To make Christmas traditions come alive, residents and visitors in Reno, Nevada can take their families to several holiday festivities. Keeping kids entertained at these events is no problem, because several Reno-area Christmas venues cater specifically to children of all ages. For those planning on spending the holidays in northern Nevada, there are several venues to check out.
Let children incorporate the timeless story of the Nutcracker into their Christmas holiday season with a visit to the A.V.A. Ballet Theater's annual performance of the classic tale. The theater, named for founder Alexander Van Alstyne, brings professional ballet productions to northern Nevada and parts of northern California. With performances that run throughout the month of December, the ballet features a little girl, her Christmas gift, dancing mice, fairies and a handsome prince. Tickets for children under 12 start at $21 and adult tickets start at $26 (2010).
A.V.A. Ballet Theatre
73 West Plumb Lane
Reno, Nevada 89509
775-762-5165
avaballet.com
A longstanding community tradition in Reno's Hidden Valley neighborhood, the Parade of Lights takes up several residential streets. Homeowners decorate their homes, garages, doors, trees and windows with festive holiday lights and décor. With lights synchronized to music, animated displays and handcrafted outdoor decorations, this neighborhood brings the Christmas spirit to northern Nevada. A trip to the Parade of Lights can become a Christmas tradition for Reno families and visitors. Families can pack up some popcorn and hot chocolate and listen to Christmas music in the car as they tour the area. Visitors can even vote for favorite displays.
Hidden Valley Homeowners Association
P.O. Box 14085
Reno, NV 89507
775-857-3477
hiddenvalleyhomeowners.org
For almost a quarter of a century, the nearby town of Sparks has hosted a Christmas festival at the first of December. With a tree-lighting ceremony to start the celebration, visitors can also participate in a storybook reading for children and visit the Christmas arts and crafts display. Children will especially enjoy the Christmas parade through downtown sparks. Afterward, they can line up to visit Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.
Sparks City Hall
431 Prater Way
Sparks, NV 89431
775-353-2350
ci.sparks.nv.us
