Star Spangled Sparks
Star Spangled Sparks is coming out in full force to kick off Independence Day, and there will be a lot going on in Victorian Square — everything from food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, restaurants, wine bars, and more to enjoy from 4pm-10pm. Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Star Spangled Sparks in style and then use the rest of the month to check out featured artists and performers as part of Northern Nevada’s annual Artown.
All month long: Paddles & Palettes
Using repurposed paddles from the Dragon Boat Races, local artists will be displayed in a month-long exhibit available to view in the Sparks Museum and Cultural Center from July 2-31 from 11am-4pm. https://www.facebook.com/events/687090128428222/
July 1: The Tintabulations Handbell Ensemble Kicks Off Artown in Sparks
Delighting audiences with 22 years of joyful ringing, this musical group will be announcing their presence with bells on when they play in Victorian Square on July 1 from 7pm-8pm in a free performance. https://tintabulations.com/
July 6: Chris Young Plays at the Nugget Event Center
Country artist Chris Young will be performing live in Victorian Square at the new outdoor Nugget Event Center on July 6 from 4pm-10pm. With top hits including “Gettin’ You Home”, “Tomorrow”, and “Voices”, Young has claimed eight Number 1 singles and collaborated with Vince Gill on “Sober Saturday Night”. Tickets are $25-55 and available to purchase through Ticketmaster.
July 11: Paint a Starry Night with Dana Childs
Budding artists who have a penchant for Van Gogh are invited to participate in an Artown-official event of trying to recreate the famous artist’s Starry Night. Guided by professional artist and instructor Dana Childs, artists of all abilities (but especially beginners) will use pastels to paint their own work of art. Pre-registration is required and this is open to people ages 12 and up. The class costs $45 and will be held at Copper Cat Studio on 300 Kresge Lane from 10am-1pm. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/392952644647854/
July 18: 3rd Thursday in Downtown Sparks
The community’s nonprofit, 39 North Downtown, has introduced a new monthly event in Victorian Square that combines food, entertainment, and a special focus on local artists just in time for Artown. For this particular 3rd Thursday, there will be a new Depot Pop Up Gallery and a special gallery opening at the Sparks Museum. Enjoy the festivities from 4pm-9pm. http://www.39northdowntown.com/
July 27: Release a Water Lantern in the Sparks Marina
On Saturday, July 27 from 5pm-10pm, family and friends can take part in a unique community event to celebrate life, love and happiness by participating in the Water Lantern Festival. To be held at the Sparks Marina, people can enjoy food trucks, live music and special activities, before designing their own special floating wood and rice paper lantern and launching it into the water at dusk. The cost is $30-40, and you get to keep your lantern. https://www.waterlanternfestival.com/reno.php
This is the time to gain some inspiration and unleash your creative side with all Sparks-sponsored Artown events. Try to carpool, bike, take the bus, designate a sober driver, or take an Uber if you can so you can eat, drink and be merry this Independence holiday!
— Kayla Anderson
