Special events and activities enhance our community by energizing public spaces. From cultural festivals and art installations to music concerts and local markets, events bring people together and celebrate diversity in our community. For event promoters we have a variety of resources to help you bring amazing events to the City. 

Special Events

Is your event being held on public property such as a City of Reno park, plaza or will it need a road closure?

Learn more about Special Events

Special Event Calendar

Special Activities

Is your event being held on private property at a privately owned business indoors or in the parking lot of the business?

Learn more about Special Activities

Additional Permit Options

• Film Permits
• Banners and Signs Permits
• Residential Block Party Permits
• Believe Sign Permits
• Arch Lighting Permits
• Street/Lane Closures Permit
• Free Speech Notifications

Additional Permits

Special Event Sponsorship 

The City of Reno offers Special Event Sponsorships to support events that bring our community together. Funded by Room Tax Dollars, these sponsorships help cover City service costs for permitted events within Reno's City limits.

What qualifies as a Special Event? Any planned gathering of 75 or more people on public property, or activities impacting public spaces that need City management for safety and coordination. Think parades, street fairs, music events, races, circuses, community celebrations, trade shows, and more!

How does it work?

• Submit your application.
• Applications are reviewed annually by the Special Event Sponsorship Committee and City Council.
• Events must be permitted and approved to be eligible for funding.
• Sponsorships are not guaranteed.

Apply for Sponsorship

Free Speech

• Free Speech Notification
• Free Speech Do's and Don'ts
• Free Speech Zones in Wingfield Park
• Free Speech Zones in Idlewild Park

District Activation Pilot Program

Applications open through March 9, 2026 - District Activation Pilot Program Application

The District Activation Pilot Program supports new, recurring events that bring energy, creativity, and connection to Reno's districts. Building on the success of the Reno Redevelopment Agency's initial Downtown Plaza Activations, this expanded program invites event promoters to pilot inclusive, high-quality programming in the Brewery District, Riverwalk District, and Midtown District. The goal of this program is to strengthen neighborhood identity, support local businesses, and create memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Through funding and hands-on collaboration, the Reno Redevelopment Agency is investing in district placemaking that reflects Reno's creative spirit and encourages consistent, community-driven use of public space. 

Program Highlights

• Funding support for new, free, and publicly accessible events
• Priority for recurring or multi-date activations (weekly, monthly, or quarterly)
• Eligible locations in the Brewery, Riverwalk, or Midtown Districts
• Awards typically range from $1,000-$10,000, with up to $20,000 per activation
• An activation window from June 2026 through June 2027

Together, these activations will help animate Reno's districts with concerts, markets, art experiences, and neighborhood gatherings - building vibrant places where community life can thrive. 

Applications open through March 9, 2026 - District Activation Pilot Program Application

Important Forms and Links

• Neighborhood Notification
• BELIEVE Sculpture Lighting/Special Event FAQ Sheet 
• Insurance Requirements for Special Events
• Facility Reservation Form - Contact the Reno Parks and Recreation office at 775-657-4654 to reserve your park prior to submitting your application

Submit Your Event to the City of Reno's Event Calendar

Are you hosting an event in Reno? If so, you may be eligible to have it featured on the City’s Events Calendar. This is a great way to share your event with the community and highlight what’s happening around town. To qualify for inclusion, your event must meet the following criteria:

• Takes place on public property
• Is open to the public
• Has received sponsorship from the City of Reno

If your event meets all of the above, submit your details and help us promote all the exciting things happening in the heart of Reno!