Summer is the special- events season around the country, and northern Nevada has its share, large and small and all unique. The tagline "America's Adventure Place" is proved true this week with rafting, racing and riding, but there's plenty for the art, food and music lovers as well.
Reno goes into 10 of its busiest days starting Thursday when the Reno Rodeo literally kicks off with the Xtreme Bulls competition at the Livestock Events Center at 7 p.m. ($20, $25). Friday night begins eight straight rodeo performances at 7 p.m. culminating in the finals on June 28 ($12-$22).
This is the 89th annual Reno Rodeo and it has become one of the premier competitions on the circuit. Called the "Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West," it pays tribute this year to northern Nevada's ranching present and past.
The annual Reno Rodeo Parade will take place Saturday on North Virginia Street commencing at 10 a.m. A Buckaroo Breakfast of pancakes, sausage and eggs will be served from 7 to 10 a.m. in front of Harrah's Plaza. The event is accompanied by many specialty competitions, displays and a carnival.
Tickets can be purchased at (800) 225-2277.
Further south, Nevada's Carson Valley commences its second annual Magiko, a two-week celebration of summer spotlighting the towns of Minden, Gardnerville and Genoa, as well as Topaz Lake (www.magikonv.com).
Lake Tahoe officially opens for the summer on Friday and the weekend is packed with events, including a block party along Highway 50, the Xtremely Amped Freestyle Moto-X Rock Show, the Flying Elvi Skydiving Team, reggae with Tosh Meets Marley, food vendors and a craft fair. Stateline will feature three stages with entertainment on Saturday from noon to 5 p.m.
The fourth annual Squaw Valley Fine Arts and Crafts Festival takes place Saturday and Sunday at the Village at Squaw Valley, providing an opportunity to meet with more than 40 award-winning artists in photography, paintings, ceramics, and jewelry. (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; pacificfinearts.com)
The Fourth Annual Whitewater Raft and Music Festival is set for Saturday in Reno's Wingfield Park. Participants in the whitewater raft race can expect terrific conditions this time of year, and less physical participants can enjoy the music of Kate Cotter, Smokin' Joe Banana, the Jason King Band, Bad Neighbors, Whiskey Haulers, and Drinking with Clowns. The "Garden of Hope" will offer unique flowers designed by artists and children. Proceeds go to the Angel Kiss Foundation, which provides support for families who have children with cancer " (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; www. angelkissfoundation.org).
