And just like that 2017 is almost over. In a year that seemed to blow right by, Reno has seen such good times. Now it’s time to settle in with family and prepare for the holidays.
Downtown glows even brighter between the neon lights and the sparkling decorations. Restaurants and stores offer fireplace warmth and escape from the cold, breezy streets. The lure of the shopping malls puts you in a holiday daze. How will you find a minute to take a break from hectic preparations and family reunions?
Well, as always, we have a solution for you! This weekend marks the kickoff for WinterFest Reno, a family-inclusive month-long event at Greater Nevada Field.
See, Reno can be kind of like an amusement park during different holidays. The same way the biggest little city transforms itself for Halloween, Reno fully embraces the family-friendly warmth and fun of the most wonderful time of the year. December 2017 is no different, as the stadium suddenly bursts to life as the North Pole.
Here are just a few of the fantastic events starting December 1.
Photo: WinterFest Reno Facebook
Once the sun goes down, the adventure begins. The main attraction is the Holiday Express Train Ride, a 10-minute ride from Reno to the North Pole to return Santa’s “Naughty or Nice” list back to him. The interactive story will captivate the kids, and you’ll all be in awe of the bright Christmas lights and incredible decorations. The train ride ends at Santa’s village, a life-size winter wonderland that will transport you far from Reno. The rides run from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 4 to 7 p.m. on Sunday with tickets at $10, and the whole family is invited.
Once you’re in Santa’s village, you’ll have to find St. Nick himself and get a family picture. Just remember, if there’s something special you’re wanting for Christmas this year, you’ll have to sit on the big man’s lap and tell him yourself. Santa hangs around his village during train hours before he has to head back to the workshop. Professional souvenir photos cost $15.
Then, of course, there’s ice skating. WinterFest Reno has the city’s only outdoor ice-skating rink, and what could be better than a cup of hot cocoa and an easy skate around the rink. Invite your significant other and make it a romantic winter date. Or you can bring your kids and (hopefully) not worry about hand-eye-coordination and balance issues. Either way, the ice-skating rink is a once-a-year opportunity. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for kids, plus $4 per skate rental.
Photo: WinterFest Reno Facebook
On the other hand, Greater Nevada Field is just a short walk from non-family-friendly nightlife. Once you take your date ice skating and perhaps on a nostalgic tour of Santa’s village, head to the Lincoln Lounge for some drinks and dancing. Its monthly soul night is a hit among the university crowd, and it offers a few drink specials and plenty of classic soul grooving through the old 4th Street building.
Just across the street is Louis’ Basque Corner, a great place to have a traditional basque meal of family-style lamb or paella and an amazing place to kick back with a picon punch while you warm up from the December chill.
And next door is the Depot, the converted train depot turned ultra-classy brewery and distillery with a menu of elevated bar food and drinks. The whiskey pairs pretty well with a skate on the rink or a picture with Santa, depending on the situation.
As always, one of the best things about Reno is the closeness of everything. So whether you’re taking the family for an evening at WinterFest, hitting the Freight House District with friends or heading out on the perfect winter date night, there’s still so much to do and see.
Happy first week of December! And for all the other events happening this weekend, visit our Daytime, Nightlife or Community events pages.
About the Author Bryan Akerley
Bryan was born and raised in Northern Nevada and is a graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno. When he’s not writing, he’s keeping up with pop culture as a lover of movies, TV, music and books or out exploring the area through its restaurants, bars and nightlife. Then he’ll unwind by playing the drums or piano or spending time with his corgi, Teddy. 
