The newest issue of Nevada Magazine features the one and only, Reno Tahoe! We couldn’t help but share these breath-taking images and well written articles on our favorite destination. Features in the magazine include the area’s top ski resorts (including the largest ski resort in the US!), the Black Rock Desert beyond Burning Man (their photos will wow you), lakes, parks, towns, venues…. everything you’d want to know!

Want your own copy? Take advantage of Groupon’s 50% off deal through 10/22! http://www.groupon.com/deals/nevada-magazine-2 .

Join the Eldorado in celebrating the 30^th Annual Great Italian Festival Saturday, October 8 and Sunday, October 9.

For 30 years, crowds from near and far return to the Italian Fest to indulge in fan favorites; including, the Grape Stomp, Sauce Cookers Competition, an Italian Farmer’s Market and everyone’s favorite homemade Italian Buffet.  A few new highlights are adding more Italian flavor to the mix in what promises to be a robust celebration of everything Italy.

The fun runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.  Try your hand at the art of wine making during the Grape Stomp, open to Festival-goers of all ages Saturday or play a bit of Bocce Ball on the Eldorado’s Train Trench Plaza.  The Bocce Tournament for competitive players begins Saturday at 8 a.m. with a $10 signup fee.  Not sure how to play?  Stop by Sunday for free beginner and family play starting at 10 a.m.

Competition at the Italian Festival isn’t all about Bocce Ball, it’s also about who makes the best pasta sauce.  A crowd favorite year after year continues to be the Great Italian Festival Sauce Cook-off.  Italian families from across the west coast bring their “secret recipes” to life right on the street for guests to taste.  Pasta tasting plates will be sold for $2 at the Spaghetti Booth on the corner of Fourth and Virginia Streets from starting at 1 p.m. daily.  Don’t wait, they go fast!

New to the 30^th Annual Italian Festival is the fastest product of Italy; the Ferrari Club of America will have dozens of Ferraris lining the Plaza on the south side of the Eldorado for the weekend.  Other newcomers are on the entertainment lineup, including Tammurriatarock!, a jam-band from Italy that mixes Italian world music with a reggae and Latin flare and Nick D’Egidio, famous Frank Sinatra impersonator.  Returning Italian Festival favorites include Moreno Fruzzetti and 2010 Festival sensation Mitch Franco.

No Italian Festival would be complete without plenty of homemade Italian food!  The Eldorado’s Famous Italian Dinner Buffet will be served in the Eldorado Convention Center at 4 p.m. on Saturday and in The Buffet on Saturday and Sunday.  Enjoy a special array of Italian dishes will be served, including Veal Tortelloni, Ricotta and Spinach Canneloni, Cioppino, Steamed Clams and Linguini, Turkey Scallopine with Marsala and Mushrooms, Eggplant Parmesan and an assortment of homemade Italian Salads and desserts, including our famous gelato and tiramisu!

Great tastes are also available street side—grab a handmade pasta sampler with Tortellini Eldorado, Meat Ravioli Bolognese and Penne with Pesto or try the creamy Risotto.  Other specialties include Sausage and Peppers with Polenta and of course, delicious Garlic Bread.

Join in as Reno celebrates the 30^th Annual Great Eldorado Italian Festival on Saturday and Sunday, October 8 and 9.  For more details, photos and other Italian Festival information visit www.eldoradoreno.com or call 775-786-5700.

August 29 – September 5, over 50,000 participants gather to create Black Rock City in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert, dedicated to community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance. They depart one week later, having created unbelievable artistic experiences, and having left no trace whatsoever.

Live video from your Android device on Ustream

In advance of its Sept. 10 grand opening, the world-class Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum (The Discovery) is auctioning off an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The Discovery will welcome the winning bidder and 24 guests to be the first to spend a ‘Night Under the Clouds’ in the museum. The 25 lucky individuals will experience more than 12 hours of unlimited access to the museum and each of its eight hands-on galleries. The auction will close on Thursday, Sept 1 at 9:20am with 100 percent of the proceeds to benefit the museum’s annual operational costs. Bidding starts at $1,000 and can be entered at http://www.nvdm.org/firstnight/.

The ‘Night Under the Clouds’ will include food, refreshments and an abundance of fun activities throughout the evening, incorporating a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum, uninterrupted play in each gallery and group activities lead by The Discovery’s educators. Each member of the winning bidder’s party will receive a $25 museum store gift certificate and commemorative t-shirt. Additionally, the winning bidder will receive a one-year Traveling Membership for their family.

