Hot August Nights
Cars and cool cruisin'
The Biggest Little City shifts into high gear for Hot August Nights as thousands of visitors pay tribute to the exquisitely powerful automobiles and electrifying music of the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s and early ‘80s. Considered one of the world’s premier classic car events, more than 5,000 vehicles from this golden era of design are showcased with activities all over Reno and Sparks during Hot August Nights. Restored hot rods and sexy muscle cars give enthusiasts a first-hand experience of popular decades gone by.
Hot August Nights Schedule
Taking place each year during the first week of August, Hot August Nights is a must-attend event for car and music enthusiasts alike. Thousands flock to the Reno Tahoe area for free live headline entertainment, show-n-shine competitions, nightly cruises, drag races, loads of vendors and the popular Hot August Nights car auction.
It all kicks off on Friday in historic Virginia City with the Official Hot August Nights Kickoff Event where you will take a step back in time to revel in the rumbling engines and nostalgic tunes of yesteryear. A short (and scenic) 30-minute drive from Reno, the Comstock town comes alive as it hosts show-n-shines and a poker walk, while live music rings through the streets throughout the day. Following the event, there are countless opportunities to experience all that Hot August Nights has to offer in Reno and Sparks throughout the rest of the weekend and next week. From drag racing in Victorian Square to Celebrity Show-n-Shines in downtown Reno, there is something for everyone in the Hot August Nights schedule.
With everything happening during event week, you may have a lot of questions, especially if you have not been to our area before. You can find Hot August Nights Visitor Information like hotel accommodations, weather and more, but make sure to look early as reservations are placed nearly a year in advance!
Due to the fact that the event takes place throughout Reno and Sparks, and extends to Virginia City and Carson City, it may be overwhelming to decide which events to attend. The Hot August Nights Map will give you the most up-to-date location of events and where to take your hot rod for a cruise! Learn more about the official Hot August Nights Venues.
Hot August Nights Events
Do you have a car to show off and want a chance to win some cash and prizes? Be sure to check out the variety of Hot August Nights Show-n-Shine Competitions taking place at many of the venues. Most offer daily cash prizes with overall champions awarded at the end of the week. Maybe you are looking for more of an adrenaline rush? Take your chance at the Drag Races and Burnouts. These two events are fantastic opportunities to test your driving skills, with the courses ranging from novice to expert. You can find more information about the dates, times and requirements to enter at Hot August Nights and individual venue sites.
Live Music
Dance and sing along to your favorite songs at free concerts held all week at a variety of venues around Reno and Sparks. Greg Golden Band is kicking off the event at the University of Nevada Outdoor Stage presented by Grand Sierra Resort on Monday, August 4 with more performances at the Peppermill Resort from DJ Axle, Vincky Tafoya & The Big Beat, and Breakfast Klub. The fun continues all week with Lee Rocker of The Stray Cats, Boogie Knight, and Tower of Power. Hot August Nights wraps up with DJ Steve West and LOVERBOY on Saturday August 9 at the University of Nevada.
Show-n-Shines and Cruises
The hardest decision when attending Hot August Nights is deciding how to see as many cars as possible! The ROW, Atlantis Casino Resort Spa and Grand Sierra Resort each host daily show-n-shine events, with awards in a variety of categories. Head to Victorian Square in downtown Sparks for the Ultimate Classic Car Competition presented by the Nugget Casino Resort daily. Cruise over to Grand Sierra Resort and downtown Reno to check out the Show-n-Shine Competition. When the sun goes down, you can bet these cars will be cruising in both Reno and Sparks. Victorian Square, downtown Reno and any of the resort casinos are great spots to get a great view of the cars.
MAG Auctions
Motorsport Auction Group is a collector car auction featuring muscle cars, street rods, classic cars and vintage cars. If you’re lucky enough to be in the market for one of these classic automobiles, or just a car enthusiast who truly appreciates the art of these beautiful cars, the MAG Auction is an event you don’t want to miss. Some of the featured cars in this year’s auction include a 1956 Ford F100, a 1971 Chevrolet C10 Custom, a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Coupe, and a 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe. The 2025 MAG Auctions will be held at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, August 7-9, with one-day and 3-day passes available for purchase at the door.
Drag Races and Burnouts
Watch as drivers put some serious pedal to the metal during the Hot August Nights Drag Races & Burnouts, held in the west parking lot of the Nugget Casino Resort. Don't have a 1979 or older vehicle? No problem. All makes and models will now have the opportunity to participate every night of the drag races this year. Drivers will have the chance to show off their car’s horsepower on the 1/16 of a mile track, and it’s your chance to cheer on your favorites!
Big Boy’s Toy Store and Dazzling Diva
This is NOT your average toy store! Get ready to shop more than 320 booths selling the latest parts and accessories for your classic car at the Big Boy’s Toy Store, inside the Reno Events Center in downtown Reno. From hot rod builders to stereos and everything in between, this is a car lover’s dream. In the market for a different kind of accessory? Make your way to Dazzling Diva, a tantalizing and unique boutique, where you can find clothing, jewelry and more.
Diners and Drive-ins
All of this action is going to work up an appetite. Take a break from celebrating classic cars and rock ‘n’ roll music while digging in at one of these diners or drive-ins.
Beefy’s is an iconic burger shack serving hamburgers made with beef that comes straight from a local butcher shop! Pair that classic or unique burger with a handcrafted milkshake or one of their 30 beers on tap. This quaint hole-in-the-wall diner is a must while visiting Reno Tahoe. Come at the right time during Hot August Nights and you must just see a few hot rods cruising through Midtown.
The Gold ‘N Silver Inn is a timeless eatery in Reno that has been serving customers for over 60 years and its employees ensure that you feel welcome, 24 hours a day. The diner’s Lemonade Pork Chops was featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. And be sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with one of their giant milkshakes!
From juicy burgers and unique milkshakes to tacos and burritos, Scoopers Drive-In offers everything you need to satisfy your fast food craving. Located in Sparks, Scoopers Drive-In is a great place to drop by for a quick bite while at Hot August Nights.
You’ll love Black Bear Diner’s cozy cabin environment and their generous portions are sure to satisfy your hunger. Make sure to leave room for their dessert selection, which includes cobblers, pies, bread pudding and more!
Reno Tahoe’s love of cars isn’t just limited to Hot August Nights. See how you can immerse yourself in the area’s vibrant car culture year-round.
With the full schedule of events taking place in Reno Tahoe, it’s easy to join the party and be a part of this internationally-renowned event.