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Fourth of July celebrations
Reno-area celebrations offer something for everyone
There are plenty of options for viewing fireworks in the Reno area. Depending on what you're in the mood for, whether it's an old-fashioned holiday or one with glitz and bombast, check out our list for the festivities.
Sparks
Each year, the city of Sparks, located right next door to Reno, puts on one of the most impressive displays of pyrotechnics in the area. But long before the fireworks go off in Victorian Square, the fun begins at the Sparks Marina. Starting in the morning, the marina is full of activities, music and food for the whole family, including:
6 a.m.: Hot air balloon rides and pancake breakfast.
8 a.m.: Fun run/walk
9 a.m.: Milk carton boat regatta
10 a.m.: Opening ceremony
11 a.m.: Sparks' Got Talent competition
Spend the day soaking up the sun and playing in the water, but make sure you save some energy for the big show.Star Spangled Sparks Fourth of July activities start about 4 p.m. in Victorian Square, downtown Sparks. The event includes lots of free kids' events, vendors selling food and drinks and live entertainment, all topped off by a 20-minute fireworks display at dark, around 9:30 p.m.
The Legends at Sparks Marina will celebrate the Fourth of July this year during the 10th annual Star Spangled Sparks event. The area’s newest attraction has partnered with the Sparks Chamber of Commerce, Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows and John Ascuaga’s Nugget to coordinate the day’s events and provide shuttle service between The Legends, Sparks Marina and Victorian Square. July Fourth activities begin at 6 a.m. at Sparks Marina with shuttle service beginning at 8 a.m. and continuing until midnight. A full slate of free activities and entertainment also takes place throughout The Legends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. including the following:
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Uncle Sam Stilt Walker and Free Balloon Animals and Lemonade Stand
12 – 2 p.m.: Live Music – James Cavanaugh and the Charm of Hugo
1 – 3 p.m.: Free Italian Ice, Face Painting and Balloon Animals
2 – 4 p.m.: Free American Flags from Uncle Sam
3 – 5 p.m.: Free Fudge Samples at Scheels All Sports
3 – 5 p.m. Live Music – Moose Knuckle
4 – 6 p.m.: Free Juggling Performances
6 – 8 p.m.: Summer Concert Series – Blueberry Love Machine
Star Spangled Sparks information: (775) 353-2291 or sparksrec.com.
Sparks Marina information:
300 Howard Drive, Sparks
(775) 358-1976
Virginia City
An old west holiday awaits up in Virginia City, just a short drive from Reno. A traditional parade begins at noon. The wooden sidewalks play host to face painters, historical figures, clowns and free stuff for the kids. Free live music is also part of the day. Fireworks at dusk cap off the day.
(775) 847-4386
(800)-718-7587
Carson City
Celebrate the 4th for the entire weekend at Mills Park. You can enjoy carnival rides and games; arts, crafts, and food and drink vendors, or bring your own picnic. The fireworks are free on the 4th, and they start at around 9:15 p.m. To find out more details call (775) 687-4680.
Sparks
Each year, the city of Sparks, located right next door to Reno, puts on one of the most impressive displays of pyrotechnics in the area. But long before the fireworks go off in Victorian Square, the fun begins at the Sparks Marina. Starting in the morning, the marina is full of activities, music and food for the whole family, including:
6 a.m.: Hot air balloon rides and pancake breakfast.
8 a.m.: Fun run/walk
9 a.m.: Milk carton boat regatta
10 a.m.: Opening ceremony
11 a.m.: Sparks' Got Talent competition
Spend the day soaking up the sun and playing in the water, but make sure you save some energy for the big show.Star Spangled Sparks Fourth of July activities start about 4 p.m. in Victorian Square, downtown Sparks. The event includes lots of free kids' events, vendors selling food and drinks and live entertainment, all topped off by a 20-minute fireworks display at dark, around 9:30 p.m.
The Legends at Sparks Marina will celebrate the Fourth of July this year during the 10th annual Star Spangled Sparks event. The area’s newest attraction has partnered with the Sparks Chamber of Commerce, Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows and John Ascuaga’s Nugget to coordinate the day’s events and provide shuttle service between The Legends, Sparks Marina and Victorian Square. July Fourth activities begin at 6 a.m. at Sparks Marina with shuttle service beginning at 8 a.m. and continuing until midnight. A full slate of free activities and entertainment also takes place throughout The Legends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. including the following:
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Uncle Sam Stilt Walker and Free Balloon Animals and Lemonade Stand
12 – 2 p.m.: Live Music – James Cavanaugh and the Charm of Hugo
1 – 3 p.m.: Free Italian Ice, Face Painting and Balloon Animals
2 – 4 p.m.: Free American Flags from Uncle Sam
3 – 5 p.m.: Free Fudge Samples at Scheels All Sports
3 – 5 p.m. Live Music – Moose Knuckle
4 – 6 p.m.: Free Juggling Performances
6 – 8 p.m.: Summer Concert Series – Blueberry Love Machine
Star Spangled Sparks information: (775) 353-2291 or sparksrec.com.
Sparks Marina information:
300 Howard Drive, Sparks
(775) 358-1976
Virginia City
An old west holiday awaits up in Virginia City, just a short drive from Reno. A traditional parade begins at noon. The wooden sidewalks play host to face painters, historical figures, clowns and free stuff for the kids. Free live music is also part of the day. Fireworks at dusk cap off the day.
(775) 847-4386
(800)-718-7587
Carson City
Celebrate the 4th for the entire weekend at Mills Park. You can enjoy carnival rides and games; arts, crafts, and food and drink vendors, or bring your own picnic. The fireworks are free on the 4th, and they start at around 9:15 p.m. To find out more details call (775) 687-4680.
Lake Tahoe
With 72 miles of shoreline, Lake Tahoe plays host to a number of fireworks displays on the Fourth of July. Check with individual areas to see exactly what they are hosting for each year.Tahoe City
Commons Beach in downtown Tahoe City is the place for fireworks on the west shore. Get a spot early, as it fills up quickly.
Donner Lake/Truckee
Donner Lake offers a beautiful venue for fireworks, but parking can be scarce, so get there early.
South Shore
South Lake claims it puts on the largest synchronized fireworks display west of the Mississippi River. Whether you watch from a hotel, the beach or on the water, this is one show not to be missed. Be ready for lots of company.
2009 Reno event cancelled
Due to budget restrictions, the City of Reno has canceled its fireworks for this year. The Reno Aces will have Fourth of July fireworks after its 7 p.m. game at the downtown baseball stadium.
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