WEEKEND WARRIOR: SEPT 2025

Burning Man is already unfolding in the Black Rock Desert, forging its temporary city of art, creativity, and radical self-expression, come rain or shine. Expect an influx of “Burners” streaming back through Reno as the event progresses, bringing the post-playa energy bouncing right into our city. Recent storms have thrown a wrench into the dusty fun, as gates have closed more than once, leaving tens of thousands stranded, and the playa has turned into a muddy, half-baked oatmeal wonderland. All that unpredictable weather means longer travel times both to and from Black Rock City. Plan ahead, stay patient, and maybe give Reno’s roads and services some extra breathing room. The desert city may vanish without a trace, but its spirit, and thousands of riders and drivers, will leave a lively footprint here in Reno. For more information about Burning Man, visit BurningMan.org.

Hard to believe that Summer is coming to an end!  Where did that time go?? Sadly, we’re wrapping up the Reno Street Food events for the season. The last Food Truck Friday of 2025 takes place on August 29 at Idlewild Park, featuring all the delectable offerings we’ve enjoyed all summer. Remember to grab your beach blanket and Tommy Bahama chairs for kicking back on the grass and enjoying live local music while savoring your savory or sweet samplings. And the temps are starting to drop with the sun, so take a little jacket along too… Do I sound like your mom?? LOL. Discover more about Food Truck Friday at Facebook.com/RenoStreetFood. 

vs. Sacramento Rivercats
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

vs. Las Vegas Aviators
Tuesday, September 9 (6:35 pm) – Taco Tuesday, 2 street tacos for $5
Wednesday, September 10 (6:35 pm) – WILD 102.9 to offer $10.29 Infield Reserve tickets
Thursday, September 11 (6:35 pm) – Throwback Thursday, $2 Coors Light
Friday, September 12 (6:35 pm) – Pregame Flea Market 5-7 pm, 30+ vendors, post-game Fireworks
Saturday, September 13 (6:05 pm) – “In Our Baseball Era Night” & Happy Hour
Sunday, September 14 (1:05 pm) – Fan Appreciation Night and Family Day w/ $1.50 Hot Dogs

WAYNE NEWTON: Thursday, Sept 4 – Saturday, Sept 6 (8 pm) @ Eldorado Showroom
Vegas royalty Wayne Newton brings his timeless flair and smooth charm back to the showroom, blending heartfelt crooning with decades of showbiz polish. With an incomparable stage presence that earned him the title “Mr. Las Vegas,” his performance is both nostalgic and unforgettable. You’ll be humming show-stopping classics like “Daddy Don’t You Walk So Fast” long after the curtains close.

TEDDY SWIMS: Saturday, Sept 6, (7 pm) @ Caesars Republic Amphitheatre, South Lake Tahoe
When Teddy Swims steps into the spotlight, soulful grit meets genre-bending melody with passion and authenticity. His soulful pop fusion shines brightest in the chart-topping “Lose Control” and his resolute and uplifting song, “The Door.”

BAILEY ZIMMERMAN: Friday, Sept 12 (8 pm) @ Grand Sierra Resort
Fresh-faced and authentic, Bailey Zimmerman injects modern country with raw emotion and lyrical grit. His breakout performance of “Rock and a Hard Place,” raw, catchy, and irresistibly real, captures the essence of his authentic storytelling.

DARIUS RUCKER: Saturday, Sept 13 (7 pm) @ Caesars Republic Amphitheatre, South Lake Tahoe
Rock roots and country soul collide when Darius Rucker takes the stage, bringing warm storytelling and smooth vocals shaped by both Hootie & the Blowfish fame and heartfelt solo success. His tender country classic “It Won’t Be Like This for Long” remains a beloved anthem.

JUANES: Saturday, Sept 20 (8 pm) @ Grand Sierra Resort
Juanes lights up the night with a magnetic blend of Latin rock, pop flair, and Colombian rhythm—a live experience rich in passion and melody. His international hit “La Camisa Negra” embodies his storytelling savvy and catchiness.

MEGAN MORONEY: Saturday, Sept 20 (6:30 pm) @ Caesars Republic Amphitheatre, South Lake Tahoe
Self-proclaimed “emo cowgirl”, Megan Moroney brings ample charm to the stage, channeling confessional lyrics with country twang and heartfelt authenticity. Her viral breakthrough, “Tennessee Orange” turned heads with its emotional twist and relatability. Don’t miss her memorable show at  Lake Tahoe on Sept 20.

EMPIRE OF THE SUN: Thursday, Sept 25 (8 pm) @ Grand Sierra Resort
Step into a neon dream with Empire of the Sun, the Aussie electro-pop duo known for vibrant visuals and euphoric synth anthems. Their ethereal crossover hit “Walking on a Dream” remains a feel-good favorite.

