What’s on, Reno to Tahoe.
The big annual events within a day’s drive of pickup. Exact dates are shown where they’ve been announced; otherwise the usual month.
Winter
Ski season, and the quieter months around the lake.
Tahoe ski season opensLate NovemberPalisades Tahoe, Heavenly, Northstar and Mt. Rose usually open their lifts in late November, as snow allows.
California International MarathonDecember 6, 2026A point-to-point road marathon into Sacramento.
North Lake Tahoe SnowFestLate Feb – early MarchAbout ten days of winter contests, street fairs and fireworks around the north shore.
Spring
The season starts in the old mining towns and on the river.
Rocky Mountain Oyster FryMarchA long-running cook-off in Virginia City, with a St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Hot August Nights Spring FeverMayA two-day spring classic car show in Reno that previews the summer season.
Reno River FestivalLate MayThree days of whitewater kayaking, music and food on the Truckee River at Idlewild Park.
Summer
Reno’s busiest stretch, and the best of the lake.
Reno RodeoJune 17–26, 2027A ten-day professional rodeo with bull riding and the traditional cattle drive beforehand.
ArtownAll of JulyA month-long arts festival across Reno, most of it free.
Truckee 4th of July ParadeJuly 4A hometown parade of floats and vintage cars through historic downtown Truckee.
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare FestivalJuly – AugustOutdoor evening theater on the beach at Sand Harbor, with the lake behind the stage.
Hot August NightsLate July – early AugustA classic car festival with cruises, show-and-shines and a closing parade in Reno and Sparks.
Burning ManAug 29 – Sept 6, 2027The temporary arts city in the Black Rock Desert. Needs a ticket and full self-sufficiency.
Fall
Clear days, cool nights and the balloon race.
Great Reno Balloon RaceSeptemberHot air balloons lift off at dawn over Rancho San Rafael Park. Free.
Camel and Ostrich RacesSeptemberA Virginia City tradition of more than 65 years, on a historic hillside arena.
California State FairFall 2027The state fair in Sacramento moves from July to early fall starting in 2027.
Genoa Candy DanceLate SeptemberA large crafts fair in Nevada’s oldest town, with homemade candy and a dinner dance.
Street VibrationsLate SeptemberA motorcycle rally with rides around the Tahoe loop and stops in the Comstock towns.
Nevada Day ParadeLate OctoberCarson City’s main-street parade for Nevada’s statehood.
Got a date in mind?
Tell us the weekend and we will tell you straight away whether it is free.
Book it on whichever you use — same coach, same calendar, same price.
Call or text 310-569-0050