Artown – Reno’s Best Art Festival

For the entire month of July, Reno is Artown! The National Endowment for the Arts regards Artown as one of the most comprehensive arts festivals in the country. Combining the vibrant feel and live performances of a music festival with outdoor art exploration and creativity, Artown features a packed calendar of over 500 activities including live music and dancing from headlining artists at stages throughout the city, theater performances, art walks featuring visual arts from famous artists to local creators, workshops where you can create your own art and much more. Transforming the entire city into an artistic haven, Artown combines world-renowned artists with Reno’s own local talent.

The Biggest (Little) Art Festival in Reno

Experience fun for the whole family and celebrate all that the arts have to offer. Event highlights include opening and closing night concerts, the Monday music series, movies in the park, summer concerts, dancing in the park, art shows and more – and the majority of events are free to enjoy. Artown takes over venues all over Reno, from downtown Reno and Bartley Ranch Regional Park to the Reno Riverwalk and Wingfield Park along the Truckee River. With so many different experiences of music, dance and art to take in all month long, deciding what spots to visit and shows to catch in July takes creativity all by itself.

Visit the Artown website for the current schedule of activities and performances, including special performances before and after the event.

Reno Tahoe Art Beyond Reno Festivals

With sculpture gardens, 100+ murals and a variety of unique museums, Reno is building a reputation as a true arts destination. In addition to Artown, there are various Reno events throughout the year that highlight arts and culture all over Reno and Lake Tahoe in the destination. Visitors are also encouraged to discover hidden gems on their own. Find your inspiration at art events and cultural spots throughout the city.

Make the most of your event experience with this guide to Artown

Opening Night Concert

Artown kicks off on July 1 at Wingfield Park with a performance by two-time Grammy Winners, Ranky Tanky. An American musical ensemble based in Charleston, S.C., Ranky Tanky specializes in jazz-influenced arrangements of traditional Gullah music. You won’t want to miss the spirit and energy they bring to the stage for Artown’s opening night.

Monday Night Music Series

There is no shortage of music to experience during Artown and a favorite event each year is the Monday Night Music Series. This year’s free Monday night series will include Eli Paperboy Reed, Laurel Canyon, David Hayes, Rob Ickes and Trey Hensley, and The Soul Rebels.

Movies in the Park

Grab your beach chair and pack a picnic for Movies in the Park, each Friday night in July at Wingfield Park, starting at 9 p.m. This year’s series includes favorites such as Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Goonies and The Princess Bride. The final night will be Short Films with a showing of award-winning short films. This is a free event with food and beverages available for purchase.

Art Workshops

For those looking for hands-on learning, the art-filled month has so much to offer. You can find workshops to try your hand at creating mosaics, painting or making a stained glass masterpiece.

Closing Night Celebration

Critically acclaimed brass sensations, The Soul Rebels will give this year’s Artown event a closing night you won’t soon forget. The Soul Rebels expand upon pop music and the brass tradition of New Orleans, blending funk and soul with elements of hip-hop, jazz and rock all within a brass band context. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. at Wingfield Park.