Gabbi Hall
High desert heat can’t stop the fun in Reno, Nevada—especially since it’s such an easy escape to Lake Tahoe to enjoy the water, too. And events are part of what makes summer so special. Here are just a few of my favorite events every summer in the Biggest Little City.
Biggest Little City Wing Fest
20,000 lbs of chicken wings dished up over two days in July. From friend chicken to buffalo wings to “dessert” wings, it’s where eclectic flavor meets live music in the summer heat. Check out my full Biggest Little City Wing Fest post.
And don’t forget to check out all the classic cars at Hot August Nights or the epic sauces at Italian Fest, too.
Great Reno Balloon Race
The Great Reno Balloon Race always marks the end of summer and start of fall for me. For 3 days, 100+ balloons take off from Rancho San Rafael Park at sunrise, putting on a spectacle that’ll make anyone feel the wonder. (Pro-tip: In 2025, they are inviting the public to join the media day festivities on Thursday morning. It’s not the full fan fare, but fewer crowds and easier parking.) Check out my full overview of the hot air balloon event here.
Classical Tahoe
Just a short drive from Reno to Incline Village, you’ll find Classical Tahoe events on the UNR, Lake Tahoe campus through July and August. This is world-class quality performances by jazz musicians, orchestras, soloists and dancers in the woods of Lake Tahoe. Be mesmerized by the sounds and the sunset.
They open up the patio area early for drinks from the bar, and there are tables so you can bring your own picnic to enjoy before hand. And I know what you’re thinking—how fun can an event on a college campus be? Let me tell you: UNR, Lake Tahoe is not your typical campus. Formerly Sierra Nevada University, it’s like being around ski lodges that people happen to study in. It’s truly magical.
Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival
Last year, I partnered with Reno Tahoe to share the wonder of these shows, but I’ve been a fan long before that Patsy Cline performance. You see, Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival (sometimes referred to as Shakespeare on the Lake) and other non-Shakespearean shows take place at the Sand Harbor amphitheater with a view of one of the most gorgeous beaches on the entire lake. Bahama-blue water. Stunning sunsets. Light summer breezes. Any show is spectacular when you’re here.
They also have a full selection of food and wine available for purchase, so you can take your time and enjoy the experience from start to finish.
Summer Concert Series at the Lake Tahoe Amphitheater
A bit farther from Reno (about 1 hr and 15 min) on the south shore of Lake Tahoe, you’ll find huge headliners rolling through the summer fun. Dave Matthews Band is amongst the regulars. Hozier is gracing us with his presence in 2025 along with Jon Pardi, Weird Al Yankovic and a host of other stars.
Hosted at Caesars Republic’s Lake Tahoe Amphitheater you can be dazzled and dance under the stars.
