There are a lot of reasons to be thankful this Thanksgiving. In addition to our loving fans and family, we have 7 more reasons Reno Tahoe is the place to spend your Thanksgiving holiday.

1. We encourage you to step away from the roaster

Relax. Let us take care of Thanksgiving this year, we’ll even do all of your dishes – said no one ever …said our culinary experts!!

2. Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts are OPEN

Snow dumped the mountains allowing ski resorts to open early, then the storm cleared out for a blue sky Thanksgiving weekend… Mother Nature, we thank you!

3. Party Thanksgiving Eve at BuBinga

NYE has some friendly competition. Before the family dysfunction and food-induced coma, burn off that extra helping stuffing and gravy by dancing the night away at BuBinga Lounge. Feast on $3 drink specials – like pumpkin pie shots, Wild Turkey and Coors Lights.

4. It’s Opening Weekend of Rink on the River

There is nothing like introducing the holidays with a few laps around the ice rink, hot cocoa in hand, and taking in the sights of Reno’s downtown Christmas tree glistening next to the Truckee River.

5. Time for the annual Scheels Turkey Trot

Trot away extra calories with friends and family, and give thanks to good health Thanksgiving morning at the Sparks Marina.

6. There is a wide variety of entertainment lined up

What do Rodney Carrington, Alice Cooper and The Commodores have in common? Not much, aside from they are famous and performing in Reno Tahoe Thanksgiving weekend!

7. Hotel deals!

Stay and ski packages, 3^rd night FREE, our hotels want you to sleep comfortably this holiday season.

Downtown Reno’s Rink on the River is scheduled to open Tuesday, November 20, through Sunday, February 3!

Whether you’ve mastered a triple axel, it’s your first time on ice, or you’re looking to spectate, the Rink on the River makes everyone giddy for the winter season.

Reno’s Holiday Tree Lighting marks the opening of Rink on the River

On Tuesday, November 20, at 4:30pm, the event begins with charming carolers. At 5:15, Mayor Bob Cashell will light the tree, declaring the rink open!

The Rink is located at the corner of First and Virginia Street along the Truckee River.

Plan and experience all that Reno Tahoe USA has to offer. From event listings to coupons, snow reports to golf information, this application has everything you will need to make the best out of your trip. If you are already in town, simply turn on the location service and only see things that are within walking distance.

Here is what you can do with the Reno Tahoe USA application:

• Search and view all of the amazing events happening now and in the future
• Browse our complete hotel database and find the perfect place to stay
• Find a restaurant that matches your mood
• Explore all of the shopping available in Reno and Lake Tahoe
• View coupons from many of our great partners – For you golfers, the app displays everything you need to pick a course, including yardage, par, cost and much more
• And for the skiers, boarders and snow lovers, the app has everything you need to pick the perfect resort including pricing, lift status and more

“There are so many choices for entertainment, special events, outdoor adventure and relaxation in Reno, Sparks and North Lake Tahoe that it can be difficult for visitors to narrow down their options before they get here,” said RSCVA President and CEO Christopher Baum. “More and more visitors are relying on mobile technology to point them in the right direction for information on their passions at any given moment, and the new Reno Tahoe USA app provides visitors with more information, and more control, of their overall travel experience.”

The Reno Tahoe USA app provides potential visitors with information on which hotels may be best suited to their needs; what concerts, events and entertainment will be offered during their visit; where they can get outdoors to enjoy the fresh air, ski resorts and golf courses; as well as where they might find a great restaurant, a world-class spa or unique shopping throughout the destination. Once visitors are here, the app uses their location to help them find activities of interest within walking distance. The app also provides easy access to a variety of coupons, deals and discounts offered by dozens of local businesses.

In support of the popular “buy local” campaigns being launched in destinations across the country, the RSCVA worked with Reno-based KPS3 Marketing to develop the Reno Tahoe USA app, which it designed to maximize, and to simplify, the number of options presented to visitors.

“Travelers have come to depend on their phone for guidance in new destinations,” said KPS3 Vice President of Creative and Technical Services Rob Gaedtke. “This application puts visitors in control of that experience and allows the RSCVA to share the myriad offerings found in the Reno Tahoe area.”

The RSCVA and its partners are also making the new Reno Tahoe USA app more than just a source of information. One new user of the Reno Tahoe USA app will be given a three-day, two-night stay, at their choice of the Eldorado Hotel Casino or Silver Legacy Resort Casino, each month through October 2013.

The Reno Tahoe USA app can be downloaded at the iPhone Mobile App Store, the Android Google Play Store or at www.VisitRenoTahoe.com/mobile.

We love Nevada, and we have a feeling we are not alone. The jubilant mood spreading amongst Nevadans as we near October 31 is not only because we get a holiday at work and school (conveniently near/on Halloween) to honor the place we live – although it’s certainly a perk – but we have some serious pride in our state. Below is a listing of events where you can join us in celebration of our favorite holiday, Nevada Day!

