Reno River Festival

The Reno River Festival kicks off the summer events season in downtown Reno with something for the entire family. Originally founded in 2003 to celebrate the opening of the Truckee River Whitewater Park, a park that’s been home to many of the nation’s top whitewater athletes and whitewater competitions over the years, the festival has happened every year since and now draws over 40,000 people each year! The festival is a unique three-day event of wet and wild fun, including live music, food, carnival rides, craft beer and lots of interactive summer and outdoor experiences. For information on dates for this year’s festival, check out the events page.

Reno River Festival Activities

Combining a music festival, outdoor fun and (literally) making a splash, the Reno River Festival has a little of everything. Shop for locally made art and gifts from over 100 creators at the Vendor Village, grab a bite to eat with more than 20 visiting local vendors and food trucks, and explore Reno’s drink scene at the Craft Beer and Seltzer Experience. Listen to live music at MusicFest, an outdoor festival featuring over 20 headlining country artists and up-and-coming performers alike. Get your adrenaline pumping at the Reno Tahoe Adventure Park’s collection of rides, obstacle courses, carnival games, and more. Experience the most unique bike ride in Northern Nevada at the Reno River Roll – it’s a costumed concert on wheels that includes a live band on bicycles! And the River Festival wouldn’t be the River Festival without a healthy spirit of competition – challenge your friends at the Reno River Festival Cornhole Championships or get your feet wet at The Great Reno River Rally, a guided rafting tour down the Truckee River!

Experience the Reno River Festival, Reno’s Summer Kickoff

Experience a fun-filled weekend for the whole family celebrating the versatility and beauty of downtown Reno and the Truckee River. Your festival entry fee gets you access to a whole calendar of events – and the festival at the river is dog-friendly, so you can even bring along your furry friends! Take a look at our guide to the Reno River Festival to discover all the best food, can’t-miss events, and local tips. Check the Reno River Festival’s website for a complete schedule.