Monday, January 27, 2025

A Beginner's Guide to Your First Classic Cross Country Ski Adventure

Guest Post by Leah: Co-owner of Gear Hut, Reno's One-and-Only Outdoor Gear & Apparel Consignment Shop

Gear Hut
318 Broadway Blvd, Reno, NV 89502
*Instagram
*Website

Directions to Nevada Nordic:
Mt. Rose Highway, New Washoe City, NV 89704
*Grooming Update

About 40 mins. from Reno, 5 mins. from Mt. Rose Ski

Source

Heyo Reno, it’s Leah here from Gear Hut (owner of your local used gear shop… where you can find all things climbing, hiking, paddling, camping, skiing… depending on the season)! We are SO lucky to live in Reno, NV, where cross-country skiing is one of the best ways to enjoy our beautiful mountain scenery—and I love introducing people to the sport. I always recommend heading to Tahoe Meadows. It’s got free groomed trails courtesy of Nevada Nordic, and it’s perfect for newbies. Aside from being free (they’re donation based grooming - so I always scan their QR codes and drop $5), it’s not too far from the road, so if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re never really far from bailing or taking a break.

One of the first things I always tell folks is: it’s okay to be a beginner! Enjoy the experience without feeling like you need to be perfect; it’s kind of fun to laugh at yourself as you learn. We’ve all had that wobbly first moment, and if you can just embrace the learning process, it makes the whole thing way more enjoyable. After all, xc-skiing is about getting out there, having fun, moving your body, soaking in some fresh air and nature… and giving yourself grace.

The First Time on Classic XC Skis: What to Expect

If you’ve been on regular, resort skis before, a lot of the basic movements will come pretty naturally, especially when it comes to stopping (we’ll get to that in a sec). But if you’re new to cross-country skiing, it can feel a little weird at first. You’re on these skinny skis, connected just by your toe, the ski dangles when you lift your leg, the ski is also significantly longer, AND your balance is totally different from downhill skiing. In the beginning, you might feel a little wobbly, but that’s okay! If you've ever tried rollerblading or ice skating, think of XC skiing as similar. You’ve got to find your balance, but it’s not as intimidating as it seems (and easier when in groomed classic tracks).

The key to moving forward on classic cross country skis: Think of “moonwalking” when you're gliding forward.

It’s about shifting your weight above the scales on one foot and pushing the other ski forward. Then transition your weight above the other scales. Rinse and repeat til you find your moonwalk flow. If you're moving too much at once, you’ll end up falling on your face or butt (no judgment; it happens to the best of us). But if you take it slow and focus on gliding with “mini steps” instead of charging forward with large lunges, you’ll find your rhythm.


PRO TIP: Those railroad looking grooves are for classic XC skiing! Hop into them to help with balance and keep your moonwalk flow! (If you’re out hiking around, make sure you are walking to the sides of the groomed trails, not ruining the classic tracks or punching holes in the skate skiing area).

Stopping: The Challenge

Stopping is probably the trickiest thing for beginners (and surprisingly scary for how slow you’re going… my heart rate ALWAYS spikes!). If you’ve been on downhill skis before, you’re used to carving and controlling your speed with turns, but with cross-country skiing, it's a little different. I always tell first-timers to be aware of the snowplow technique—basically pushing your ski tips together while keeping your heels apart. It sounds easy, but there’s a fine line between slowing down and launching yourself into an ungraceful fall, or crossing your skis (which are longer than your typical resort ski). Don’t worry, though—you’ll figure it out, and in the meantime, laughter is key!

PRO TIP: As you’re getting started… don’t be in the tracks for the downhills! Use that full groomed area for your snowplow!

Gear Basics: The Matching Game

If you’re going to invest in gear for XC skiing (which, by the way, you don’t have to buy new stuff—you can always check out Gear Hut for some great used options!), make sure you get the right setup for your needs. One of the biggest mistakes new skiers make is not checking that their boots, bindings, and skis are compatible. There are multiple types of bindings out there, and not all boots will fit every type, so you need to make sure everything lines up properly. It can be a bit tricky, but I’m always happy to help with the gear side of things—whether you're stopping by Gear Hut or reaching out with questions.

Note: Classic skis will have scales on the bottom! Skate skis will be smooth with a groove in the bottom.

PRO TIP: Don’t buy SNS gear unless you found BOTH skis w/bindings AND boots in one purchase. (SNS is an obsolete binding system that is no longer manufactured, so you’re keeping your fingers crossed that you’ll find a complete set up that works for you).

The Best Part: Wildlife and all the Benefits of Getting Outdoors

And let’s not forget my FAVORITE part of skiing at Tahoe Meadows: the chickadees! They’ll come right up to you and, with a little patience (and maybe some bird seed), you can even feed them by hand. It’s such a peaceful way to connect with nature while you’re learning a new skill.

Plus, spending time in the outdoors is incredibly good for your mental and physical well-being. There’s something about being in nature—whether you’re slippy, sliding through the trees, with the sounds muted by the snow, or pausing to take in the snow-covered peaks—that helps to clear your mind. The fresh air, the quiet, the simple act of being in the moment, away from screens, wifi and the busy world—it’s all so grounding. Studies show that getting outside and moving in nature can reduce stress, boost your mood, and even improve focus. XC skiing is a great way to get some exercise, but it’s also a wonderful opportunity to reset and recharge. I don’t think I’ve ever regretted a xc-ski adventure.

As my biggest reminder and takeaway- Remember that it’s okay to be brand new at something! Be inspired by the kids in your life (or the neighborhood punks). Every day, they’re trying new things in the world! So embrace the “baby deer” wobbles, laugh at the falls, and enjoy the process. Before you know it, you’ll be gliding along the trails, stopping to take in the fresh mountain air, and maybe even feeling a little proud of how far you've come.

And if you need advice, gear, or just someone to share a laugh with, I’ll be here (or at the shop at least!). Follow along on Gear Hut’s instagram for local adventure inspiration (and some sweet deals).

Happy skiing,
Leah Wz.

