September in Reno-Tahoe: Balloon Races, Fall Festivals, Lake Tahoe & More

September is one of the most beautiful months in Reno-Tahoe. The days begin to cool, the evenings become crisp, and the first signs of fall start to appear throughout the Sierra. From colorful hot-air balloons filling the morning sky and beloved community traditions to live performances, art shows, and the first hints of autumn around Lake Tahoe, September offers something for everyone.

Whether you're a longtime local, a seasonal resident, or considering making Reno-Tahoe home, here's a curated look at what's happening this September, brought to you by the Sullivan-Neal Luxury Real Estate Team.

Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off 
September 2–7

Labor Day Weekend wouldn't be complete without the Best in the West Nugget Rib Cook-Off in Victorian Square. Returning September 2 – 7, this beloved Reno-Sparks tradition brings together some of the country's top barbecue teams, live entertainment, food vendors, and thousands of locals and visitors. With family-friendly activities and the unmistakable energy of Labor Day Weekend, the Rib Cook-Off is a delicious Northern Nevada tradition the whole family can enjoy.

Lake Tahoe Labor Day Weekend 
September 4–6

Labor Day Weekend is the perfect opportunity to enjoy one more taste of summer at Lake Tahoe. The Heavenly Village Midway Art & Music Festival returns with live music, local art, carnival rides, food, and a spectacular fireworks finale.

It's a wonderful way to celebrate the final days of summer while enjoying everything that makes South Lake Tahoe so special. Spend the afternoon exploring Heavenly Village, take in the mountain scenery, and stay for an evening under the stars.

The Great Reno Balloon Race 
September 10–13

One of Reno's most beloved annual traditions takes to the skies as The Great Reno Balloon Race returns to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park for its 45th anniversary.

Each morning, dozens of colorful hot-air balloons rise over the Reno skyline during the Mass Ascension, creating one of the most spectacular sights of the year. The event is free to spectators and features the popular Dawn Patrol, Super Glow Shows, Balloon Boulevard, tethered rides, and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend.

There is something especially magical about watching the balloons float above the Sierra as the sun rises. It's one of those quintessential Reno experiences that locals look forward to year after year.

International Camel & Ostrich Races 
September 11–13

For something completely unique to Northern Nevada, head to historic Virginia City for the International Camel & Ostrich Races. Celebrating its 67th year, this famously quirky event brings camels, ostriches, zebras, emus, jockeys, and plenty of entertainment to the Virginia City Fairgrounds.

With four shows throughout the weekend, food and craft vendors, camel rides, and family-friendly activities, the Camel Races are a fun reminder that Northern Nevada knows how to celebrate its history while having a little fun along the way.

Reno Aces Baseball 
September 8–13

September brings the final stretch of the Reno Aces season to Greater Nevada Field. The Aces take on the Albuquerque Isotopes September 8–13, giving baseball fans one more opportunity to enjoy an evening at the ballpark before the season comes to a close.

Reno Tahoe International Art Show 
September 17–20

Art takes center stage at the Reno Tahoe International Art Show at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. Bringing together artists, galleries, collectors, and art enthusiasts from across the country, the show offers an impressive opportunity to experience contemporary art, meet talented artists, and discover one-of-a-kind works.

A.V.A. Ballet Theatre: Sleeping Beauty 
September 19–20

Experience one of ballet's most beloved classics as A.V.A. Ballet Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts. With its timeless story, beautiful choreography, elaborate costumes, and Tchaikovsky's iconic score, Sleeping Beauty promises an enchanting evening for audiences of all ages.

Fall Festival at Andelin Family Farm
September 19–October 31

Fall comes to life at Andelin Family Farm with its annual Fall Festival, featuring pumpkins, a five-acre corn maze, hayrides, seasonal treats, and plenty of autumn fun. It's a wonderful way to celebrate the season and create classic fall memories with family and friends.

CHICAGO at the Grand Sierra Resort
September 20

One of Broadway's most iconic musicals comes to Reno as CHICAGO takes the stage at the Grand Sierra Resort. Set in 1920s Chicago and filled with unforgettable music, dazzling choreography, and a story of fame, ambition, and scandal, the Tony Award-winning musical is a classic that continues to captivate audiences around the world.

Genoa Candy Dance Arts & Crafts Faire 
September 26–27

Just south of Reno in historic Genoa, the Genoa Candy Dance Arts & Crafts Faire returns for its 52nd year! The free two-day event brings more than 400 arts, crafts, activity, and food vendors to Nevada's oldest settlement, filling the charming town with handmade goods, delicious treats, live entertainment, and plenty of small-town charm. It's a wonderful way to spend a fall weekend exploring the Carson Valley and experiencing one of Nevada's most cherished traditions.

The Best of September in Reno-Tahoe

September is when Reno-Tahoe begins its beautiful transition from summer to fall. The days are still filled with sunshine and outdoor adventures, while cooler evenings and changing colors hint at the season ahead.

Whether you're watching hundreds of hot-air balloons fill the morning sky, enjoying barbecue and live music in Sparks, cheering on a camel in Virginia City, spending a final summer weekend at Lake Tahoe, or exploring the charming streets of historic Genoa, September offers something for everyone.

It's another reminder of why so many people choose to call Reno-Tahoe home. The combination of breathtaking scenery, vibrant community events, four distinct seasons, and an incredible outdoor lifestyle continues to make Northern Nevada one of the most desirable places to live in the West.

At Sullivan-Neal Luxury Real Estate, led by Brooke Sullivan and Heather Neal, Nevada's #1 real estate team, we're proud to share the lifestyle that makes this region so extraordinary. Whether you're buying, selling, or investing in Reno-Tahoe real estate, we're here to guide you with expertise, local insight, and a genuine passion for the community we proudly call home.