Welcome to a December filled with joyous festivities and cultural delights! Embrace the holiday spirit with a medley of events set to sparkle the month. Dive into the harmonious ‘Resonating Earth’ by Musica Sierra featuring Carolyn Enger, a captivating exploration of music intertwined with discussions about environmental stewardship.
Reno shines bright with ‘Let it Glow,’ adorning the streets in festive lights, while Tahoe hosts the 7th annual Film Fest, offering thought-provoking environmental and independent films. Step back in time with ‘Christmas on the Comstock,’ a Victorian-style celebration, and experience the magic of the ‘Peanutcracker’ by Sierra Nevada Ballet, a delightful Nutcracker rendition for families.
The streets of Sparks come alive with the ‘Hometowne Christmas Parade Weekend,’ a tradition celebrating 36 years, inviting you to revel in the merriment. Journey into relaxation with Cosmic Hearts’ Sound Bath or find one-of-a-kind treasures at Urban Roots’ Handmade Holiday Faire.
Lastly, bid farewell to the year at multiple New Year’s Eve Celebrations across Reno, promising a grand welcome to 2023. With book launches, parades, ballet, film, and festive celebrations, December is set to be a month filled with joy, entertainment, and the warmth of the holiday spirit. Join in and make lasting memories at these enchanting events!
Festive Holiday Events
2023 Sparks Hometowne Christmas Parade Weekend
- When: Thursday, November 30 – Saturday, December 2, 2023
- Where: Downtown Sparks, Victorian Ave.
Join the 36th annual Sparks Hometowne Christmas Parade weekend starting on November 30th and visit the 39 North Pole for Santa photos, light displays, and a vibrant crafters village, creating a festive pre-parade celebration. On Friday enjoy the tree lighting ceremony and December 2nd is the parade with the theme ‘Dashing Through the Decades.’ Embrace nostalgia by dressing up in 70s disco or 80s flair! Expect floats, music, and community spirit.
Let it Glow, Reno
- When: Friday, December 1, 2023 – January, 7, 2024
- Where: MidTown Reno, Downtown Reno, Riverwalk District, Brewery District, and Wells Avenue
Experience the radiant charm of ‘Let it Glow, Reno,’ a cheerful light competition uniting MidTown, Downtown, Riverwalk, Brewery District, and Wells Avenue. Wander through twinkling streets and adorned shops, savoring the vibrant Reno community spirit. Cast your vote for the best lights while exploring local businesses. Voting runs all December, with categories like ‘Most Reno’ and ‘Best in District.’ Join us at the ‘Let It Glow Spotlight Party’ in late December for the winner reveal!
Christmas on the Comstock
- When: Friday, December 1 – Sunday, December 31, 2023
- Where: Virginia City, 85 S. C St., Virginia City
Embrace the festive spirit with ‘Christmas on the Comstock’ throughout December, a Victorian-style celebration featuring a tree lighting, a lively saloon crawl, the ‘Believe Again Christmas Giveaway,’ and enchanting events like the V&T Candy Cane Express and Train O’Lights. Join the St. Mary’s Art Center Holiday Faire and Senior Center Craft Fair for unique gifts by local artisans. Don’t miss the Parade of Lights, magical fireworks, and the 601 Christmas Concert at Piper’s Opera House for an unforgettable holiday experience!
Sierra Nevada Ballet presents PEANUTCRACKER – The Story in a Nutshell
- When: Sunday, December 3, 2023
- Where: Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, 100 S. Virginia St., Reno
Experience the magic of ‘Peanutcracker,’ a condensed 45-minute version of The Nutcracker, specially tailored for families with young kids. This captivating performance showcases the essence of The Nutcracker with a glowing Christmas tree, the Rat King’s battle, Clara, and the Sugar Plum Fairy, complemented by animated narration. Sierra Nevada Ballet’s professional dancers and 40+ local children promise an unmissable holiday event appealing to audiences of all ages.
Urban Roots Handmade Holiday Faire
- When: Sunday, December 3, 2023
- Where: Urban Roots, 100 Vine St., Reno
Explore an array of local arts and crafts at our Handmade Holiday Faire, perfect for finding unique gifts like jewelry, pottery, and handmade soaps. Learn craft-making while sipping a warm beverage. Capture memories with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Tickets available ONLINE – ticket prices vary by age, and all proceeds support Urban Roots.
Art Bite: Musica Sierra presents Carolyn Enger’s Resonating Earth
- When: Friday, December 15, 2023
- Where: Nevada Museum of Art, 160 W. Liberty St., Reno
Join Musica Sierra and renowned pianist Carolyn Enger in ‘Resonating Earth,’ a powerful piano performance intertwined with discussions about climate change. This multimedia experience offers a meditative journey blending music and environmental art, aiming to inspire proactive environmental engagement. Musica Sierra, established in 2019, is dedicated to fostering arts enrichment and education and aim to expand arts influence in the region.
Book Launch and Signing!
- When: Saturday, December 2, 2023
- Where: Picasso & Wine Midtown, 148 Vassar St., Reno
Attend the Official Book Launch and Signing of 100 Things To Do In Reno Before You Die, 2nd Edition! Meet author Mikalee Byerman, savor cocktails, light bites, and grab your copy. Reno’s charm and diverse character unfold in this guide, featuring historic spots like Casale’s Halfway Club and scenic marvels in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Explore new destinations like the Reno Public Market. Award-winning author Mikalee Byerman guides you through Northern Nevada’s finest experiences, making this edition a must-have for your bucket list.
Cosmic Hearts Sound Bath
- When: Wednesday, December 20, 2023
- Where: The Virgil, 301 Vassar St., Reno
Engage in Cosmic Hearts’ monthly sound baths, harnessing the soothing resonance of crystal bowls, tuning forks, and more for a healing auditory experience. Enhance this session with add-ons like aromatherapy, Reiki, and herbal elixirs. Opt for Tarot mini-readings before or after the sound bath. Attendees should arrive between 6:00 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. with personal comfort items like a yoga mat, blanket, and journal. Led by core facilitators Cheryl Bowers, Jonny Cosmic, and others.
9th Tahoe Film Fest
- When: Thursday, November 30 – Sunday, December 3rd
- Where: Incline Village Cinema, Crystal Bay Casino Crown Room, Northstar Village Cinema
Tahoe Film Fest enriches the cultural landscape of the stunning Tahoe region. With a primary focus on environmental films, the festival educates and honors the conservation of Lake Tahoe’s beauty. Alongside American Independent Films and New Films from Latin America, the festival pays tribute to filmmakers. All proceeds support UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center, reinforcing the commitment to preserving the area’s pristine environment and surroundings.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Urban Roots Handmade Holiday Faire
- When: Sunday, December 31, 2023
- Where: Various Locations
Ring in 2023 at the many New Year’s Eve bashes in Reno! Join the ‘Solid Gold New Year’ at Rum Sugar Lime or revel in the ‘House Party’ hosted by The Depot Craft Brewery & Distillery. Dead Ringer Analog Bar hosts ‘VICE New Year’s Eve,’ offering an electrifying celebration. Each event promises a unique atmosphere, music, and festivities to welcome the New Year in style.