Leah is the co-owner of Gear Hut. She moved to Reno in 2016, drawn to the area by the opportunities for outdoor recreation and the vibrant community vibes of the city. She identifies as a “pretty average”, mediocre adventurer… with a vast knowledge base in a lot of activities, but not quite excelling at any of them. She loves cruisy blues on skis and bikes, finding flow while hiking, soaking in hot springs and napping on summits.

Categorized Under "Local Expertise"

Photography
© Katherine Fung,
All rights reserved.

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Friday, January 17, 2025

Reno Winter Events 2025 (continued): Valentine's Day, Lunar New Year, St. Patrick's Day & More.

I have such fond memories of Valentine’s Day growing up.

In elementary school, exchanging Valentine’s cards with friends and classmates was the highlight of every February. Cards often featured Care Bears, Disney characters, Looney Tunes, or even Michael Jordan, and they almost always came with a sweet treat or those heart-shaped candies stamped with love notes. 

In high school, Valentine’s Day brought a new kind of excitement with “crush grams.” These were notes or small tokens you could send to friends - or maybe to that one special person you hadn’t yet worked up the courage to talk to. I’m not going to lie, those were the days - filled with equal parts fun and butterflies.

Valentine’s Day may look different for me now, but its charm hasn’t faded. It’s still a time to celebrate love in all its forms, whether through cherished traditions or creating new ones. From romantic date nights to family road trips, indulging in foodie adventures, or unwinding with spa days, there are endless ways to make the day/month special and meaningful.

While February often highlights and celebrates couples, let’s not forget that love is for everyone, no matter your relationship status. These days, we’re constantly bombarded with an “ideal” version of love: happy couples, picture-perfect lives, and fairytale romances, all curated and filtered on social media. But life isn’t always like that. For many, this time of year can stir up feelings of sadness, especially if they’ve experienced heartache, lost a loved one, or feel left out of all the "love" festivities.

That’s why I believe Valentine’s Day should be about celebrating love in all its beautiful forms. Whether you’re single, taken, or somewhere in between, take this time to honor the love you share with yourself, your friends, your family - even the kindness you extend to strangers. Love is universal, love is powerful, and most of all, love is what keeps this world spinning.

Whether you stopped by to find Valentine’s Day events or fun ways to wrap up winter in style, you’ve come to the right place. I can’t get enough of Reno and this amazing life we’re all lucky to live. If sleep weren’t a necessity, I’d probably skip it just to soak up every bit of what life has to offer. Life is beautiful, full of discoveries waiting to be made, and here in Reno, life is truly something special.

Peace, LOVE, and kindness,
-Kat

P.S.  I’ll be back to fine-tune and update this guide with anything I missed or that pops up later. Businesses, friends, and future friends - please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s something you’d like me to add.

Follow me on Instagram for more gems, local businesses, and more.

*The first part of my winter guide may still be of interest to those looking for local local shops & winter activities.

Special Deals

EVENTS
-January 16 (9-11pm):  Dolly Dapper Duo @ The Lodge Bar & Patio
-January 17-19:  Mochinut Grand Opening
-January 18 (9am):  National Forest Foundation, TMPF, and Coffee Bar Guided Snowshoe Hike @ Chickadee Ridge
-January 18 (All Day):  Reno Public Market Two-year Anniversary Party
-January 19 (1pm-2:30pm):  Heretics Workshop Writing Goals/Novel Planning @ The Radical Cat
-January 20 (9am-12pm): MLK Day of Service Bioblitz Day @ Rosewood Nature Study Area
-January 25 (11am-3pm):  National Automobile Museum Members go Bowling @ National Bowling Stadium
-January 25 (7pm):  Laughs for Los Angeles @ Reno Public Market
-January 25 (7pm):  Haunted Cinema - Practical Magic @ Underworld Distillery
-January 26 (11am-2pm):  Sunday Drag Dim Sim Brunch @ Rice Noodle Box Kitchen
-January 26, February 22, March 16:  FREE Tubing Day for Special Needs Families @ Tube Tahoe 
-January 29 (9pm):  Luna New Year Party @ The Lodge Bar & Patio
-January 31 (6pm):  A Lunar New Year Celebration Concert @ Trinity Episcopal Cathedral
-January 31 (8-11pm):  Brew HaHa - Sierra Arts Foundation 28th Annual Fundraiser @ The Nugget Casino Grand Ballroom
-January 31 & February 22:  Loteria Social @ Tacos Tijuana Cantina 
-January 31 (9pm):  Soul Night 1 Year Anniversary Party @ Lo Bar Social
-February 1 (8:30am-4:30pm):  Lunar New Year Community Celebration @ Nevada State Museum, Carson City
-February 1 (10am-12pm):  Oreo's Lunar New Year of the Snake @ Rosewood Nature Study Center
-February 1, March 8, April 4:  Michael Tegio & Something Else Shows @ The Holland Project, Shim's Tavern, Dubs
-February 3 (6-8pm):  Arts & Drafts Crafting at Craft Wine & Beer
-February 5, 6, & 14:  Valentine's Day Themed Crafts w/ Heart & Soul Sparks @ Various Locations around town.
-February 7 (9pm):  Comedy in the Cellar (9pm) @ Alturas Bar
-February 7 & 8 (10am-6pm):  2025 Valentine's Day Craft Fair @ Reno-Sparks Indian Colony Facility Building
-February 8 (10am-10pm):  Cupid's Grove Sweetheart Market @ Futsol
-February 8 (10am-6pm):  Hands On!  Second Saturday - Color Me In Love @ Nevada Museum of Art
-February 8:  Carson City Short's Love Notes Short Film Competition Screening & Awards @ Brewery Arts Center, Carson City
-February 9 (4-8pm):  Doodle Night @ Black Rabbit Mead Company
-February 11 (7-11pm):  Off the App & Into the Tap Singles Night @ Schussboom Brewing Co.
-February 12 (12pm-5pm):  3Racha Anniversary Cupsleeve Event @ Num Num Boba, Northwest Location
-February 12 (6-8pm):  Batch Cupcakery's Valentine's Day Cake Decorating Class @ Batch Cupcakery, South Location
-February 13 (5pm-9pm):  Lover's Market & Feral Affection @ The Generator
-February 13 (6-8pm): Galentine's Astrology Workshop & Sauna @ Best Bet Motor Lodge
-February 13 (5-7pm):  Valentine's Day Pizza Workshop with Fun with Food @ Brick & Pine Studio, Carson City
-February 14 (6:30pm):  Valentine's Day Comedy Show @ Midnight Coffee Roasting, Sparks
-February 14 (8pm):  Cupid's Ball @ Alibi Ale Works, Truckee
-February 14 (6-10:30pm):  Holland is your Valentine @ Reno Public House
-February 14 (3:30-6pm):  Alpinistas Valentine's Day Sunset Snowshoe Tour @ Chickadee Ridge, Meeting Place - The Lodge Bar & Patio
-February 14 (3-6pm):  Valentine's Pop-Up  @ Bad Apple Vintage
-February 14 (7-10pm):  The Great Comstock Valentine's Dance @ The Historic Forth Ward School Museum
-February 15 (10am-1pm): Super Hero Day @ The National Automobile Museum
-February 15 (9pm):  Mr. Johnson's Round-Up Show @ Midnight Coffee Roasting (Midtown)
-February 15 (2:30 or 4:30pm, Duration: 60 mins.):  Valentine's Murder
-February 15 (8pm-1am):  Boot Scootin Bachata @ Tacos Tijuana Cantina
-February 15 (3-5pm):  Valentine's Day Pool Party @ Northwest Pool
-February 15 & 16 (5pm):  Lake Tahoe Winter Reggae Festival @ Tahoe Blue Events Center, South Lake Tahoe
-February 16 (11:30am):  Drag Brunch with the Twampsons - Valentine's Edition @ Silver Peak Grill & Taproom on the River, 18+
-February 22 (11am-1pm):  Kid-Preneurs Pop-Up Shop @ Learning Express Toys
-February 22 (7-10pm): Social Science:  Spells & Incantations @ The Discovery
-February 22:  Punk Rock Prom @ The Alpine
-February 22 (8pm):  Shrektacular:  A Night of Shrek Themed Drag @ Coffee N' Comics, Sparks Location
-February 23 (12-4pm):  Wild Western Wordsmiths Workshop for Emerging Writers @ The Holland Project
-March 8 (10am-2pm):  Arts For All Nevada Youth Art Month Festival @ Lake Mansion
-March 15 (8pm-2am):  Reno Leprechaun Crawl.  Start:  Rum Buillions, Circus Circus
-March 16 (8:30am):  5K Leprechaun Race @ The Discovery

