Things to do in Nevada this weekend (Aug. 29-31)

Blazin Bronco, participant at the Rib Cook Off in Reno, smokin' it up. (Nugget Casino Resort on Facebook)

By Jannelle Calderón

August 25, 2025

Looking for ways to make the most of the last weekend in August? Whether you’re craving live music in the mountains, smoky barbecue in the city, stargazing in the desert, or a community potluck under blooming sagebrush, there’s something for everyone.

Red Rock Trivia — Saturday, Aug. 30 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Red Spring Picnic Area (Calico Basin area). Registration is not required, and Calico Basin does not have an entry fee. Test your knowledge on Red Rock Canyon’s human history, earth science, life science, and this month’s special category: dark skies! Feel free to bring food and drinks to enjoy during the program.

Mountain Top Honky Tonk — Saturday, Aug. 30 and Sunday, Aug. 31 at Lee Canyon. Two full days of live music, 12-7 p.m. each day. Saddle up for a weekend of live country music, ice-cold drinks, and fresh mountain air. Check out local food vendors, a beer garden, attractions, and activities for the whole family. Parking passes ($10 for a single day) and other additions (VIP packages and beer garden experience) can be purchased online.

Sharing The Sage: A Community Gathering — Friday, Aug. 29 from 5-8 p.m. at the In-Town Park in Fernley (behind China Chef by the skate park). Bring friends and a dish (optional) and experience peak bloom season for the state’s flower in a community potluck with food, poetry open mic, and sagebrush trivia. Sign up online.

The Best in the West Rib Cook Off — From Wednesday, Aug. 27 to Monday, Sept. 1 at the Victorian Square in Sparks (on Victorian Avenue between 14th Street and Pyramid Way). Often referred to as the Super Bowl of rib competitions, the event spans more than six city blocks in the heart of downtown Sparks, with two dozen of the country’s best BBQ teams competing for nearly $20,000 in prize money plus prestigious bragging rights. The event runs from Wednesday to Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m., and on Monday, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. There will also be vendors, a kids’ area, and entertainment on two stages. There is no admission fee, and the event is open to the public.

Jannelle Calderón

Jannelle Calderón is The Nevadan / El Nevadense newsletter editor. A bilingual storyteller, she’s passionate about highlighting the human side of policy and showcasing Nevada’s vibrant cultures. She previously reported for The Nevada Independent and is a graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Jannelle also writes Vegas Somos, a weekly Spanish-language newsletter dedicated to breaking down the issues that matter most to Nevada’s Latino communities.

Have a story tip? Reach Jannelle at [email protected]. For local reporting in Nevada that connects the dots, from policy to people, sign up for Jannelle's newsletters.

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