The Most “Nevada” Ways to Celebrate Nevada Day

The great state of Nevada will celebrate its 156th birthday on October 31 and of course, we have plenty of ways for you to join in the fun! There will be a few socially distanced events sprinkled throughout the region, or plan your own authentic Nevada-themed weekend (hot springs and Picon Punch, anyone?). Get inspired to help the Silver State ring in another great year of statehood! And as always, please refer to our health and safety pages and rules of the trail for the most up-to-date traveler information in Nevada.

Ways to Celebrate the Silver State

• 2020 Nevada Day Golf Tournament – Carson City, October 24
• Carson City Rail Bike Tours – Carson City, October 31
• Ghost Train – Carson City, October 30-31
• Pumpkin Palooza – Reno-Sparks, October 9-31
• 13 Nights of Fright – Sparks, October 19-31
• Balloon Launch – Carson City, October 31
• Reverse Parade – Carson City, October 31
• Stewart Indian School Tours & Demonstrations – Carson City, October 31

Your Nevada Day Must-Do List

• Plan a road trip to the Black Rock Desert via the Burner Byway.
• Raise a glass and celebrate Nevada at 1864 Tavern, named in honor of the Silver State’s statehood.
• Soak in one of our many hot springs (we have more than any other state)… remember, the fun is in the hunt so no geotagging!
• Take a step back in time as you stroll the wooden sidewalks in Virginia City, home of the Comstock Lode.
• Raise a glass in the spirit of Nevada’s pioneering spirit at Battle Born Beer’s 5th Street location.
• Explore the state’s history in the state capital, Carson City.
• Spend the afternoon at Lake Tahoe – hike to a viewpoint or get on the water via kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
• Have an “only in Nevada” meal – try traditional Basque food at Louis’ Basque Corner (don’t forget the Picon Punch!), loosen your belt for all-you-can-eat sushi or a meal at one of Reno’s many buffets, or indulge in a large plate of huevos rancheros from Peg’s Glorified Ham n Eggs in downtown Reno.
• Cheer on the Nevada Wolfpack as they battle the UNLV Rebels for the Fremont Cannon in the brand new Allegiant Stadium.
• Get “Icky” at one of Great Basin Brewing’s two Reno-Sparks locations. Cheers!
• Try your luck and place your bets at a casino.
• Snap a photo at one of these iconic, Instagram-worthy locations around Reno Tahoe.
• Plan a day trip and explore one of these Nevada Historical Landmarks.

Nevada Facts

• Nevada is known as the Silver State because of the 1859 discovery of the Comstock Lode in Virginia City.
• It is also known as the Battle Born State because its location and mineral wealth made it an attractive potential Union state during the Civil War.
• Mark Twain began his career as a reporter for the Virginia City Territorial Enterprise.
• The ichthyosaur is Nevada’s state fossil – you can learn more about this prehistoric reptile at Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park.
• Frank Sinatra once owned the Cal-Neva in Crystal Bay.
• Blue jeans were invented by Reno-based tailor, Jacob Davis.
• The original Reno Arch was installed in 1926 (it can now be found on Lake Street) and the current arch was erected in 1987.