Instagram

Valentine's Day Ideas
*Take a cooking Class - Nothing to It, Reno - Kids/adults | Sierra Chef in Genoa, NV - Kids/adults.
Nothing to It Calendar, Reno.
*Couple Massage
*Movie Marathon:
If you haven't watched these romance movies yet, they're absolute HITS!
The Notebook
Titianic
Pride & Prejudice
*Valentines Flower Arrangements & Bouquets - Great Basin Co-0p, Sierra Water Gardens, The Garden
*Wine Tasting - The Lodge has a wide selection, including imported wines from Europe- Location of Lodge in beautiful Galena Forest | Engine 8 Brewery offers flights, shareable platters, & live music.| Riverwalk District Wine Walk (3rd Th of every month)
*Laser Tag - Coconut Bowl has a fun 2-level course
*Hit the Slopes - Mt. Rose, Northstar, Diamond Peak, Palisades, Boreal
*Shooting Gallery - Scheels, Virginia City Sawdust Trails, Cabela's
*Indoor Ferris Wheel - Scheels
*Movie Theaters: Galaxy at Legends
Starting February 1, 2025
*Paint N Sip Class - Crafted Palette has ongoing classes year-round AND they have bomb food too! Score!
*Coffee Shop (list immediately below) & Hike or Stroll
*Roller Skate - Roller Kingdom
*Bowling - Coconut Bowl, GSR, Bowl Incline
*Escape Room - Deadline, Keystone, Breakthrough GSR 
*Axe Throwing
*Pottery Studio - The Hot Spot @ Legends, Sparks
*Scenic Overlooks - I have yet to add Emerald Bay &  Sand Harbor to my list - both MUST-SEE spots.
*Biking - Tahoe Bike Company - open year-round
*Run For Love Race - 4 mile run, downtown Reno
*Sledding - Mt. Rose Meadows - free.  Just past Mt. Rose Summit, you'll find a flat area with a bunch of cars parked on each side. You can't miss it.
*Indoor Go Carts - Need to Speed
*Karaoke Bar - Reno Public Market.  West 2nd St. Bar. 
*Hot Springs - Carson City Hot Springs (family-friendly), Steamboat Hot Springs (smaller and more private)
*Boba - Num Num Boba (Local), Oddcha (Local), Rare Tea, Teaspoon, Jelly Donut (local, 24 hrs.)
*Board Games - Play them for free at Coffee N' Comics, along with Super Nintendo
*Dinner Cruise - MS Dixie II, South Lake Tahoe
*Go Carts - Need 2 Speed, Coconut Bowl
*Stargazing - Jack C. Davis Observatory, 2269 Vanpatten Ave, Carson City, NV 89703.  Every 3rd Saturday of the month. 30mins., FREE

RAD Local Coffee Shops to Fuel your Everyday Life

We’re so lucky to have so many amazing and unique local coffee shops that add so much character to our city. These places are run by passionate people who genuinely love what they do and aim to brighten your day. With all the different styles and flavors to choose from, I can’t help but feel spoiled. 


EVENTS

-January 16 | 9pm-11pm
Dolly Dapper Duo
*Location:
Pignic Pub & Patio
235 Flint St, 
Reno, NV 89501
*Instagram
*Website
*Menu
*Drinks

"New event!! Happening Thursday, January 16th 9-11p. 🎻 Dolly Dapper is a new original folk/Americana duo presenting soulful lyrics and melodies from Jenna Talbott and Chandler Seipert, who have recently relocated to the Reno area. With an emphasis on harmonies and traditional country/blues guitar, the project encompasses original tunes and rootsy covers with dynamic spins." 

