Carson City and Reno Host Statewide Celebrations Marking Nevada’s 162nd Anniversary
Nevada’s annual statehood celebration brings a full weekend of events to Carson City and Reno, including a parade, hot air balloons, a powwow, and chances to explore local history.
Observed this year on Friday, October 30, the milestone is marked on Saturday, October 31, as 162 years since Nevada became a state. Saturday, October 31, seals the official anniversary date.
Nevada Day Parade Steps off Saturday Morning
The 88th Annual Nevada Day Parade steps off at 10 a.m. Saturday, starting at William and North Carson streets before traveling south along Carson Street. This year’s official theme is Pumpkins, Pioneers and Tall Tales,
with author Steven Saylor serving as grand marshal.
Early risers can catch a hot air balloon launch scheduled for 8 a.m. near Carson Mall, weather permitting. While the balloon launch is free for the public, Carson Mall has announced parking rates of $10 for regular vehicles and $50 for RVs. Parade vendors operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. along Carson Street between Robinson and Proctor streets, while the Kid Market & Adventure Zone runs during the same hours in the parking lot at 200 S. Curry St.
Organizers have designated limited accessible seating on a first-come, first-served basis at the Carson Street vehicle pullout between Robinson and Spear streets and at a designated area at Max Casino, recommending that attendees arrive early. Comprehensive traffic management plans and street and road closures for the 88th Annual Nevada Day Parade remain in effect throughout the downtown corridor.
Runners Gather for Nevada Day Classic Events
Athletes and runners gather Saturday for the 37th annual Nevada Day Classic, centered on Curry Street at McFadden Plaza in Carson City. The 8K run kicks off at 8 a.m., immediately followed by the 2-mile run/walk at 8:10 a.m.
For participants finalizing logistics, packet pickup and registration are available Friday from 1 to 4:30 p.m. at the Brewery Arts Center, located at 449 W. King St. Late registration reopens Saturday from 6:45 to 7:50 a.m. at the start and finish area. Registration fees at packet pickup or on race day are $50 for the 8K and $40 for the 2-mile event, with children aged 12 and younger admitted for $10 across either distance.
History enthusiasts can explore industrial heritage nearby. The Nevada State Railroad Museum at 2180 S. Carson St. operates steam train rides using the historic V&T Locomotive No. 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with individual rides lasting approximately 30 to 35 minutes. Train fares are $12 for ages 12 and older, $6 for ages four through 11 as well as museum members, and free for children three and younger, with tickets sold separately from general museum admission.
Meanwhile, the Nevada State Museum at 600 N. Carson St. hosts live Coin Press No. 1 demonstrations from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday inside the historic Carson City Mint.
Cultural Gatherings at the Nevada Day Powwow
Honoring Indigenous heritage, the Nevada Day Powwow runs Friday through Sunday at the MAC, located at 1860 Russell Way in Carson City, showcasing traditional Native American and First Nations dancing and singing.
Grand entries are scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, and noon Sunday. Admission to the powwow is entirely free, welcoming visitors of all ages for the multi-day cultural gathering.
