From bird-watching to a capella: Things to do in Nevada (week of Jan. 5, 2026)

The start of the year is primetime to try new things with an open mindset and welcoming intention. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, want to learn something new, or meet new people, here are some community events across Nevada for you — no matter if you’re in Las Vegas or in Reno.

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🎉 “The Night We Met” Public Art Unveiling and Celebration — Thursday, Jan. 8 starting 11 a.m. at the Las Vegas Civic Center (525 S. Main St., Las Vegas). Join the artist for the unveiling of “The Night We Met” by Krystal Ramirez, experience the artwork up close and hear directly from the artist about her newest sculpture. Parking is available in the 500 S. Main St. garage. A two-hour validation is available at the event.

🧜‍♀️ Noche De Lotería — Friday, Jan. 9, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Dolores Huerta Resource Center (1737 Hunkins Dr., North Las Vegas). Come play Lotería in community! This is a traditional Mexican game is played similar to bingo, where a caller draws cards with icons, players mark matching images on their boards, and the first to get a set pattern (like a full row or covered their entire board) shouts “¡Lotería!” to win. It’s free to play.

🦆 Junior Ranger Birding Bonanza — Friday, Jan. 9, 8-10 a.m. at Idlewild Park (1900 Idlewild Dr., Reno) Learn about birding with a ranger at this free Junior Ranger event! You’ll learn how to identify birds, get a guided nature walk, and chat with members of the Lahontan Audubon Society. Bring water, a hat, close-toed shoes, and weather-conscious clothes. Free family-friendly event for all ages.

💃 Latin Social Dance — Friday, Jan. 9, 7-10 p.m. at Juan’s Mexican Grill (318 N Carson St., Carson City). Doors open at 7 p.m. and the night starts with Rumba dance lessons, then social dancing takes place from 8-10 p.m. The social is held on the second Friday of each month.  Bring a date or your friends. Cover is $10.

🏂 11th Annual Chris Ruby Memorial Cup — Saturday, Jan. 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Lee Canyon (Clark County). Come for a day of fun, competition, and giving back with exciting runs, good vibes, and friendly competition for riders of all ages and abilities. The Ruby Cup is held in memory of Chris Ruby and benefits the Nevada Donor Network, supporting organ donation awareness across the state. Race check-in is at 9 a.m. with racing to begin promptly at 10 a.m. Entry fee is $20 or free if you’re a registered organ donor.

🗓 Next week: Sweet Honey in the Rock Concert — Saturday, Jan. 17, 7 p.m. at the West Las Vegas Arts Center (951 W. Lake Mead Blvd., Las Vegas). Sweet Honey in the Rock is an internationally acclaimed a capella ensemble founded in 1973. Enjoy a fusion of spirituals, gospel, jazz and folk music with a theatrical flair. Tickets can be found online for $12.