-Description from Instagram



-January 17 - 19 
Mochinut GRAND OPENING (Northwest Reno)

5150 Mae Anne Ave, Ste.213, 

Reno, Nevada 89523

*Instagram



-January 18 | 9am
National Forest Foundation & Truckee Meadows Park Foundation
Guided Snowshoe Hike - Chickadee Ridge
*Instagram
*RSVP

"🌲❄️ Join Our Partners at National Forest Foundation for a Guided Snowshoe Adventure! 🥾✨

This Saturday, January 18th, at 9:00 AM, we’re exploring Chickadee Ridge with a 2.3-mile out-and-back snowshoe hike.

🌟 Details:

Enjoy a guided hike through the beautiful snowy trails.
Free Trailhead Medium Roast coffee (thanks to @Coffeebar) served 15 minutes before we begin!
👟 Need Snowshoes?
There is a limited supply available, or you can bring your own.

📅 RSVP Required: Secure your spot today via the link in bio!

Don’t miss this chance to connect with nature and enjoy the winter wonderland."

-Description from Instagram



*January 18 
Two-Year Anniversary Party! | All Day
*Location:
Reno Public Market
299 E Plumb Ln, 
Reno, NV 89502
*Instagram
*Website

"Reno Public Market is turning TWO! 🎉 🎂 Join us for a free and family-friendly event celebrating two amazing years on January 18th. From live music featuring the high-energy sounds of New Wave Crave and other talented performers (announcing soon!) to a bounce house, face painting, and morning SWËT fitness class, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And that’s just the beginning—so much more awaits!

This event is not only a celebration but also a heartfelt thank you to the incredible Reno community. To all who visit the market, the dedicated vendors and merchants, and every individual who contributes to its success daily: we couldn’t have done it without you.

Stay tuned for more exciting details, and don’t miss this unforgettable celebration. Mark your calendars now—we can’t wait to celebrate with you! 🥳"

-Description from Instagram



-January 19 | 1pm-2:30pm
Novel Planning
All ages & all experience levels are welcome.
*Instagram | The Radical Cat | Heretics Workshop

"It's time to ring in the new year with new writing goals! But this year, the Heretics are going to do something different—by focusing on prewriting materials. Join us during our Grand Reopen weekend on Sunday, January 19, from 1-2:30, to learn how to plan your next long writing project—and how to make those plans a reality. Bring the project you want to focus on in 2025 so we can discuss brainstorming, character motivations, big plot points, and more, and how to use those tools to actually work on your project. Pantsers and planners alike are not going to want to miss this! Free and open to the public to writers of all ages and experience levels."




-January 20 | 9am-12pm
MLK Day of Service BioBlitz Day (FREE)
*Location:
Rosewood Nature Study Area
6800 Pembroke Dr, 
Reno, NV 89502
*Registration (19 spots left)
*My REEL of BioBlitz 2024

"MLK Day is more than a holiday—it’s a National Day of Service, a call to action for all Americans to make a difference in their communities. 💚

This year, be part of our BioBlitz:
🌿 Clean up the habitat.
🦋 Identify flora and fauna—no expertise needed!

A BioBlitz helps us document species and understand the ecological health of the area. Every observation makes a difference!

Register now through the link in our bio and join us for a meaningful day of service in honor of Dr. King’s legacy." -Description from Instagram

Truckee Meadows is doing such amazing work in the community - they are the driving force behind the functionality of our parks and trails. 

Every year, they host a variety of fun and meaningful events that highlight the beauty of our incredible outdoor spaces. From nature walks and restorative planting in the spring and fall to "Carpe Diem" events where participants help control invasive carp populations in the wetlands, there's always something engaging happening. They also offer free science talks at the Rosewood Visitors Center, children's camps, and so much more. I’m incredibly grateful for this organization and thrilled to help spread the word about the amazing work they do in the community. It’s such a wonderful group to be a part of! I hope you get a chance to check out one of their events soon.  



-January 21 | 6pm-8pm
Arts & Drafts Community Events
A Roving Micro-Market & Craft Night
*Location:
Pignic Pub & Patio
235 Flint St, 
Reno, NV 89501
*Pay what you can, with a capped contribution of $5



-January 25 | 7pm
Laughs for Los Angeles Fundraiser
*Location:
Reno Public Market
299 E Plumb Ln, 
Reno, NV 89502

"In the Reno/Tahoe area, we know firsthand the devastation wildfires can bring to our communities. That’s why we’re coming together to support those affected by the recent Los Angeles fires with an evening of laughter and hope. Join us this Saturday, January 25th at 7PM for "Laughs For Los Angeles", a special comedy fundraiser featuring an incredible lineup of stand-up comedians: Sarah Rooker, Austin Baga, Steven Dente, Andrea B., Shannon Murphy, Matt Wiegand, and David Gamble Jr.

Tickets are just $10, and 100% of the proceeds will go toward California fire relief efforts. Let’s come together for a night of laughs and make a difference! Ticket link in bio. 🔗 See you there ❤️"

-Description from Instagram



-January 25 | 11am-3pm
National Automobile Members go Bowling 
(FREE for members)
*Location: 
National Bowling Stadium
300 University Way
Reno Nevada 89501
*Instagram
*RSVP
*Website

"Plus, to celebrate our 35th Anniversary, we’re offering some incredible membership deals (for a limited time):
• Individual Membership – Only $35 to celebrate our 35 years!
• Family Membership – $35 OFF a Family Membership, so your family of five can enjoy a full year of Museum adventures for just $64!
• Companion Membership – Buy One, Get One Half-Off! Share the fun with friends or family." 

