Welcome to our Fall Special Edition, Nevadans!

To me, fall is a second spring—a time to reset, recharge, and reconnect. It’s also one of the best times to explore and fall in love with our community and its diverse cultures.

Some say Nevadans don’t have strong roots, that we’re too transient to build community. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Across the state, there are festivals, workshops, concerts, and celebrations that bring people together.

If you’ve been feeling isolated or divided, this is your sign to step outside, try something new, and connect with others.

See you out there!

Jannelle Calderón

Newsletter Editor, The Nevadan / El Nevadense

What’s happening across Nevada

A Catrina and her ofrenda (altar) for her family members. (Anton Romaniuk/Shutterstock)

Southern Nevada Highlights

🌺 Create-A-Catrina Workshop Series
Fridays, Oct. 3, 10, 17, and 24 | 5–8 p.m. | Winchester Dondero Cultural Center
Learn how to make your own Catrina sculpture from scratch in this four-part workshop. Free with online registration. Space is limited, and participants should attend all sessions.

🎃 Summerlin Library Outdoor Fall Festival
Saturday, Oct. 4 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Summerlin Library
Enjoy live music, pumpkin decorating, food trucks, and family-friendly fun with arts, crafts, and character visits.

💃 Alma Fuego: A Tribute to Selena
Saturday, Oct. 4 | 7 p.m. | Sammy Davis Jr. Festival Plaza
A free night of music and nostalgia honoring the Queen of Tejano music.

🎺 ¡Viva el Mariachi!
Thursday, Oct. 9 | 6–8 p.m. | Clark County Library
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with performances by young mariachi musicians from local schools. Free admission.

📚 Las Vegas Book Festival
Saturday, Oct. 18 | 10 a.m.–6 p.m. | Historic Fifth Street School
Meet authors, artists, and creators, including a panel of Latino comic book artists and a hands-on art workshop with Steven “Crusty Vato” Pacheco.

💀 Sugar Skull Workshop
Saturday, Oct. 25 | 1–3 p.m. | Charleston Heights Arts Center
Design and decorate your own sugar skull in celebration of Día de los Muertos. All supplies included. $15 for ages 7+. Register online.

🤠 Beatty Days Festival
Friday–Sunday, Oct. 31–Nov. 2 | Cottonwood Park, Beatty
A true Nevada celebration featuring parades, cook-offs, cowboy contests, and award-winning chili.

🕯️ Día de los Muertos Festival
Saturday, Nov. 1 | 3–9 p.m. | Carolyn G. Goodman Plaza
Enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, artisan vendors, and community altars honoring loved ones.

🎭 24th Annual Life in Death Festival
Saturday–Sunday, Nov. 1–2 | 4–9 p.m. | Winchester Dondero Cultural Center
Celebrate Día de los Muertos with performances, poetry, art, workshops, and traditional ofrendas.

Northern Nevada Highlights

📖 Nuestra América: Stories of 30 Inspiring Latinos
Thursday, Oct. 2 | 11 a.m. | Washoe County Library
A free event with Smithsonian educators highlighting Latinos who have shaped US history and culture. RSVP online.

🛠️ Fall Swap Meet
Sunday, Oct. 5 | 6:30 a.m.–2 p.m. | Baldini’s Casino, Sparks
Find tools, car parts, and home goods while connecting with neighbors.

🎶 Andy y Su Orquesta Callao LIVE
Friday, Oct. 17 | 7 p.m. | Reno Public Market
Dance to live Latin music and enjoy authentic eats from local vendors.

📜 Mark Twain Days Festival
Thursday–Sunday, Oct. 16–19 | Brewery Arts Center, Carson City
Celebrate the wit and wisdom of Mark Twain with readings, exhibits, and family events in this four-day festival.

🚂 Harvest Train
Saturday–Sunday, Oct. 18–19 | 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | Nevada State Railroad Museum
Ride vintage trains, visit a pumpkin patch, and take part in STEAM workshops. Tickets available online or at the gate.

🎉 Nevada Day Parade & Celebration
Saturday, Nov. 1 | 6 a.m.–6 p.m. | Downtown Carson City
Every October, since 1938, Nevadans turn their attention to the state capital, home of the “official” Nevada Day Parade to celebrate the founding of the state on October 31, 1864.