Reno’s Winter Wonderland: Top Events to Kick Off the Holiday Season

The holiday spirit is lighting up Reno-Tahoe, and there’s no shortage of festive events to enjoy this season! From dazzling holiday festivals to enchanting performances and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone to celebrate and enjoy.

Whether you’re a longtime Reno resident or new to the area, these upcoming events are the perfect way to immerse yourself in the magic of the season. The Sullivan-Neal Luxury Real Estate team is excited to spotlight these incredible local happenings that make Reno a vibrant place to live, work, and play. Let’s explore the highlights that will make your holiday season unforgettable!

Holiday Lights Festival 

November 29 - 30

The Holiday Lights Festival will be at the City Plaza/Virginia Street Bridge from November 29-30, 2024 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. This seasonal celebration unites regional artisans and food and drink vendors to create an unforgettable experience for Reno’s residents during the annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Alongside the artisan marketplace, food truck garden, and holiday ale fest, the festival aims to illuminate the downtown corridor and provide entertainment to kick off the Christmas season. While artisans enjoy complimentary booth space, attendees will benefit from free photos with Santa, free train rides, free entertainment, and much more.

Siamsa - A Celtic Christmas

December 5

Siamsa – A Celtic Christmas is an enchanting holiday musical that will captivate the entire family! Featuring International Irish Dance Champions and an outstanding cast of the finest dancers, vocalists, musicians and actors. This production takes you into the magical world of Celtic traditions and customs from Galicia, Spain through Ireland, Scotland and beyond as it searches for the true meaning of Christmas. Shamrock Productions’ extraordinary performance includes a variety of exceptional choreography, opulent costumes, brilliant scenery, and an original holiday story that will delight the entire family and Irish dance enthusiasts alike.

Jurassic Quest

December 6 - 8

North America’s most popular interactive dinosaur experience is BACK, BIGGER and BETTER than EVER! This limited-time event is an unforgettable adventure, transporting families through 165 million years of the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods to roam among true-to-life versions of the creatures that once ruled the Earth. Loved by millions, Jurassic Quest is filled with hands-on activities, education and fun for kids of all ages -- from live dinosaur shows, to rides and inflatable attractions, arts and science activities. a fossil exhibit, and soft play area for our littlest explorers, you won't want to miss this fun-for-all family event! Use code RSCC30 to save 30% off tickets.

Reno Phil Presents Spirit of the Season

December 6 - 8

The dazzle of circus arts meets the excitement of Spirit of the Season in this special performance! Cirque stars tumble, soar, and delight while your Reno Phil Orchestra & Chorus, along with special guests, perform holiday and symphonic classics. It’s a perfect event for the entire family to enjoy together. Start your new tradition now and kick-off the holiday season with Spirit of the Season!

Beetlejuice

December 10 - 15

He earned his stripes on Broadway…now the ghost-with-the-most is coming to Reno! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. With an irreverent book, an astonishing set, and a score that’s out of this Netherworld, BEETLEJUICE is “SCREAMINGLY GOOD FUN!” (Variety). And under its uproarious surface (six feet under, to be exact), it’s a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O!

AVA Ballet Theatre Presents the Nutcracker

December 20 - 22

The stage at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts will be alive with a sugar plum fairy and dancing mice as A.V.A. Ballet Theatre presents the annual Nutcracker Ballet on December 20-22 at the Pioneer Center. Artistic director Alexander Van Alstyne has choreographed an exciting rendition of the popular holiday ballet and the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra will perform Tchaikovsky’s moving score. Laura Jackson will be conducting the orchestra. Due to popular demand, there will be a fifth performance.