- Description from website (as of 1/16/2025)



-January 25 | 7pm
Haunted Cinema - Practical Magic (FREE, 21+)
*Location:
Underworld Distillery
5301 Longley Ln bldg f ste 203, 
Reno, NV 89511
*Instagram
*Website

"Join us for a cozy night at Underworld Distillery! Haunted Cinema returns as we screen the enchanting classic Practical Magic! Grab your seat on January 25th; the movie starts at 7 PM. Best of all, this event is free! Come enjoy the magic with us. 21+ ONLY."

-Description from Instagram



-January 26 | 11am-2pm  
Sunday Drag Dim Sim Brunch 
*Location:
Rice Noodle Box Kitchen
490 S Center St, 
Reno, NV 89501
*Instagram | Rice Noddle Box Kitchen | Adonnaslay 
*Tickets ($55/person)




-January 26, February 22, March 16  
FREE Tubing Day for Special Needs Families 
*Location:
Tube Tahoe 
3021 US-50, 
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
*Instagram
*Liability Waiver




*January 29 | 9pm
Lunar New Year Party
*Location:
The Lodge Bar & Patio
17025 NV-431, Reno, NV 89511
*Instagram
*Website
*Tickets

TAPAS-MUSIC-COMEDY!

Menu: Tapas Style

  1. Cucumber Roll with Ginger Peanut dipping Sauce
  2. Spicy Chilled Noodle Salad
  3. Red Curry Chicken Soup with Turmeric Sticky Rice
  4. Chinese 5-Spice Poached Pear Parfait with Ice Cream and Candied Walnuts

Chef Kasia Levine: Kasia was born and trained in culinary school in Poland where she developed a profound appreciation for fresh, seasonal and organic ingredients. She has lived in various regions - Italy, Austria, Slovenia, Costa Rica and Mexico - all shaping her cooking style, fostering a passion for bold flavors, vibrant produce and creative use of seasonal ingredients.


Musician Brad Jones: Brad is a modern, fingerstyle instrumental guitarist. He performs his own melodic originals and classic covers!


Comedy hosted by David Gamble, a west-coast based standup comedian and writer. His irreverent humor touches on marriage, family life, the absurdity of American life, and anything else that comes to mind. In addition to performing, David is an award-winning actor and model.




-January 31 | 6pm
Trinity Episcopal Cathedral 
A Lunar New Year Celebration Concert
*Organized by:
Katherine Parker - head voice at UNR School of Music  
Bryan Chuan - Music Director & Organist at Trinity

***Recurring Program
1–2 Fridays per month, typically starting at noon

Upcoming Shows:
Friday, February 21, 12 pm: UNR Keyboard Studio Showcase
Friday, March 20, 12 pm: Dave Hatt (Bay Area)
Friday April 4, 12 pm: Jeffrey Cooper (Chico, CA)
Friday May 2, 6 pm: Pianist Mandy Gessler (Aspen, CO)
Friday May 16, 12 pm: Angela Kraft Cross (Bay Area)
Friday June 6, 12 pm: Michal Szostak (Poland)
Friday June 20, 12 pm: Chase Olson (Oberlin)



-January 31| 8pm - 11pm
Brew HaHa - Sierra Arts Foundation 28th Annual Fundraiser
*Location:
The Nugget Casino Grand Ballroom
1100 Nugget Ave, Sparks, NV 89431
*Tickets  ($65 GA, $ 85 VIP)



-January 31 & February 22
Loteria Social (FREE)
*Location:
Tacos Tijuana Cantina 
7499 Longley Lane 
Reno NV 89511
*Instagram | Tacos Tijuana | R Boogie





-January 31 | 9pm - Late
Soul Night 1 Year Anniversary Party
*Location:
Lo Bar Social
445 California Ave, 
Reno, NV 89509

***Recurring event, every Friday at 9pm.***

"*SOUL NIGHT ANNIVERSARY PARTY*

Come join residents DJ Andrew and DJ Sax One, along with special guest DJs Mark Sexton and Ivan The Terrible to celebrate Reno's longest running dance party!

Celebrate the 1 year anniversary at Lo-Bar, originally established in 2008 - Hard guess.

FREE SHIRT GIVEAWAY! Supplies are limited. Be there when the first needle drops to secure yours!

Soul, Funk, RnB, Latin and 60’s

All Vinyl 45s All Night Long"

-Description from Instagram




-February 1 | 9:30am-11am
Lunar New Year Community Celebration 
*Location:
Nevada State Museum
600 N Carson St, 
Carson City, NV 89701
*$10/adult, 17 and under FREE

"Join us for an exciting day of culture, creativity, and celebration as we welcome the Year of the Snake with performances, crafts, and festive activities for the whole family. Hosted in partnership with the Reno Chinese Dance Club, Carson Valley Chinese Cultural Group, and Reno Chinese Cultural Group, this event promises a vibrant blend of tradition and community.

Event Highlights
📅 Date: February 1, 2025
📍 Location: Nevada State Museum & Children’s Museum of Northern Nevada
🎟️ Admission: Activities in the Dema Guinn Concourse are free. Admission to the Museum galleries is $10 for adults and free for members and children 17 and younger.

Schedule of Events

  • 9:30 AM: Family Crafts in the Museum Auditorium
  • 10:00 AM: Carson Valley Chinese Cultural Group Performance in the NSM Dema Guinn Concourse
  • 11:00 AM: Lion Dance Procession from NSM to CMNN 
  • 11:30 AM: Reno Chinese Cultural Group Performance on the stage at CMNN
  • 12:30 PM: Carson Valley Chinese Cultural Group Performance on the stage at CMNN

Enjoy four captivating performances by the Reno Chinese Dance Club, showcasing the grace and vibrancy of Chinese dance. Additional performers may be announced soon.

Light refreshments will be served.

Come celebrate this rich cultural tradition with us! Together, let’s honor the Year of the Snake in a way that brings the community together with joy and shared experiences.

Interested in sponsoring the event or supporting performer honoraria? Reach out to us for more details."

