Get ready for an October filled with cultural, haunting and imaginative adventures in Reno-Sparks! From spine-chilling haunted houses, mesmerizing music festivals, to honoring our great state of Nevada, and everything in between, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this fall.
Dark Corner Haunted House
- When: Friday, September 29 – Tuesday, October 31
- Where: National Bowling Stadium, 300 N. Center St., Reno
Dark Corner Haunted House is an immersive experience filled with terrifying live actors, jaw dropping special effects, and menacing monsters. For the last 15 years, they have been collecting & creating some of the most horrific scenes that take you deep into a world that no one should see and they want to show you what they’ve found. Reno’s iconic, now demolished mall, is getting a revival from the dead… Dark Lane Mall has been transformed into haunted, possessed by Freaks, and just straight up creepy abandoned place that is worth seeing.
Hauntober in Virginia City
- When: Sunday, October 1 – Tuesday, October 31
- Where: Virginia City, 85 S. C St., Virginia City
October transforms Virginia City into Hauntober, a month-long celebration of the supernatural. As one of America’s most haunted towns, it’s the ideal destination for spine-tingling events. Join us for Cemetery Gin’s Hunt for Spirits, eerie Bats in the Belfry Guided Ghost tours, the quirky World Championship Outhouse Races, V&T Railroad Pumpkin Patch rides, illuminated adult Lighted Trains, the chilling Hauntober Parade, Safe Trick or Treat, and paranormal tours at various haunted attractions. Prepare for a month filled with otherworldly experiences and thrills.
OffBeat Music Festival
- When: Thursday, October 5 – Saturday, October 7
- Where: Midtown District, 445 S. Virginia St., Reno
Discover the undiscovered at the Off Beat Music Festival! Here in the Biggest Little City, there’s a world of hidden gems waiting to be unearthed. From emerging bands with electrifying live performances to the culinary delights of renowned chefs you’ve yet to taste, Off Beat is your ticket to the unexpected. This citywide, multi-venue festival spans three-days, offering a festival crawl experience with 80 performances at various Reno hotspots, from cozy bars to grand theaters. Embark on a journey off the beaten path and unlock a world of new discoveries in music, food, art, and more.
Exhibition Premiere – Cannupa Hanska Luger: Speechless
- When: Friday, October 6
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
Join us for the Exhibition Premiere of “Speechless” with Cannupa Hanska Luger at 8:00 p.m. Delve into the profound themes of communication, human agency, colonial history, language, and control through the unique perspective of Indigenous culture. As a special treat, DJ Miss Ginger will perform a live set in the Nightingale Sky Room, with a guest appearance by Cannupa Hanska Luger himself. Enjoy extended gallery hours and breathtaking panoramic views, all while sipping on beverages from the cash bar. This event is proudly presented as part of the Debra and Dennis Scholl Distinguished Speaker Series. Don’t miss out!
Spark the Imagination
- When: Sunday, October 8
- Where: Sparks Library, 1125 12th, Sparks
Ignite your child’s creativity at our FREE hour-long workshop, specially crafted for kids aged 6-12. Join on the 2nd Sunday of the month (dates subject to change due to holidays) starting on October 8th for an enchanting experience in mask making. Led by the talented Naomi “Di Vine” De Vore, a renowned mixed media artist from Reno, NV, this workshop promises to spark your child’s imagination. With Naomi’s guidance, kids will have the chance to craft unique masks and costumes, setting their creativity free in a world of music, painting, dancing, and theatre. Don’t miss this opportunity to let your child’s inner artist shine!
Walk to End Alzheimer’s
- When: Saturday, October 14
- Where: Sparks Marina, 300 Howard Dr., Sparks
Join the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, the largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research, held annually in over 600 communities nationwide. Participants of all ages and abilities come together to fight this disease. While registration is free, all participants are encouraged to raise funds supporting 24/7 care, research for prevention, treatment, and a cure. Make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s.
Forest Therapy Walk
- When: Sunday, October 15
- Where: Wilbur D. May Museum Arboretum, 13925 S. Virginia St., Reno
Experience the serene beauty of the Arboretum like never before with Forest Therapy Walks led by Julie Baum, a forest therapy guide in training. Join her on October 15th at 7:30 a.m. for a sensory-based journey through the gardens, followed by a peaceful tea ceremony. These walks continue every third Sunday in the fall, lasting 2.5 hours. Reserve your spot by emailing Hannah at hhill@washoecounty.gov, and consider a donation to the May Arboretum in place of a registration fee. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with nature.
Reno Ukefest 2023
- When: Wednesday, October 18 – Saturday, October 21
- Where: Nugget Casino & Resort, 1100 Nugget Ave., Sparks
Embark on a musical journey at the 15th Annual Reno Ukulele Festival, a four-day extravaganza held at the Nugget Casino & Resort in Sparks. This family-friendly event boasts daily workshops, evening concerts, open mics, community performances, raffles, and plenty of shopping. World-class ukulele talents like Daniel Ho, Victoria Vox, and more await. The Friday evening concert even graces the famous Celebrity Showroom, oozing Sinatra-era charm. Join midnight jams for an unforgettable musical experience. Reno Ukefest: where melodies and memories unite like no other.
Creative Directions in Jazz presented by Reno Jazz Orchestra
- When: Saturday, October 21
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary jazz compositions with the Reno Jazz Orchestra. Led by Guest Music Director Gary Mayne, this seventeen-piece ensemble invites you to explore the cutting edge of jazz music. Join us at 6:30 pm for a delightful evening with a cash bar. This event is part of the “UPSTAGE: A Literary and Performing Art Series,” generously supported by the Nightingale Family Foundation and the Williams Foundation. Don’t miss this unique musical journey.
PACK MidTown: Official Homecoming Tailgate Party
- When: Friday, October 27
- Where: Midtown District, 445 S. Virginia St., Reno
Join the Nevada Alumni Association, ASUN, and MidTown Reno in packing MidTown for UNR’s Homecoming this fall! On October 27, 2023, MidTown businesses and Alumni Chapters are hosting a range of tailgate parties open to the public. Check out the website for the full schedule! Wear your Nevada gear and explore the festivities on foot or via pedicab as you hop from one exciting tailgate to another. Celebrate homecoming in style!
The Dirty Wookie Run
- When: Saturday, October 28 – Sunday, October 29
- Where: Downtown Reno, S. Virginia St., Reno
Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween weekend with the Dirty Wookie 10K & 5K! The 5K kicks off on Saturday, starting and ending at the Brewer’s Cabinet Production Facility. On Sunday, the 10K leads runners through scenic Reno, with options for transportation to the start line. Challenge yourself with the Dirty Wookie Challenge, conquering both races and earning exclusive rewards. Dress up as your favorite Star Wars character or in any costume to join in the Halloween fun. Don’t miss out on this thrilling running event!
Nevada Day Parade
- When: Saturday, October 28
- Where: Downtown Carson City, 716 N. Carson St., Carson City
The Nevada Day Parade in Carson City stands as the nation’s grandest celebration of statehood. Since 1938, this annual event has united Nevadans to honor their heritage and commemorate the state’s founding on October 31, 1864. Explore the website for everything you need to know about the parade, the World Championship Single Jack Rock Drill Competition, the Beard Contest, and the Balloon Launch. Delve into the archive of past parades and programs and stay updated as new information rolls in. Wear your Silver & Blue and be part of the celebration!
