Check out these holiday shows, events and light displays if you want to get in the holiday spirit!
Snowflakes, hot chocolate, and spending time with loved ones - the holidays are all about enjoying traditions and making new memories. This year, there's no better way to experience the Reno Tahoe winter wonderland than seeing a holiday show, from classic Christmas concerts to festive family performances.
Holiday Concerts & Live Shows
Jingle Bell Rock
Don't miss this brand-new holiday spectacular, created exclusively for the iconic Eldorado Showroom featuring stars from London’s West End, including Laura Dawkes and Oliver Ormson, from Disney’s “Frozen the Musical.” Caesar's Entertainment calls this show, "Festive, fabulous and bursting with music, dance and seasonal sparkle". It’s the ultimate celebration of Christmas cheer! Shows begin Thanksgiving weekend on November 28 and continue through December 28. View showtimes and purchase tickets here.
Reno Jazz Orchestra's Home for the Holidays
Swing into the sounds of the season as the Reno Jazz Orchestra shares the stage with some of the most talented hometown stars in Reno on December 7 in Nightingale Concert Hall at the University of Nevada, Reno. From classic favorites to reimagined holiday harmonies, this festive performance will uplift your soul, warm your heart and leave you feeling merry and bright!
Siamsa - A Celtic Christmas
The entire family will love this enchanting holiday musical. Siamsa - A Celtic Christmas is the story of three young orphans searching for the light that represents the true meaning of Christmas. Get tickets to this show at the Grand Sierra Resort on Thursday, December 4.
Spirit of the Season
This holiday celebration, full of orchestral arrangements, jazzy numbers and traditional holiday music is brought to you by the Reno Phil and Reno Phil Chorus. Spirit of the Season performances light up the stage at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, December 12-14.
The Nutcracker
Don't fret - escape to a land of holiday fantasy with The Reno Dance Company's production of The Nutcracker, returning to the Grand Sierra Resort's Grand Theatre on December 14. A magical holiday classic takes the stage at the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts on December 19-21. You won't want to miss the sugar plum fairy and dancing mice in this performance of The Nutcracker, presented by AVA Ballet Theatre, featuring nationally-recognized dancers and local talent.
Santa's Top Talent
Live at the Grand Theatre, located inside the Grand Sierra Resort, don't miss this holiday spectacular where Santa and his panel of judges host the ultimate North Pole talent showdown. From acrobatic elves and dazzling lasers to high-flying aerialists and comedy antics, each act competes to win Santa’s golden sleigh bell. Featuring today’s top talent in acrobatics, stunt performance, singers, and more — including artists seen on hit television shows like X Factor, America’s Got Talent, and beyond — this festive variety show is packed with thrills, laughs, and holiday magic for the whole family. Showtimes available December 18-30.
Family Events
Holiday Lights Festival
The holiday season doesn't feel like it's underway in the Biggest Little City until the official tree lighting ceremony in downtown Reno during the Holiday Lights Festival. This year, there are two weekends to be a part of the magic - November 28-29 and December 5-6. The event is free and features live music, festive treats, photos with Santa and craft booths.
Electric Holiday Train o' Lights
All aboard the most festive train in the West! After a merry afternoon exploring Virginia City, head to the 1870 Virginia & Truckee Depot for a ride on the Electric Holiday Train o' Lights. The 40-minute narrated ride takes you to Gold Hill on a steam engine decorated with thousands of lights. The holiday train sold out for the 2024 season, so make your reservations for 2025.
The Polar Express
Climb aboard V&T Railway's diesel-powered train and enjoy a retelling of a holiday classic, The Polar Express. The one-hour round-trip excursion includes a fully staged performance with costumed actors and music, hot cocoa and holiday treats, a silver bell from Santa and a stop at the North Pole. Group reservations, private rooms and VIP tables are available for an extra special experience.
Christmas on the Comstock
Virginia City celebrates the holiday season for the entire month of December during Christmas on the Comstock with a tree lighting, holiday play, saloon crawl, parade and more.
39 North Pole Village and Sparks Hometowne Christmas Parade
Downtown Sparks is alive with the holiday spirit this season! Kick off the holiday season during 39 North Pole Village, with light displays, entertainment and an outdoor bazaar, from December 4-6. The weekend festivities continue with the tree lighting ceremony on Friday and the Christmas parade on Saturday, complete with hot cocoa, carols, and Santa himself.
Home For The Holidays
Christmas is coming early to Greater Nevada Field! This brand-new, six-night immersive holiday experience will take over the ballpark December 5-6, December 12-13 and December 19-20. Enjoy multiple unique tree lighting shows each day, browse the vendor village, and take photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Downtown Reno. Each Friday of Home for the Holidays will also have a fireworks show and each Saturday will have a drone show! For more information and tickets, click here.
Tree Lightings & Other Holiday Events
Jingle and Mingle Holiday Shopping Showcase
It's never too early to start your holiday shopping. Sip, shop and be merry at the Silver Legacy holiday shopping showcase, November 28-30. This family-friendly event features over 50 vendors, photos with Santa, seasonal drinks and more. Get a jumpstart on the festivities and cross a few people off your gift list.
Christmas on the Comstock
Virginia City celebrates the holiday season for the entire month of December during Christmas on the Comstock with a tree lighting, holiday play, saloon crawl, parade and more.
Reno Santa Crawl
Thousands of Santas take to the streets of downtown Reno for a night of holiday cheer and revelry. Get your costume and cup and get ready to ring in the holidays at the Reno Santa Crawl on December 13.
Christmas Light Displays
There's something magical and nostalgic about driving through neighborhoods, admiring Christmas lights. Are you a fan of a Clark Griswold-level light show or does a yard full of singing Santas make you giddy with holiday cheer? Make some hot chocolate and get in the car for a drive through the merriest streets in Reno Tahoe.
These holiday shows and so many other festive events in Reno Tahoe are just the way to get in the spirit of the season! Head to the events calendar so you can find other upcoming events, festivals, concerts, and more!