-Description from website



-February 1 | 10am-12pm  
*Location:
Rosewood Nature Study Center
6800 Pembroke Dr, 
Reno, NV 89502

"Please bring the family and join us for Oreo’s Lunar New Year of the Snake 🎉event at the Rosewood Nature Study Area, February 1, 2025 between 10 am and 12 pm. Get a chance to meet one of our animal ambassadors Oreo the snake and some of his other snake friends 🐍! We will also have Asian crafts, special guest Shuyi Huang from the Asian Community Development Council, and a self guided nature walk featuring snake facts. Slither on by and wish Oreo a happy new year!"
-Description from Instagram

Rosewood Nature Study Center is a great indoor spot for the whole family, offering a variety of fun community events, camps, Science Talk Wednesdays, and serving as the headquarters for the Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation. 

The center features taxidermy displays, a craft station, a cozy lounge area, a collection of children's books, and animal ambassadors, including a desert tortoise, snake, forest frog, and much more. It's the perfect place for learning and family fun.

Outside the center, you'll find beautifully preserved and restored wetlands thriving with wildlife and a scenic dirt trail complete with fun bridges to cross. 

Be sure to watch for their annual event, "Carpe Diem," where the community is invited to help fish out invasive carp to keep their population in check. It's a unique way to support the ecosystem while having a great time.




-February 1, March 8, April 4
The Holland Project
140 Vesta St, Reno, NV 89502

Shim's Tavern 
125 W 3rd St, Reno, NV 89501

Dubs
95 N Sierra St, Reno, NV 89501




February 3 | 6-8pm
*Location:
22 Martin St, 
Reno, NV 89509



-February 5,6, & 14
Hosted by Heart & Soul Sparks
*Locations:
Beer NV, Final Draught, 10 Torr 

 


-February 7 | 9pm
*Location:
Alturas Bar
1044 East. 4th St.
Reno NV 89512



-February 7 & 8 | 10am-6pm
*Location: 
Reno-Sparks Indian Colony Facility Building
34 Reservation Rd.
Reno NV 89502




-February 8|10am-6pm
Hands ON! Second Saturday - Color me in Love
*Location:
Nevada Museum of Art
160 W Liberty St, Reno, NV 89501


-February 8:  
Carson City Shorts 
Love Notes Short Film Competition Screening & Awards 
*Location:
Brewery Arts Center, Carson City
449 W King St, 
Carson City, NV 89703



-February 8 | 10am-10pm
*Location:
Futsol
1580 Hymer Ave.
Sparks NV 89431



-February | 4-8pm  
Doodle Night 
*Location:
401 E 4th St, Reno, NV 89512



-February 11 | 7-11pm 
Off the App & Into the Tap Singles Night 
*Location:
Schussboom Brewing Co.
12245 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89511



-February 11 | 8pm
The Deadly Gallows Show 
40 Mile Saloon
1495 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89502
*My REEL of this band





-February 12 | 12pm-5pm  
*Location
Num Num Boba
6300 Mae Anne Ave suite 3, 
Reno, NV 89523



-February 12 | 6-8pm  
*Location:
Shim's Tavern
125 W 3rd St, Reno, NV 89501




-February 12 | 6-8pm
Valentine's Day Cake Decorating Class
Location:
Batch Cupcakery (South Location)
15 Foothill Rd, 
Reno, NV 89511
*13+, Duration: 2hrs.

"Date night, anyone? 😍 Join us for Batch Cupcakery's Valentine's Day Cake Decorating Class! On February 12th from 6-8pm, you'll learn how to create a vintage heart cake that your friends and partners are sure to fall in love with. Our experienced bakers will guide you through the process, teaching you tips and tricks along the way.

📍Classes will be held at our South Creek location, 15 Foothill Rd.

💃 Only 25 spots are available per class, so don't wait!"

-Description from Instagram



-February 13| 5pm-9pm
Lover's Market & Feral Affection (Grand Opening)
Location:
The Generator
2450 Oddie Blvd Suite 110, Sparks, NV 89431

The Generator is an expansive venue where artists come together to create, collaborate, and showcase their work. It also hosts some of the most exciting events in Reno. If you're familiar with the Third Thursday Markets at The Generator, it will now be held on a new date and time under a fresh name. This space is perfect for all ages, uniting the community around a shared love for art and entrepreneurship. At the market, you'll find a wide variety of unique items, from art and tote bags to crocheted stuffies, baked goods, clothing, and so much more - featuring 100% local talent.



-February 13 | 6-8pm
Galentine's Astrology Workshop & Sauna
*Location:
Best Bet Motorlodge
941 S Virginia St.
Reno, NV 89502



-February 13 (6-8pm):  
*Location:
Wyld Market Collective
1640 S Wells Ave, Reno, NV 89502
*RSVP (no admission, pay per activity)
⁠
✨ Oracle Card Readings from @thecosmicfinder⁠
✨ Permanent Jewelry by @mandalynnjewelrydesigns⁠
✨ DIY Chocolate Box with @tandemchocolates⁠
✨ DIY Bouquet Bar⁠ from @helianthusfloral⁠
✨ Card-Making Station compliments of Wyld Market⁠




-February 13 | 5-7pm 
Valentine's Day Pizza Workshop 
*Location:
Brick & Pine Studio
305 N Carson St #202, Carson City, NV 89701
*Tickets (Single - $60, Couple - $100)
*Instagram



-February 13 & 14 | 6:30pm
Dinner Tea Time - Valentine's Day Special 
*Location:
Bouchee Confections
940 W Moana Ln #102, 
Reno, NV 89509

MENU

Savories:

  • Brie, Apple, Roasted Walnuts, Jam, Microgreens
  • Puff Pastry Strip with Herbs de Provence Roasted Zucchini, Caramelized Onions, Crème Fraîche
  • Creamy Parmesan Polenta with Bell Pepper Sautéed Shrimp (warm)
  • Garlic Bread with Meatball and Marinara (warm)

Bread:  House-made Rosemary Focaccia served with Fresh Burrata, Artichoke Heart Bruschetta, and Eggplant Caponata

Desserts:

  • Dark Chocolate Mousse Cup
  • Strawberry Cheesecake Heart Shaped Bonbon
  • Vanilla Bean Macaron
  • Mini Raspberry Cream Puff

Beverages: 

  • Bottomless pot of Tea
  • Includes one glass from our selection of wine, sparkling wine, or cocktail/mocktail of the month

Price is inclusive of tax and gratuity.
Tickets are Non-Refundable.