The Discovery, located in the former Reno City Hall building, is home to eight hands-on learning exhibits that focus on the northern Nevada region, nature, science, art and society. The museum serves children birth to 12 years old and offers a unique educational learning environment that inspires creativity and innovative thinking. For the latest information on The Discovery, to purchase memberships, or to sign up as a volunteer, visit www.nvdm.org or call (775) 786-1000.

ABOUT THE DISCOVERY

The Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum will inspire curiosity, creativity and the joy of lifelong learning for all children and families. Upon opening, the museum will provide opportunities to discover science, art and local history through open-ended, interactive and fun exhibits and hands-on educational programs. Explore a cave, build a house, race across Nevada, and climb into the clouds – these are just some of the many adventures offered at The Discovery.

If you’re heading to the playa for Burning Man and need to know what to bring and where to get it we have you covered. Here is a list of tips and shops in the Reno-Sparks area where you will find the essentials to make your visit to Black Rock City smooth and memorable.

Weather

For those of you who don’t know desert weather, the days are hot and the nights are cold.

Daytime temperatures routinely exceed 100º F. Sunscreen, lip balm and skin lotion are your three best friends on the playa. Drinking up to one gallon of water per person per day is the rule of thumb. Remember to eat proper salty foods to prevent electrolyte imbalance.

Some signs that you may not be drinking enough water:

• You don’t carry a water bottle with you at all times.
• You swill instead of drinking deeply.
• You wait to drink until you’re thirsty – too late!
• Your urine is anything but clear and abundant.
• You become cranky.

Overnight lows in the 40’s can seem exceptionally cold after extensive daytime sun, so you’ll want to bring warm clothing and a good sleeping bag.

High recommendation: bring goggles. Dust storms can prowl the playa in packs or sweep in a broadened front across the plain at any moment.

Clothing

Outfits are crucial on the playa. Burners are encouraged to express themselves and wear what may not normally be accepted around town and at the office – so get creative.  By visiting these clothing stores and costume shops, you will find everything you’ll need from EL-wire kits to exotic fabrics to create the perfect ensemble:

The Melting Pot World Emporium

PolyEsther’s Costume Boutique

Junkee Clothing Exchange

Chocolate Walrus

Prism Magic Clothing & Imports

Bikes

A bicycle (with a bike light) is vital for enjoying the vast and burgeoning metropolis. Remember, Black Rock City turns into a decent size “town” with over 50,000 people. Here are a few shops where you can pick up your playa transportation:

Black Rock Bicycles

Bicycle Bananas

Reno Bike Project

Great Basin Bicycles

Food

It is crucial to bring plenty of food and water with you on your Burning Man journey so stop by these great retailers to stock up before you head out:

Save Mart Supermarket – 525 Keystone Ave.

Trader Joe’s – 5035 South McCarran Blvd.

Whole Foods Market – 6139 South Virginia St.

Simply Water- 1070 Gentry Way

Gear

The only thing sold on the playa is ice and coffee, so don’t forget any camping necessities such as tents, flashlights, batteries, shade, and water containers. Check out:

Cabelas

Scheels

Twin City Surplus

Sierra Trading Post

For more tips, check out the Survival Guide.

Check out our pictures from last year on Flickr.

Experience the history of the Virginia & Truckee Railroad at the 6^th annual Virginia City/Carson City Railfest on Saturday August 13 and Sunday August 14. Step into the shoes of our yesteryears and celebrate by riding the historic rails on a Stream Train from Carson City to Virginia City and back. Train rides are available all weekend and are a great experience for the whole family.

On Saturday, pose for a picture with legendary western characters at the Virginia City Living Legends Photo Op in the Delta Saloon parking lot. After you have your memorable picture taken, stop by the F street Train Depot to experience how the American Civil War helped shape the country we live in today at the Battle Born Civil War Reenactors Educational Booth. For adults 21 and over, escape the Comstock and relax on a romantic full moon evening train on the Moon Over the Comstock V & T Ride. This tranquil journey includes a light box dinner and a glass of wine in a souvenir Railfest wine glass.

Head over to the Nevada State Railroad Museum on Sunday to see and learn all about the trains that traveled along the V & T Railroad, as well as other locomotives and cars made famous in movies and on television.

For overnight accommodations in Virginia City and more information on this and other events happening in Virginia City, log on to www.VisitVirginiaCityNV.com or call the Virginia City Visitor Center at (775) 847-4FUN (4386) or (800) 718-SLVR (7587).

