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Are you trying to decide what type of Independence Day celebration you’d like to attend in Northern Nevada? Here is the definitive list of all the parades, fireworks shows, and philharmonic events in the Reno, Sparks, Carson City, South Lake Tahoe and Carson Valley locations. There’s something for everyone for the 4th of July.

This 4th of July weekend is sure to be extra fun since it falls on a 3 day weekend. Events begin on Friday, July 3rd and will run through Sunday, July 5th. Here’s a list of the major events taking place around the Northern Nevada area:

Star Spangled Sparks

Since the City of Reno has decided not to have fireworks this year at San Rafael Park, Star Spangled Sparks will be your best Reno-Sparks bet for a full-throttle fireworks display. The celebration begins mid-day at the Spark Marina Park with the annual milk carton boat regatta, a kite flying contest, arts and crafts, and plenty of food and drinks. Later, the party moves to historic Victorian Square for fireworks over the Nugget. There is always live entertainment, and the fireworks will begin at 9:30pm. This promises to be a real traditional 4th of July family-friendly event and it’s free!

Virginia City 4th of July

In historic Virginia City, home of the Comstock Lode, you can enjoy the 4th of July Spectacular. This event includes a free concert and parade. The parade begins at Noon at the Fourth Ward School. Along the Virginia City boardwalk, there will be plenty of entertainment including facepainters, followed by fireworks at dusk, and best of all, it’s free!

Carson City 4th of July Celebration

The Carnival is in town in Carson City at Mills Park! Celebrate the 4th in our Capitol all weekend long with carnival rides, games, artis and crafts, plenty of classic carnival munchies, or bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the views of the majestic Sierra Nevadas. The fireworks show will begin at 9:15pm, and of course, it’s free.

Genoa Pops in the Park

Every year, the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra puts on a spectacular concert in Genoa, Nevada’s first settlement. The festivities begin at 1pm with clowns and meandering musicians. The concert is at Mormon Station State Park – the first ever settlement in Nevada. Don’t miss the opportunity to blend beaitiful weather, historical influence, and the breathtaking mountain views as you celebrate our nation’s independence.

South Lake Tahoe Fireworks – “Lights on the Lake”

Every year, South Lake Tahoe puts on an incredible display of fireworks – it is the largest synchronized fireworks display west of the Mississippi! If you’re lucky enough to have a boat, you can motor out, anchor, and then lay on your back and watch the magic right above your heads! If you’d prefer to keep your feet on land, many of the hotels offer great views of the show, as does Nevada Beach and other area beaches and parks. The fireworks will begin at 9:45pm.

A Word of Caution

As always, the 4th of July is a wonderful day in our nation’s history. However, it also can be a day where sometimes the best decisions aren’t made by everyone. My husband is a Trooper for the Nevada Highway Patrol, and often, he prefers we stay home because of the dangers associated with being out on the road on this day in particular. If you decide to go out, and you decide to drink, please designate a driver for the evening, take a cab home, or arrange for an overnight stay at one of the many hotels offering great rates for the weekend. If you decide to drive, please keep an eye on those around you. Just because you act responsibly doesn’t mean the person next you made the same sound decision. Let’s make it a great holiday, and get home safely for another wonderful tomorrow.

Happy (Early) 4th of July!