-February 14| 6:30pm
Valentine's Day Comedy
*Location: 
Midnight Coffee Roasting
1401 S. Virginia St. 
Reno NV 89511
*Tickets ($10)

Duration: about 3 hrs.
Free Parking
18+

"Get ready to laugh your heart out at our Valentines Day Comedy event!

Join us at Midnight Coffee Roasting for a night filled with hilarious stand-up performances guaranteed to make your Valentine's Day unforgettable. Grab your sweetheart or round up your friends for a night of laughter and good vibes. Don't miss out on this special event - mark your calendars now!" 

-Description from Eventbrite




-February 14 | 6-10:30pm
*Location:
Reno Public House
33 St Lawrence Ave, 
Reno, NV 89501



-February 14 | 8pm - Late
Cupid's Ball (TRUCKEE)
Disco For Lovers
*Location:
Alibi Ale Works
10069 Bridge St, 
Truckee, CA 96161




-February 14 | 3:30-6pm  
*Location:
Meeting Place: 
The Lodge Bar & Patio
17025 NV-431, Reno, NV 89511
Hike:  Chickadee Ridge
*Registration - $30




-February 14 | 7-10pm
The Great Comstock Valentine's Dance 
*Location:
Forth Ward School Museum
537 S C St, Virginia City, NV 89440
*Tickets ($10 Members, $15 GA)



-February 15 | 3-5pm  
*Location:
Northwest Pool
2925 Apollo Way, Reno, NV 89503



-February 14 | 3-6pm  
*Location:
Bad Apple Vintage
1001 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89502




-February 15 | 10am-1pm
Super Hero Day 
*Location:
The National Automobile Museum
1 Museum Dr, Reno, NV 89501

"Get ready for an action-packed day at the National Automobile Museum!
Join us for Superhero Day on Saturday, February 15, 2025, starting at 10 AM!
Enjoy cosplay, face painting, arts & crafts, popcorn, cupcakes, and more! At 1 PM, we’ll be showing Disney’s The Incredibles in our private theatre – don’t miss it!
Costumes are encouraged (but no masks, please)!
Superhero Day is included with paid Museum admission or membership."
-Description from website


-February 15 | 2:30 or 4:30pm
*Location:
166 F St, 
Virginia City, NV 89440
*Tickets ($58)



-February 15 | 9pm
Mr. Johnson's Round-Up Show
*Location:
Midnight Coffee Roasters (Midtown Location)
1401 South Virginia St. STE 250
Reno NV 89502

"Well, here it is! I've been talking about it for a while now. This is the beginning of the return of my Round Ups! Cracking this at 9pm is going to be a solo performance of Captain Kitten, and then we will get it shaking and warmed up for @jade_brobro to blow the doors off the first Round Up of 2025! @midnightcoffeeroasting will be hosting this debacle of Honky Tonkin madness! Come have a coffee, a beer, a cocktail, or some tasty grub! A night of Country and Western for real!"

-Description from Instagram




-February 15 | 8pm-1am
*Location:
Tacos Tijuana Cantina
7499 Longley Ln, Reno, NV 89511




-February 15 & 16| 5pm
Lake Tahoe Winter Raggae Festival
*Location:
Tahoe Blue Event Center
75 Hwy 50, Stateline, NV 89449
*Tickets
*Instagram



-February 16 | 11:30am 
Drag Brunch with the Twampsons - Valentine's Edition 
*Location:
Silver Peak Grill & Taproom on the River
135 N Sierra St Suite E, 
Reno, NV 89501
*Instagram | Shania | Silver Peak
*Tickets ($20)
*18+




-February 22 
Kid-Preneurs Pop-Up Shop
*Location:
Learning Toys Express
South Towne Crossing, 197 Damonte Ranch Pkwy D
Reno, NV 89521
*Instagram




-February 22| 7pm-10pm
Social Science: Spells & Incantations
*Location: 
The Discovery
490 S Center St, Reno, NV 89501

Admission
*Ticket price includes two drinks & complimentary bites
Members: $20
Nonmembers: $25
At the Door: $30 (Tickets may sell out prior to event. Secure your tickets ahead of time.)




-February 22
Punk Rock Prom 2025
*Location:
The Alpine
324 E 4th St.
Reno NV 89512
*Instagram



-February 22 | 8pm
Shrektacular
A Night of Shrek Themed Drag
*Location:
Coffee N' Comics
1235 Baring Blvd. 
Sparks NV 89434



-February 23 | 12-4pm  
*Location:
The Holland Project
140 Vesta St, Reno, NV 89502



-March 8 | 10am-2pm 
*Location:
Lake Mansion 
250 Court St, 
Reno, NV 89501

"Join us at the Lake Mansion for a free community art festival hosted by Arts for All Nevada! From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, you and your family can attend for a fun-filled day of creativity! We will have a wide variety of exciting activities and organizations to make this a memorable event for all ages!

Event Highlights:

  • Explore the open doors of the Lake Mansion
  • Enjoy several art stations with hands-on crafts for all age groups
  • Free books for every child, courtesy of Spread the Word
  • Meet local historian and Lake Mansion expert – Patty Cafferata
  • Grab a bite from Zucker Donuts Food Truck
  • Sing along with Music Together: Biggest Little City
  • Paint a rock to leave in our community rock garden for Youth Art Month

No RSVP needed – just bring your friends and family, and we’ll see you there!"