Sparks Historic Walking Tour

October 26, in Sparks

Celebrate Nevada Day and learn about the history of downtown Sparks.  This one hour walking tour includes 18 buildings and spots that have played an important role in the history and development of Sparks and Nevada.

Your guide, Scott Carey, grew up in Sparks and since working on the Sparks Centennial Commission has been actively working on projects to preserve and enhance the history of this great community.

Tours are every hour on the hour. All Proceeds benefit the Sparks Museum.

Nevada Day Parade

October 27, in Carson City

Celebrate the Silver State’s 148^th birthday with the largest formal statehood celebration in the nation! Enjoy the parade, arts show, carnival, pancake breakfast, run/walk, music, World Championship Single Jack Drilling Contest, Beard Contest and a slate of other activities.

Visit NevadaDay.com for a complete listing of Nevada Day events throughout the Silver State.

If you’re looking for family friendly Halloween excitement, you’re in luck. Reno Tahoe USA has a calendar packed with unique tricks and treats that you and your family won’t soon forget.

Free Trick or Treat Street – Circus Circus Reno

October 26, 5-8pm

Dive into Halloween fun for the whole family at Circus Circus Reno’s fifth annual Free Trick or Treat Street, where everyone will enjoy free candy, treats, games and giveaways! Witness the thrills and chills on the Midway as international circus stars take the stage for a dazzling show of acrobatics, talented K-9s and Russian contortionists. Costumes are encouraged, so get creative and have a spooky family picture taken in front of the Halloween back drop.

Halloween Hollow – Riverwalk District

October 27, 4-7pm

Halloween excitement is soaring to new levels with free family games, live music, bounce houses, a doggie costume contest and free trick-or-treating. But this trick or treating isn’t just for the costumed candy seeking youngsters – bring your pets along too! Grab a “treasure map” and venture to the participating Riverwalk District merchants, collecting candy for your ghosts and goblins, and dog treats your furry friends.

Halloween Trick or Treat – Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum

October 27, 5:30-9:30pm

Bring the kids and join the second annual Halloween Trick or Treat at the The Discovery, featuring Halloween themed art projects, spooky science demonstrations, a cardboard maze and trick or treating form gallery to gallery. Admission is only $2 for children and adults, and children under the age of 1 are free.

Safe Zone for Trick or Treating – Legends at Sparks Marina

October 31, 5-7pm

Offering parents some peace of mind, Legends at Sparks Marian is hosting a FREE trick or treat throughout the mall, ensuring a safe environment for little ones. In addition to candy, kids will have a blast with bounce houses and facing painting as well. Costumes are required, but Legends asks that you leave the masks at home. Be sure to stop by Scheels in your costume and receive a FREE             ride on the Ferris wheel.

Here’s a few more family friendly Halloween events to look forward to:

Thrill the World – October 27

V&T Pumpkin Express Trains – October 27

Goblin Parade in Virginia City – October 31

V&T Haunted Halloween Evening Train – October 31

Looking for some Halloween fun for adults? Check out our Reno’s Haunted Nightlife blog.

It’s Halloween season in Reno Tahoe USA and we’re celebrating with endless parties, drink specials, costume contest and turning over downtown Reno to the beer-craving undead. Here’s what to expect:

Reno Zombie Crawl

The walking dead are taking over downtown Reno on October 27, but don’t run away from this swarm of beer thirsty zombies, join them! Pick up a commemorative cup and map for $5, and enjoy drink specials at more than 40 bars. Get your cups and maps early at Junkee Clothing Exchange, Melting Pot World Emporium, Doll House, Chocolate Walrus or Prism Magic. They will also be available the night of the crawl at participating bars. The Zombie Crawl kicks off 8:00 pm, but you won’t want to miss the massive Pre-Crawl Thriller Dance under the Reno Arch at 7:00 pm.

Eldorado Hotel Casino

Get ready for two nights full of fighting fun as the Halloween spirit takes over Eldorado Hotel Casino for the Freakin’ Weekend, October 26-27. You’re in for a treat with amazing drink specials and $6,500 in cash prizes for the best dressed patrons as Bubinga Lounge transforms into the Zombie Lounge, The Brew Brothers becomes The Blood Brothers, Roxy’s Bar Lounge transfigures into Ghost Lounge, Cin Cin turns into Sin Sin and Stadium Bar becomes Stadium Spider Bar.  Check out the full schedule on Eldorado’s events page.

EDGE Nightspot

For a killer good time, don’t miss the sinfully fun Halloween parties at Edge Nightspot inside the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino. Party into the early morning hours on October 27 during Skin & Scare, featuring Reno’s top DJ’s, delicious libations, and $6,000 in cash prizes and costume contests- including $2,500 for the sexiest and scariest.

On October 31, join DJ E-Rock, the official DJ for the San Francisco Giants, for the The Night of the Dead. Be sure to wear your best costume as $1,500 will be awarded to the sexiest and $1,500 to the most bizarre, along with another $1,000 in random cash giveaways.