From the peaceful hush of Dawn Patrol to the kaleidoscope of colors filling the morning sky during Mass Ascension, the high-flying tradition of The Great Reno Balloon Race is pure magic. Held at Rancho San Rafael Park, this is the largest free hot-air ballooning event in the world. It feels like stepping into a dream as more than 100 balloons take flight over the Sierra sunrise. Whether you’re sipping cocoa or coffee in pajamas or chasing whimsical shapes with your camera, it’s a bucket-list experience that delights all ages. So set your alarm, pack a blanket, and prepare for liftoff… This is Reno at its most uplifting!  Oh… and as always, I recommend swinging by DoughBoys Donuts for a special treat to accompany your java. For more essential information, including parking tips, exclusive VIP experiences, and more, visit RenoBalloon.com.

It’s part Wild West and part zoo, and completely unmissable… Virginia City is serving up absurdist Americana at its finest! The International Camel & Ostrich Races are trotting back into Virginia City this Labor Day weekend for their 66th annual spectacle. This delightfully wacky tradition features daring riders atop camels, ostriches, and zebras zipping, swerving, and occasionally face-planting their way to the finish. Spread over three gloriously laughable days, the schedule includes Hot Camel Nights, a mid-day “Camel Hump to C Street” parade, and a Family Day where the first 100 kids get a free camel ride. Discover all of the entertaining details, including seating options, VIP opportunities, and parking shuttles at VisitVirginiaCityNV.com.

Hold onto your seats!  George Lopez, the irrepressible king of observational comedy, rolls into Reno for a night packed with laugh-after-laugh punchlines and sharp social satire. With decades of stand‑up chops, and TV legend status thanks to The George Lopez Show, and a talent for turning everyday chaos into comedy gold, he brings both heart and hilarity straight from the Valley to the stage. Expect spot‑on riffs about family, cultural quirks, and life’s absurdities, all delivered with that trademark Lopez charm and timing. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just in need of a serious laugh, this is one night of comedy you won’t soon forget. For tickets to the show, visit Ticketmaster.com, or visit the Silver Legacy box office to save a little dough.

Let the wiggles begin! The Reno Phil’s beloved Home Means Nevada is a complimentary concert inviting you and the “littles” in your life to embark on a musical journey through Nevada. You’ll be treated to the high-energy Orange Blossom Special, the playful excitement of The Thrill of the Orchestra, and the rhythmic fun of Las Chiapanecas. With lively tunes, interactive moments, and a super-welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect way to spark a love for music in young listeners. Pre-concert activities begin at 10 am, with coloring, crafts, and themed plaza fun before the 11 am show. No tickets are needed… Just bring your energy, curiosity, and maybe a dancing toddler or two!  Visit RenoPhil.com for more information!

Dive into a world of enchantment with A.V.A. Ballet Theatre’s The Little Mermaid! This “under the sea” fantasy springs to life at the Pioneer Center as mesmerizing dancers, playful sea creatures, and a dreamy prince take the stage in this family-friendly ballet gala. Choreographed by Alexander Van Alstyne and performed alongside the Reno Phil under the baton of Laura Jackson, this magical production follows a curious mermaid’s journey to become human, complete with a sea witch, whimsical crabs, and swishy-tailed intrigue. With stunning costumes, graceful storytelling, and music that stirs the soul, it’s the perfect splash of culture and wonder for audiences of all ages. Cast a line for your tickets at PioneerCenter.com and enjoy!

Join the Reno Phil for a spellbinding evening of fencing, fighting, true love, and miracles as they present The Princess Bride in Concert, featuring the film you adore and accompanied by Mark Knopfler’s enchanting score performed live. Relive the swashbuckling adventure of Westley, Buttercup, Inigo, Fezzik, and all your favorite characters, with the music soaring around you in a brand-new symphonic arrangement. From daring escapes to timeless one-liners.  This experience is so magical, it would be “INCONCEIVABLE” for you to miss it!  Packed with heart, humor, and heroics, this cinematic concert is as charming as its storybook ending. And speaking of the ending… As the official kick-off event for the 2025 Cordillera Film Festival, actors from the film will stick around for a live panel conversation. Don’t miss it! Learn more and purchase tickets in advance at RenoPhil.com. 

Step back in time and sweetly into fall with the Candy Dance in charming Genoa, Nevada’s oldest town and sweetest tradition. Born in 1919 to light up darkened streets, the town’s enterprising women spun sugar into magic by serving handmade candy at a dance that funded streetlights, and eventually the town’s electricity for a century and counting. Each late-September weekend, the streets overflow with over 400 arts and crafts booths, live music spanning every genre, and nostalgic homemade treats sold by volunteers who’ve kept this legend alive for generations. It’s more than an event… It’s a slice of local heritage where every handmade truffle, each waltz, and all those smiling faces whisper stories of resilience and community. So mark your calendar, indulge your sweet tooth, and take part in one of Nevada’s most beloved local traditions. Discover more about this event, including the dinner, the dance, and the faire at GenoaNevada.org.