-Description from website



-March 15 | 8pm-2am
*Start Location:
Rum Bullions (Circus Circus)
407 N Virginia St, 
Reno, NV 89501




Photo Source

-March 16 | 8:30am
5K Leprechaun Race
*Location:
The Discovery
490 S Center St, Reno, NV 89501
*Instagram | Reno Running Company | The Discovery
*Register
*My REEL of 2024 Leprechaun Race



ONGOING

Every Sunday, 9am-12pm @ Idlewild Park
Riverside Farmer's Market


Open-Mic Comedy Nights
Host & Organizer: Justin Sarus

Locations:
Polo Lounge
Pinion Bottle South
Midnight Coffee Roasting

Sign-up: 6:30pm
Start: 7pm


Ladies Night
A Bad Advice Comedy Show

Location: Underworld Distillery
5301 Longley Ln Bldg F Ste 203, 
Reno, NV 89511

*Instagram
*Website



Tahoe Sleigh Rides 
(through March)
Location: Sand Harbor parking lot, North Lake Tahoe | Reservations | Instagram
40 minute guided tour.  Buster was such a knowledgeable and down to earth guide.
Sand Harbor is the most popular beach in Lake Tahoe.
Delicious Hot Cocoa



The Lost World of Dragons
January 11th - April 27th
Wilbur D. May Museum
1595 N Sierra St, Reno, NV 89503

"An exhibit too big to miss! The Lost World of Dragons explores the histories of these legendary creatures and the cultures that celebrate them through large animatronic and interactive displays such as:

DRAGON RIDER VR EXPERIENCE
ALCHEMY LAB AND HATCHERY
SHADOW PUPPET THEATRE
DRAGON STOP MOTION STATION

This exhibit is perfect for field trips and will be running during open business hours!" 
-Description from Instagram

Prices:
Adults: $13
Kids and Seniors (62+): $11
Group Rate (15+ people): $7
Kids Under 3: FREE


ALL February 
Date Night in The Village

*Location:
Heavenly Village
1021 Heavenly Village Way
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Heavenly Village is the perfect spot to celebrate Valentine's Day, or really any day you want to make special. Life, atmosphere, views, and charm... the village is definitely one of my favorite places to hang, despite being located in a touristy area.  One big reason - the VIEWS & VIBES are unlike anything else.  

Some ideas for an ideal trip:  a scenic gondola ride (with or without skis and snowboards, $$$), a delicious dinner and magic show at The Loft, ice skating, Heavenly Village Cinema, and live entertainment (Base Camp Pizza has daily performances). And of course, you'll want to enjoy some amazing food, drinks, and dessert, and peruse one of the many cool shops in the village along the way.

If you're looking to go all out, staying at the village is an amazing experience. I’ve stayed at Grand Residence Club in the past, and it was unreal. Walking around the village with no time limit made me feel like I was truly on vacation - I even stayed up all night to soak up the magic, LOL. Another time, my brother stayed at Marriott’s Timberlodge, and it was just as incredible. Their outdoor pool is huge and awesome, plus they’re connected to Fire & Ice Grill, a fun hibachi buffet-style restaurant. If you want to be right in the heart of all the action, this is the spot for you, with the back entrance leading straight into the village.

Dessert options:





Wednesday Science Series Talks
(FREE)

Location:
Rosewood Nature Study Area
6800 Pembroke Dr, Reno, NV 89502 
6-7pm

*Instagram





Turned up Tuesdays Karaoke Night
at Reno Public Market
Website
Instagram

Parking 
Food & Drink Options
Community
Shopping 
check, check, check, check!



Regular Events at Coffee N' Comics 

940 W Moana Ln, 
Reno, NV 89509

Tuesday Comedy Night | 6:30-8pm
Friday Night Magic | 5:30-8:30pm
Saturday Night Cosplay Karaoke | 5-9pm  | 1235 Baring Blvd, Sparks, NV 89434
Quarterly Comedy Showcase | 5:30-8:30pm | Quarterly

Instagram
Website




Bruka Theater
99 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89501
*Instagram



Reno Little Theater
147 E Pueblo St, Reno, NV 89502

January 17 - February 9

Dial M for Murder
TICKETS
"A new version of the celebrated murder mystery that inspired Hitchcock’s masterpiece! Tony is convinced that his wife Margot has been cheating on him. Now it seems that the affair is over, but in his jealousy, Tony spins a web of suspicion and deception that will tighten around them and ensnare them both in danger, recrimination, and murder."
-Description from website

Also at Reno Little Theater
1 Sunday of each month: Sunday Jazz
Start: 7pm, Duration: 2 hrs
Pay What You Can
Upcoming Jazz Show:
January 26th - The Jordan Taylor Group
February 16th - Cece Gable
TICKETS
$10 General Admission
Libby Bakke
Bryce Keil
Ian Sorensen
Kevin McCray
Ryan Costello
Special Guests



Jazz & Soul Nights at Lo Bar Social
445 California Ave, Reno, NV 89509

Instagram
Website



Clubbing @ El Jefe's Cantina, Circus Circus
500 N Sierra St, Reno, NV 89503
Fridays & Saturdays
8:30pm-3am

No Cover
(Most Weekends)


Heather's Hoedown
Country Line Dancing
*Instagram
*Website

*Location: 10 Torr
490 Mill St, Reno, NV 89502


Drag Bingo
*Location:  The Emerson
955 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89509
*Instagram



Valentine's Day Menus
Great Full Gardens

Instagram


Gifts + Shopping
Nevada Museum of Art
Junkee @ The Basement 
Bukit - Bukit is like a local Amazon.  Local Merchants. Same-Day Delivery.
The Generator 2nd Thursday Market
The Stylish Scribe
Year-Round Riverside Farmer's Market

SWEETS
Bouchee Confections 
Tandem Chocolates
Dorinda's Chocolates w/ Rolled Mountain Creamery
Doughboy's Donuts
Josef's Vienna Bakery & Cafe
C's Mad Batter Bakery
Black Rock Dessert & Creamery
Icecycle Creamery & Deli
Mix Bakeshop
Batch Cupcakery
Haven on Earth Bakery (Gluten-Free)
Perenn Bakery
Beloved's Bread Bakery

***Information Subject to change.  All opinions are my own.

Photography
© Katherine Fung,
All Rights Reserved.

Categorized Under "Guides" ---> "Yearly Seasonal Guides"

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