Silver Legacy Resort Casino

Scary and sexy collide at the 12^th annual Wild Erotic Ball, October 26, at the Grand Exposition Hall inside Silver Legacy Resort Casino. Join one of the hottest Halloween parties in town where the most erotic female, most erotic tandem and most unique costumes will win cash and other prizes. Tickets are available for $20 in advance or $25 at the door and costumes are required.

John Ascuaga’s Nugget

Saddle up and get on down to the Halloween Hoedown on October 27, and dance the night away with live music from Rick Hays & American Steel. Be sure to wear your costumes to receive great drink specials and to enter the $1,000 costume contest. The hoedown kicks off at 9:00 pm at the Casino Cabaret.

CommRow

DJ’s Kentot, Fredy G and Boom are in the mix all night for the 5^th annual Fright Fest, October 27, at Cargo inside CommRow. Win cash and prizes for the scariest couple, naughtiest nurse and most creative male and female.  This bash is for everyone 18 and over, with a full bar for those 21 and up.

For more information on everything Halloween in Reno Tahoe USA, please visit our events page.

Renoites know and love good beer… extra emphasis on the “good.”  Several professional local brewers have taken on the challenge to satisfy the thirst of beer lovers, knowing what it takes to maintain Reno’s high standards. Two more breweries are added to that list today, October 17, The Brewer’s Cabinet and Brasserie Staint James!

Brasserie Saint James Grand Opening

Opening: October 17, 11am

About: An old world style craft brewery and restaurant located in the historic Crystal Springs building in Reno, NV.

Location: 901 South Center Street

Beer Menu

The Brewer’s Cabinet Grand Opening

Opening: October 17, 6pm

About: A Nano-Brewpub designed with the idea of creating fresh, exciting and unique beers. Our small batch brewery allows us the flexibility not to be limited by popular fads, current trends or industry pressure in crafting our beers.

Location: 475 S. Arlington Ave

Beer Menu

Members of the American Cowboys Team Roping Association (ACTRA) are saddling up in Reno Tahoe to  compete in the 30^th annual Wrangler/Professionals Choice ACTRA National Finals at the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center. From October 20-27, enjoy eight days packed with cowboy action as the nation’s most talented team ropers lock horns to earn the top honors in their divisions.

ACTRA, the largest non-profit team roping association in the country, presents the National Finals as the crowning glory for its members, offering ropers an additional chance to win prize money and bragging rights before the season comes to a close. Contestants come from all over the western United States and Canada, ranging in age from teenagers to competitors in their 80s, all vying for the same dream – becoming a national team roping champion.

In addition to the exciting competition in the arena, enjoy the western art show and shopping at a variety of vendor booths. For a complete schedule, click here.

For more Reno Tahoe excitement, please visit our events page.

The Atlantis Casino Resort Spa is honoring breast cancer survivors throughout the month of October with a complimentary 30 minute spa treatment. Patrons have the choice of being pampered with a ManiCure, PediCure or Pretty in Pink Massage or Facial.

The Atlantis is a proud supporter of the fight against breast cancer and is offering everybody the chance to join the fight through their exclusive spa treatments. For every Pretty in Pink treatment purchased during the month of October, Spa Atlantis will donate $5 to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure in Northern Nevada.

The Pretty in Pink treatments feature an exclusive blend of pomegranate and spice scented body butter soufflés, soothing scrubs and nourishing oils that will leave you feeling relaxed and proud at the same time. Here’s a look at each package:

ManiCure For the Cause

• 60 minutes – $50

PediCure For the Cause

• 60 minutes – $80

Pretty in Pink Massage

• 60 minutes – $105
• 90 minutes – $155

Pretty in Pink Facial

• 60 minutes – $100
• 90 minutes – $130

For more great spa options, visit the Reno Tahoe USA spa and wellness guide.

When Ronnie Deribas and Danielle Garcia tie the knot on October 13^th, they might want to leave “Till death do us part,” out of their vows. Ronnie and Danielle are the lucky winners of the inaugural Zombie Wedding Give-Away, taking place after sunset at Junkee Clothing Exchange.

As the winners, soon to be Mr. and Mrs. Deribas are receiving the ultimate undead wedding package; including, a zombified  wedding dress, tuxedos and bridesmaid dresses, professional zombie makeup for the entire wedding party, a zombie minister, dead flowers, and, of course, a zombie wedding cake (brains not included).

Before the nuptials, watch the walking dead strut down a killer runway during the Zombie Fashion Show, beginning at 3:00 pm. This is a fashion show like no other, where the not-so-living models will showcase the latest in zombie apocalypse trends. It’s the perfect opportunity to get some tips for your Reno Zombie Crawl costume!

Join the excitement with Reno’s trendiest living dead and watch Ronnie and Danielle say “I do” in full zombie garb. For information on more ghoulish fun this October, please visit the Reno Tahoe USA events calendar.