During Hot August Nights, Reno Tahoe has more events happening around town than anyone could ever dream of attending. We know this can be a bit overwhelming, so we’ve made a list to highlight a few of our “do not miss” events each night. For the full event schedule, click here.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 9

2 pm to 6 pm              Summit Racing Equipment Show-n-Shine – 960 E. Glendale Ave., Sparks

3 pm to 5 pm              Local’s Classic Car Show-n-Shine Competition – Peppermill Resort Spa Casino Reno

Entertainment

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm                            Hairspray – Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

Grand Sierra Resort

8 pm                            Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo – Tickets from $25, $45, $65. Call 800-648-3568 or go to www.grandsierraresort.com.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10

9 am to 4 pm              Grand Sierra Resort Daily Classic Cherry Shown – Shine - Awards presented nightly at 7 pm on the venue stage.

5 pm to 10 pm            Cruise of Champions – Atlantis Casino Resort Spa

6 pm                            Jelly Donut Eating Contest – Atlantis Casino Resort Spa

7 pm to 10 pm            Official Kick-off Cruise- Downtown Reno

7 pm to 10 pm            Controlled Cruise – Downtown Sparks

Entertainment

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm                            Hairspray – Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11

12 pm to 10 pm          Hot August Nights Drags & Burnouts Presented by John Ascuaga’s Nugget & Full Throttle Performance – John Ascuaga’s Nugget. West Parking Lot

3 pm to 5 pm              Peppermill Night Life Show-n-Shine Competition – Peppermill Resort Spa Casino Reno

8 pm to 11 pm            Hot August Nights 25th Anniversary Prom – “Evening Under The Stars.” Sponsored by Circus Circus. Entertainment by Ronny & The Classics. Mandalay Ballroom. Tickets $15 in advance/$20 at the door- Call 800-648-5010 or 775-789-5604.

Entertainment

Grand Sierra Resort

8:15 pm                       HERMAN’S HERMITS STARRING PETER NOONE

Victorian Square – Sparks

8:15 pm                       “OH WHAT A NIGHT” A TRIBUTE TO FRANKIE VALLI AND THE FOUR SEASONS – Stage Presented by John Ascuaga’s Nugget & The City of Sparks.

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm                            Hairspray – Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

Harrah’s Reno

8 pm                            Sammy Davis Jr. Tribute Show. Tickets are $25/$29, call 775-778-2900 for reservations or go to www.harrahsreno.com.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12

2 pm                            Free Classic Film Festival - Rebel Without A Cause. John Ascuaga’s Nugget.  Celebrity Showroom.

7:30 pm to 8 pm         Kids Show-n-Shine Competition – All Ages Welcome. Peppermill Resort Spa Casino Reno.

9:45 pm                       Hot August Nights Fireworks Spectacular – Silver Legacy Resort Casino.

Entertainment

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm                            Hairspray. Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

Harrah’s Reno

8 pm                            Sammy Davis Jr. Tribute Show. Tickets are $25/$29, call 775-778-2900 for reservations or go to www.harrahsreno.com.

Silver Legacy Resort Casino

8 pm                            DOO WOP. The Flamingos featuring Terry Johnson, Barbara Harris & The Toys, The Marcels, The Safaris, Kathy Young, Joe Jones & The Pentagons, & The Olympics. Tickets from $50, $69.50. Call the Silver Legacy Resort Casino at 800-MUST-SEE or ticketmaster.com or silverlegacy.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13

8 am to 10 pm            Hot August Nights Official Classic Car Auction – Reno-Sparks Convention Center.

10 am to 3 pm            John Ascuaga’s Nugget Peoples Choice Award - Pick up judging ballot at John’s Club booth.

10 am to 5 pm            Big Boy’s Toy Store - Reno-Sparks Events Center, Downtown Reno – Presented by the Silver Legacy Resort Casino and the Eldorado Hotel Casino.

Entertainment

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm & 9:30 pm          Hairspray. Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

Harrah’s Reno

8 pm                            Sammy Davis Jr. Tribute Show. Tickets are $25/$29, call 775-778-2900 for reservations or go to www.harrahsreno.com.

Silver Legacy Resort Casino

8 pm                            DICK FOX’S GOLDEN BOYS STARRING FRANKIE AVALON, FABIAN & BOBBY RYDELL. Tickets from $65 & $80. Call the Silver Legacy Resort Casino at 800-MUST-SEE or ticketmaster.com or silverlegacy.com.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 14

10 am                          Official Parade – Downtown Reno

Entertainment

Eldorado Hotel Casino

7 pm                            Hairspray. Tickets start at $24.95 – Dinner & Show. Packages Available. To order tickets call 775-786-5700 or 800-879-8879 or go to www.eldoradoreno.com.

Harrah’s Reno

8 pm                            Sammy Davis Jr. Tribute Show. Tickets are $25/$29, call 775-778-2900 for reservations or go to www.harrahsreno.com.

