This May calendar of events in Reno/Sparks offers unlimited adventure opportunities, fun summer runs, Nevada Museum of Art exhibitions, Triple-A baseball games at the Greater Nevada Field, and more. So, enjoy the best time of year in Northern Nevada, and don’t forget the sunscreen!
May Calendar of Events In Reno And Sparks
Reno Aces Baseball vs Round Rock
- When: Tuesday, May 3, 2022–Sunday, May 8, 2022
- Where: Greater Nevada Field, 250 Evans Ave., Reno
- More information
During this May calendar of events in Reno, see the Triple-A Baseball’s Reno Aces take on Round Rock at 11:05 a.m. May 3, 6:35 p.m. May 4-6, 4:05 p.m. May 7, and 1:05 p.m. May 8 at Greater Nevada Field.
First Thursday with Musical Guest John Courage
- When: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, May 5, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
First Thursday returns with live music presented with Loud As Folk, a regional singer-songwriter showcase. Featuring musical guests John Courage, Greg Gilmore, and host Spike McGuire.
Life Drawing: Open Studio
- When: 1-4 p.m. Thursdays, May 5-26, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Improve your life drawing skills and explore a variety of media while working freely with a nude model in this popular open studio class. The instructor will be present to coordinate class and offer instruction. Ages: Adults 18+.
MidTown Reno First Thursdays
- When: All day starting at 9 a.m. Thursday, May 5, 2022
- Where: Midtown Reno
- More information
Make a plan to enjoy the places that make MidTown the heart of Reno on the first Thursday of each month. With a day at your favorite MidTown retailers, services, bars, and restaurants, you can experience in-store events featuring food and beverage tastings, local art exhibits, live music, and more.
Symphony No. 3: Altered Landscape – A Discussion
- When: Noon-1 p.m. Friday, May 6, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Jimmy López Bellido, a Peruvian-American composer, was invited by Laura Jackson of the Reno Philharmonic to work with curators at the Nevada Museum of Art to select photographs from the museum’s “Carol Franc Buck Altered Landscape Photography Collection” to inspire his brand-new composition, Symphony No. 3: Altered Landscape. Join in for a discussion with Jimmy López Bellido, Laura Jackson, and Director of the Center for Art + Environment, William L. Fox.
Riverside Farmers Market
- When: 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays, May 7-28, 2022
- Where: McKinley Arts Center, 925 Riverside Drive, Reno
- More information
From micro-farms and home-based bakers to established small businesses in the Truckee Meadows region, there offerings all year long. The market runs on Saturdays until the end of May and then switches to Thursdays.
iPhone Photography: Shooting Techniques, Editing, and Printing
- When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 7, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Learn how to shoot well-composed photos by using your iPhone. With the fast-growing quality of cell phone cameras, photography has become a much more accessible art form. This class will cover the fundamentals of composition, lighting, editing specific to the iPhone software, and printing images directly from your phone. Ages: Adult 15+.
Reno River Festival
- When: 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, May 7, 2022–9 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday, May 8, 2022
- Where: Wingfield Park, 2 S. Arlington Ave., Reno
- More information
The Reno River Festival returns for a weekend of outdoor adventure in the heart of downtown Reno as the official kick-off to summer in Northern Nevada. The festival features live music performances by more than 20 local and national acts, craft beer and hard seltzer tours, food, craft vendors, the adrenaline-pumping thrills of the Reno Tahoe Adventure Park, and the Mother-Daughter Look-A-Like Contest, plus new elements for 2022.
Mother’s Day Boutique
- When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, May 7, 2022
- Where: McKinley Arts Center, 925 Riverside Drive, Reno
- More information
Come where handmade, artisanal goods blend with locally grown produce and freshly crafted culinary delights. Relax along the river and enjoy the sounds of guitarists strumming, accordions bellowing, and children playing. Grab some hot breakfast or lunch and enjoy a coffee, smoothie, or herbal elixir. Wear something to celebrate spring and get a professional photo with your family and friends.
Grizzly Arts & Crafts Festival
- When: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, May 7, 2022
- Where: Galena High School, 3600 Butch Cassidy Dr., Reno
- More information
The Grizzly Arts & Crafts Festival is a student-run event that supports and promotes local artists from Reno-Tahoe and surrounding areas. The festival will be held in the Galena High School gym, with food trucks, raffles, and all-day fun.
‘Altered Landscape’ Symphony World Premiere
- When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 7, 2022, and 4 p.m. Sunday, May 8, 2022
- Where: Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, 100 S. Virginia St., Reno
- More information
Experience a brand-new symphony by Jimmy López Bellido, inspired by Nevada Museum of Art’s photographic collection, “The Altered Landscape: Photographs of a Changing Environment.” The composition explores the dynamic interconnectedness of humans and the Earth and envisions a hypothetical future where we exist in harmony with our natural environment.
