Ultimate Guide to Christmas and Holiday Events in Reno and Sparks

Christmas and holiday activities, events, and shows in Reno feature Philharmonic concerts, Christmas tree lights, festive celebrations, holiday festivals, shopping, singing, and even several ballets. You won’t need to spend a lot of money to enjoy family fun during this season, as many free holiday activities are available throughout the Reno and Tahoe areas.

From performances of “The Nutcracker” ballet to a lively Santa Pub Crawl in Reno, Northern Nevada is full of holiday adventures for families and friends to relish during this joyous season.

The Reno Santa Pub Crawl

Each year in early December, a variety of Santas, Mrs. Clauses, elves, and other holiday beings take to the streets of downtown Reno for the Reno Santa Pub Crawl. This festive party starts at one of several bars and includes dozens of watering holes scattered around the neighborhood.

Guests can get a crawl map at one of the seven official start bars and enjoy drinks at any or all of the participating bars. Participation in the Reno Santa Pub Crawl is free; however, guests must purchase their drinks and wear a Santa suit to join in the fun.

It is essential to note that the Crawl is an adult drinking event, and there will be big bouncers checking IDs. Additionally, the Reno Santa Crawl acts as a charity fundraiser, with proceeds supporting local schools through DonorsChoose.org.

Spirit of the Season by the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra

In early December, the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra invites guests to celebrate a timeless holiday tradition featuring special guests, including Santa Tappers and Santa Claus himself.

Due to its popularity, Spirit of the Season often sells out quickly. It’s advisable to secure tickets early, available through the Reno Philharmonic Box Office located at 925 Riverside Drive Suite 3 in Reno.

Various Performances of “The Nutcracker” in Reno

The stage at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts comes alive with a sugar plum fairy and dancing mice as A.V.A. Ballet Theatre presents its Nutcracker Ballet, accompanied by the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra. This production marks a celebrated tradition, with the latest performance being the 24th annual showcase.

For further details, visit the official Pioneer Center website where you can also find information about other upcoming performances, including the exciting concert “Mozart’s Requiem.”

The Mousehole Family Christmas Extravaganza

The Brüka Theatre in Reno is renowned for its innovative theatrical productions, offering a mix of contemporary, classic, and children’s shows throughout the year. During the holiday season, laughter takes center stage.

Experience “The 12 Days of Christmas” reimagined through the Bruka Theatre’s “The Mousehole Family Christmas Extravaganza,” a comedic adventure showcasing family gifting in a unique light, influenced by the ghosts of Christmas Presents and Consciousness.

Multiple performances are scheduled throughout December, and additional details are available on the Bruka Theatre’s official website.

Christmas Events at the May Museum in Washoe County

Visit the Wilbur D. May Museum for the annual Tuba Christmas Concert, a family-friendly event featuring holiday carols arranged in four-part harmony performed by local tuba, baritone, and euphonium players. Guests can enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and festive decorations displayed at the May Museum, all at no cost.

The May Museum also invites visitors to celebrate the season with a Steampunk twist during the Yule Steam Expo. This engaging weekend will host workshops, panels, and live entertainment.

Reno Pops Holiday Concert

Join the Reno Pops Orchestra for its complimentary concert, “A Charles Dickens Christmas,” held at the South Reno Baptist Church. Guests can anticipate a blend of music from the Leslie Bricusse musical “Scrooge,” along with classic holiday tunes such as The March of the Toys, Winter Wonderland, A Christmas Festival, and the beloved Carol of the Bells. The performance will feature soloists Jennifer Hildebrand, Aldo Perelli, and the South Reno Baptist Choir.

Families are welcome, with a fun sing-along portion included, along with a special visit from Santa. Admission is free, making it an excellent opportunity for holiday enjoyment.

Holiday Events at the Washoe County Library

Throughout December, the Washoe County Library hosts an array of Christmas and non-holiday events designed to lift the spirits of both children and adults. Activities include movie nights, potluck gatherings, visits from Santa, Christmas storytimes, and gingerbread craft nights, making the library a fantastic destination for holiday cheer this season.

In past years, the library showcased screenings of classics like “The Polar Express,” numerous retellings of Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and special showings of “The Santa Clause.” These events create delightful opportunities for community engagement and festive fun.

Sparks Hometowne Christmas Celebration

The Sparks Hometowne Christmas Celebration begins on December 1st with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and continues with the lively Sparks Hometowne Christmas Parade, traveling east to west along Victorian Avenue. This award-nominated parade is noted for its humorous and spirited interpretation of the season.

Past parades have featured Santa riding a jet ski, snowmen enjoying ribs, and elves cruising in a vintage ’65 Mustang. Highlight moments included a lively retelling involving seasonal quirks, showcasing the imaginative flair of the participants.