For some, Reno, Nevada is known for the same vibrant nightlife and gambling outlets as Las Vegas – but on a smaller and more intimate scale. Obvious tourist attractions include shopping, restaurants, singers, comedians and magic shows. But beyond the slot machines and flashing lights, there is a plethora of family-fun activities available.

Go just a short distance out of town though and you will find a treasure trove of non-gambling alternatives that are great for all ages. Here are five family-friendly activities you may want to consider for your next vacation to Reno, Nevada.

Lake Activities

Anglers prize the Reno area for some of the best fly-fishing territory around. You can visit one of the many tackle shops in the area for maps of private and public lakes and river access areas. If you are interested in having a true fisherman’s experience, consider taking a class or attending one of the fly tying clinics and tie your own. There is nothing like catching that two-pound trout on a bumblebee you created with your own two hands.

Only 40 miles from Reno is famous Lake Tahoe, which offers spectacular views, clear mountain air and ample fishing holes for privacy or group activities. Guides are available, or you can pack a picnic basket, quilt and fishing gear and head off on your own for an adventurous day on the water. If you have always wanted “to land that BIG one,” consider visiting Pyramid Lake. This lake proudly boasts they have the largest Cutthroat Trout.

Whether you choose Pyramid Lake, Truckee River, Lake Tahoe or one of the other streams, lakes and rivers near Reno, prepare yourself for a day filled with awesome scenery and relaxing outdoor fun.

Hiking and Trails

Many people think you have to go to Lake Tahoe to enjoy hiking trails that offer hikers challenging terrain. Not true! There are numerous trails in Reno parks and just on the outskirts of the city.  Hikers and trail watchers can find easy, moderate and challenging trails to test their skills and that will suit a variety of levels of physical fitness. You will find short trails that start at about 600 feet and have a gentle slope and more challenging trails that test your endurance.

About eight miles out of town in the gorgeous Sierra Mountains that surround Reno, Nevada, you will find the Tahoe Rim Trail in Galena Regional Park. This trail offers a loop that is just over 9 miles of moderate to mostly steep climbing. Hikers can expect to see desert terrain covered with sage, pine, juniper bushes and the occasional waterfall. Bring lots of film or extra chips for the camera. The views are breathtaking. And remember to pack plenty of water and a few energy bars or a lunch.

Golf

If golf is your game–Reno, Nevada is your destination. There are over 50 golf courses within 90 miles of Reno proper. The PGA stops in Reno for the Reno-Tahoe Open, so you know the greens are great. No matter what your level of expertise, you will be able to find a course to fit your skill. Private lessons are available at most of the courses through resident pros and through guest pass arrangements. Since the high altitude gives golfers a natural advantage, you can expect to hit the ball further with every stroke. Get ready to play the lowest score of your life. If you’re a family with younger kids that aren’t ready for the big green yet, check out the many mini-golf options in the area.

Explore the Past

For a relaxing day with some educational benefits, consider visiting one of the numerous museums in Reno. You can find museums dedicated to a variety of topics. An automobile museum, a museum dedicated to Disney and many others call Reno home. The Wilbur D. May museum is an adventure the entire family can enjoy. The artifacts and collectibles gleaned from years of traveling the world offer an exciting, eclectic blend. The indoor waterfall you’ll find there is always a big hit with kids and adults alike. Remember to check days and hours the museum is opened before planning your day. Some museums have limited hours.

Read, Paint, Write

Many artists enjoy the inspiration they absorb from the desert climate and surrounding rivers and mountains. Writers claim to feel the spirit of the nomadic American Indians. Artist carrying pallet and canvas attempt to capture the delicate yellow flower of the desert cactus in the early morning. Students from the college can be seen relaxing near the river as they search for answers to questions posed by Aristotle.

Visiting Reno is an opportunity to enjoy nature with your family, while having fun and learning, too. Enjoy.

This post was written by freelance writer Martha Keagan who is a full time mother, writer and part time real estate agent. Keagan has assisted hundreds of college students find housing and apartments in Reno for years. Reno is a great city, if you are looking to visit or even relocate to Reno, find a short term apartment to stay in before you decide to purchase a house.

This year Reno Tahoe USA is hosting some of the top Independence Day events and pyrotechnic displays in the nation. It’s a tough call deciding which of these parties to crash but we’ve tried to make it easy for you to see what each event has to offer.

LAKE TAHOE

July 1-4, the fifth annual Red, White and Tahoe Blue celebration in Incline Village offers the perfect getaway for families. They’ve got a patriotic chalk drawing contest, beer tastings, firecracker trail trek, and even a doggie dress up contest for your pup. Needless to say, if you’re looking for a jam-packed weekend with the fam, look no further – after you finish reading this post, of course.