Divas’ Day Out
- When: Doors open at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 7, 2022
- Where: Grand Sierra Resort, 2500 E. 2nd St., Reno
- More information
Divas’ Day Out features 100+ businesses on-site for shopping, giveaways, and information on health, fitness, beauty, fashion, motherhood, finance, education, career, and fun.
22nd Annual Pinocchio’s Moms on the Run
- When: 7 a.m. Sunday, May 8, 2022
- Where: Reno High School’s Foster Field, 395 Booth St., Reno
- More information
As an annual family-fun activity on this May calendar of events in Reno/Sparks, the Pinocchio’s Mom on the Run 5k walk and 5k/10k runs are a Mother’s Day family tradition for many in this community.
Mother’s Day Sip, Shop & Brunch
- When: 11 a.m. Sunday, May 8, 2022
- Where: The. Alpine, 324 E. Fourth St., Reno
- More information
This Mother’s Day Sip, Shop, and Brunch event features brunch offerings from Record Street Brewing, mimosas, live music, and local makers for a unique shopping experience.
Ranger Walks – Crystal Peak Park
- When: 10 a.m. Sunday, May 8, 2022
- Where: Crystal Peak Park
- More information
With this May calendar of events in Reno, lace up your hiking boots and get outdoors with a Washoe County Park Ranger! Discover new trails and learn more about your local environment in various Washoe County parks and open space habitats. Bring a jacket, sturdy pair of hiking boots, snack, water bottle, and your favorite camera. This program is free, and all ages are welcome, but please leave pets at home.
Thursday Painting Class: Redwoods by Kira Yustak
- When: 6 p.m. Thursday, May 12, 2022
- Where: Lake Mansion, 250 Court St., Reno
- More information
Pines, Redwoods & Sequoias: Trees can be painted with ease using the right brushes and supplies. Evergreens are bountiful in many landscapes, so learning to master them can enrich your painting skills. Receive one-on-one creative guidance to paint your own 12″ x 24″ canvas. All supplies included.
Lecture Series: Vintage Hotels of Nevada
- When: 7 p.m. Thursday, May 12, 2022
- Where: Piper’s Opera House, 12 N. B St., Virginia City
- More information
This May calendar of events in Reno/Sparks features a fascinating lecture covering Vintage Hotels of Nevada built from 1860 to 1908. The places mentioned are the Gold Hill Hotel, International Hotel in Virginia City and Austin, St. Charles Hotel in Carson City, Warm Springs Hotel in Carson City, Lake House/Riverside Hotel in Reno, and Ormsby House in Carson City. The lecture will discuss the architecture of the buildings, the owners, relevant Nevada history, and ghosts, if any.
A Closer Look Guided Tour
- When: 1 p.m. Fridays in May 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
A museum volunteer docent will lead you through current exhibitions to explore a specific topic more closely. A Closer Look is offered every Friday. Reservations are recommended.
Hands ON! Second Saturday – Celebrate the Art of Jean LaMarr
- When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, May 14, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Estelle J. Kelsey Foundation Hands ON! Second Saturdays offer monthly free admission, hands-on art activities, storytelling, a docent-guided tour, live performances, and community collaborations. Bring the family to celebrate the art of Jean LaMarr. Meet the artist, enjoy cultural performances and presentations, learn about indigenous foodways, listen to stories of the Great Basin, and make art inspired by LaMarr’s work.
Ales & Tales
- When: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, May 14, 2022
- Where: Animal Ark, 1265 Deerlodge Road, Reno
- More information
As an adults-only event with big cats, foxes, and bears, a local beer and wine vendor, music, and keeper chats, this beautiful event makes for a perfect summer getaway. No golf carts are available at this event.
Nevada Living History Day
- When: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, May 14, 2022
- Where: Bowers Mansion Regional Park, 4005 Bowers Mansion Road, New Washoe City
- More information
Various exhibits and demonstrations take place inside Bowers Mansion, with a mansion history talk at the top of each hour. Self-guided tours are available. Admission costs $7 for adults; $5 for children and seniors. Masks are required.
Reno Aces Baseball vs Las Vegas
- When: Tuesday, May 17, 2022–Sunday, May 22, 2022
- Where: Greater Nevada Field, 250 Evans Ave., Reno
- More information
See the Triple-A Baseball’s Reno Aces take on Las Vegas at 6:35 p.m. May 17-20, 4:05 p.m., 4:05 p.m. May 21, and 1:05 p.m. May 22 at Greater Nevada Field.
