm) – “Wolfpack” Night, Girl Scouts Night, & Fireworks Friday
Saturday, August 30 (6:35 pm) – “Friends” Night, Friends Couch Photos & Mug Giveaway
Sunday, August 31 (1:05 pm) – Family Day w/ $1.50 Hot Dogs

Seeing the chill vibe of Food Truck Friday at Idlewild park may have you wondering about WTF…  Simply put, Reno now has THREE weekly gourmet food truck events happening this Summer… on Wednesday, Thursday AND Friday.  Yes, this year, Reno Street Food is offered in triplicate, bringing tastebud bliss to more neighborhoods for our enjoyment!  Pick your favorite night and the location that works best for you, gather your best buds, and get outside for some fresh Northern Nevada air and some of the must-try morsels around!  From picky eaters to adventurous foodies, everyone’s cravings are covered—no one leaves hungry.  Bring along a blanket and some easy chairs to settle in for the full experience… delicious bites, good vibes, and all the tempting scents in the air. Learn more about all the participating trucks, live music, and more at Facebook.com/RenoStreetFood!

Did the entertainment factor of Artown in July leave you wanting more in August?? Look no further than the Dog Days of Summer Dance Festival, three nights of high-energy, family-friendly fun featuring a rotating lineup of talented local dance companies. Bring your own chairs, grab dinner from food trucks, and settle in for an unforgettable show under the stars that is completely free at the Pioneer Center Plaza. Each evening kicks off at 6 pm with performances at 7:30 pm. As a bonus, the SPCA of Northern Nevada adds some tail-wagging charm with a nightly “Pup Parade” fashion show starring adorable rescue dogs in thrifted runway looks. It’s a feel-good fusion of art, community, and canine cuteness you won’t want to miss! Check out all the fun details at PioneerCenter.com.