We can’t forget about the 70 feet of snowfall last winter quite yet. Both Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley USA are reopening for the weekend offering discounted tickets and wrapping up the season with huge 4th of July parties. Squaw will also host the famed 21st annual Lake Cushing Crossing on July 3. No one does pond-skimming quite like Squaw Valley. Perhaps it is because men and women in Reno Tahoe are a little more daring, a little more agile and a little better on sticks. Or maybe, it’s because the Cushing Crossing is held on a real pond, rather than a tarp-lined ditch or kiddie pool. We don’t really need a reason; we do it the way we want.

Other local Lake Tahoe events include Tahoe City celebrating 65 years of fireworks at Commons Beach, July 4, and Kings Beach hosting their annual firework display and deck party at the North Tahoe Event Center on July 3.

SPARKS

Experience the biggest 4th of July party in the region, Star Spangled Sparks, at the Sparks Marina. Join thousands to celebrate our freedom at this FREE all day event. Rise bright and early for free hot air balloon rides at 6am and a three dollar all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast. The excitement continues during the day with a fun-run around the Sparks Marina, bounce houses and a ride area for the kids. Later that evening, witness a military flyover moments before the longest and most spectacular pyrotechnic display in the region, you won’t want to miss this 11th annual celebration.

VIRGINIA CITY

Virginia City made the list for the “Top 10 Fourth of July Fireworks 2011.” For us this comes as no surprise as every year thousands journey to the famous, historical city. The event begins with a parade downtown around noon and ends with the Comstock Cowboys performing at dusk along with an extensive fireworks show. The last time Virginia City had this many explosives was back when the city was first discovered as a gold mining jackpot.

PYRAMID LAKE

Do you want to be the party planner? The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe welcomes all those who want to throw their own 4th of July party. Summer season fireworks are now on sale for use on the Pyramid Lake Indian Reservation in designated areas. Create your own fireworks show over North America’s most beautiful desert lake!

The Sparks Heritage Museum became the first Museum in Nevada to incorporate I-pad technology into their exhibits.  Thanks to a grant from the Ben Snow Foundation, the Museum has been working to create a more interactive experience which will appeal to patrons of all ages.   The first exhibit, the I-pads, will appear in the new Sparks in Space exhibit. 

It is a little know fact that the rockets that got the first man on and off the moon were developed and tested right here in Spanish Springs, at the Nevada Field Laboratory, a facility operated by Rocket dyne.  In partnership with the Challenger Learning Center of Northern Nevada, the Sparks in Space exhibit presents an in-depth look at the US space program with an emphasis on manned space flight and the role the City of Sparks has played.   The three major topics include: “From Railroads to Rockets,” “Animals in Space,” and “The Next Generation.” 

 From Railroads to Rockets

Most people know Sparks began as a railroad town. Now, thanks to an oral history project conducted by Dick Dreiling, a Museum Board Member, the important role Sparks played in the development of space transportation systems is documented and on exhibit for all to learn.   Fun interactive bonuses include the new I-pads kiosks in the Space exhibit, as well as in the Museum’s Railroad Room.  Children can learn about outer space on apps researched and selected by the Sparks High School Astronomy students. Visitors can have their picture taken looking like an astronaut, or try their hand at piloting a space craft and landing on the moon using the “Return to Camelot” simulator.

Animals in Space

It just so happened that the Museum Docent is the Veterinarian who supervised the mice that went to the Moon on the Apollo 17 mission –  Dr. Richard Simmonds.  Not only does he volunteer at the museum teaching visitors about Truckee Meadows history, but he is also a Challenger Center Board Member.  His passion for teaching is evident in the exhibit. Visitors can learn about various animal astronauts including dogs, mice, fish and primates, and see first-hand the prototype of the “mouse hotel” that Dr. Simmonds helped develop to care for the mice on their journey into outer space.   Interestingly, the species of mice that travelled into space exist in the deserts of Nevada and were chosen as they require very little water to survive.

Over the next six months, the Museum will offer a series of activities focusing on the different topics featured in the Sparks in Space exhibit, including dome programs, movies, poetry readings and lectures.     Blast off with your family at the Sparks Heritage Museum! 

The Sparks Heritage Museum is located at 814 Victorian Avenue, Sparks on the corner of Pyramid Way. 

The Museum is open  Saturdays and Sundays 1 pm to 4 pm, Tuesday to Friday 11 am to 4 pm

ADMISSION:  $5 for Adults, Children 12 and under Free.  Active Military and their families are FREE.   

For more details please call (775) 355-1144.