“Jesus Christ Superstar”
- When: 7:30 p.m. May 17-19, 8 p.m. May 20-21, 2 p.m. May 21-22 and 7 p.m. May 22, 2022
- Where: Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, 100 S. Virginia St., Reno
- More information
Celebrating its 50th Anniversary, a new mesmerizing production of the iconic musical phenomenon returns to the stage. Appealing to theater audiences and concert music fans, this production pays tribute to the historic 1971 Billboard Album of the Year while creating a modern, theatrical world.
The Art of Stillness: A Guided Meditation
- When: Noon-1 p.m. Friday, May 20, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Explore “stillness” with published author and meditation expert Stephen Jacobs. Used as a technique to improve inner balance, focus, and reflection, meditation can help support a healthy, happy, productive life. Stephen Jacobs will lead a discussion introducing the benefits of meditation and concludes with an interactive guided meditation.
Dementia Caregivers Virtual Support Group
- When: 1:30-3 p.m. Friday, May 20, 2022
- Where: Virtual Class Only
- More information
Support groups create a private, safe and supportive environment and allow participants to develop informal mutual support and social relationships. They also educate and inform participants about dementia and help participants develop methods and skills to solve problems.
Hot August Nights Spring Fever Revival & Classic Car Poker Run
- When: Friday, May 20, 2022–Sunday, May 22, 2022
- Where: Grand Sierra Resort, 2500 E. 2nd St., Reno
- More information
Hot August Nights jumpstarts the season with Spring Fever Revival, which will get the engines warmed up and ready for the main event. For three days, we will show-n-shine with classic vehicles, live entertainment, and a vendor village featuring art & craft vendors, memorabilia, and food vendors.
Introduction to Glass Art: Suncatchers and Coasters
- When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 21, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
Create suncatchers and coasters in this hands-on introductory glass art course. Students will explore the fantastic world of kiln-formed glass art by utilizing clear and colored flat glass, recycled art glass, and various tools and techniques. Learn more about the process of designing, cutting, melting, kiln-forming the glass, and annealing your finished pieces. Additionally, students will learn about this medium’s science, history, technology, and culture. All supplies are provided. Ages: Adults: 15+.
39th Annual Chili on the Comstock
- When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 21, 2022
- Where: Virginia City, 85 S. C St., Virginia City
- More information
With this May calendar of events in Reno/Sparks, you can meet some of the top chili cooks, gathering for the 39th annual Chili on the Comstock. Chili cookers compete to win your vote for the best chili and people’s choice awards. The Craft Beer Tour is your chance to enjoy plenty of cold, refreshing brews poured from stops around town and at the Chili on the Comstock Craft Beer Lounge.
Pyramid Lake in Watercolor
- When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesdays, May 24-31, 2022
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
- More information
This class will provide instruction in painting the unique characteristics of Pyramid Lakes’ water, sky, and rocks. On the second day of class, the instructor will focus on student’s individual progress and provide help with their sketches and paintings. Ages: Adult 15+.
Thursday Painting Class: Sunset Pine Trees by Laura Iverson
- When: 6-8:30 p.m. Thursday, May 26, 2022
- Where: Lake Mansion, 250 Court St., Reno
- More information
Sunset Pine Trees by Laura Iverson: As challenging as they seem, trees can be painted with ease if using the right brushes and supplies. Evergreens are bountiful in many landscapes, so learning to master them can enrich your painting skills. Receive one-on-one creative guidance to paint your own 16″ x 20″ canvas masterpiece.
Programs on the Porch (Silver Strings)
- When: 7 p.m. Friday, May 27, 2022
- Where: Bowers Mansion Regional Park, 4005 Bowers Mansion Road, New Washoe City
- More information
Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy these live, local musicians as they entertain with various genres. Admission is free, although our performers welcome and appreciate donations. Each program is subject to current COVID guidelines.
Wild Nevada Weekend
- When: 10 a.m. Saturday, May 28, 2022-3 p.m. Sunday, May 29, 2022
- Where: Animal Ark, 1265 Deerlodge Road, Reno
- More information
No one loves Nevada more than Nevadans. As part of this May calendar of events in Reno/Sparks, celebrate our state’s wild wonders, from its flora and fauna to its history and more. This event features guest speakers and presentations, keeper chats with native Nevadan wildlife, food trucks, youth activities, and programs.
Reno Aces Baseball vs Tacoma
- When: 6:35 p.m. Tuesday, May 31, 2022
- Where: Greater Nevada Field, 250 Evans Ave., Reno
- More information
See the Triple-A Baseball’s Reno Aces take on Tacoma at Greater Nevada Field for Taco Tuesday.
