Meteorologically (which is measured by weather patterns), springtime is already here. Astronomically (which is measured by where the Earth is in relation to the sun), springtime is still several days away.
Whether Nevadans see spring as already here, or think it’s still winter, they may be looking forward to warmer days at Lake Tahoe or are looking forward to unique Nevada trips to take during spring break. Multiple state and federal organizations, as well as media outlets, are also looking ahead to springtime, offering a look at what people traveling around Nevada this spring can expect.
Here’s a look at springtime events, weather, school schedules and allergen reports Nevadans need to know when traveling over the next several months.
What is the official first day of spring?
Meteorologically, the first day of spring is March 1. However, astronomically, the first day of spring occurs at the spring equinox, when Earth’s axis and orbit line up so that both hemispheres receive equal amounts of sunlight. This year, the spring equinox takes place on March 20.
Is spring break 3 weeks?
No, spring break is two weeks in Washoe County. Public schools in Washoe County’s spring break takes place from March 23 to April 3.
In Clark County, spring break is only one week, from March 16-20.
What are some events going on this spring?
March through May can be a great time to visit Nevada. Wildflowers bloom across the state and the weather is typically not too cold in the north, but not blazing hot yet in the south. But for people wanting to explore some of Nevada’s specific springtime events, here are a few:
Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry – The annual Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry is set to take place in Virginia City on Saturday, March 14, starting at 10 a.m. The Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry not only offers visitors a chance to eat the different preparations of bull testicles, but people can also enjoy the St. Paddy’s Day parade and costumed saloon crawl as well.
Reno Leprechaun Crawl – Get ready for the Reno Leprechaun Crawl on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Since 2013, the Reno Leprechaun Crawl has brought together over 7,000 crawlers at 29 lively spots. Kick off the fun behind Rum Bullions Bar at the Silver Legacy Resort Casino from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. People who want to participate can buy tickets at crawlreno.com for $7- $15.
Death Valley super bloom – Though most of Death Valley is in California, a small part of the national park is in Nevada. Right now, there is a super bloom going on in Death Valley, with thousands of vibrant wildflowers blossoming across the desert wilderness.
Reno Leprechaun Race – On March 15, runners and walkers can make their way through downtown Reno for the holiday-themed 5K. The race begins at Reno City Plaza at 8:30 a.m. that Sunday. People can register for the race at renorunningcompany.com. The race costs $50 for adults and $25 for participants aged 19 and younger.
The Virginia City Grand Prix takes place April 24-26. This year marks the 55th anniversary of the event, which is one of the West’s largest off-road motorcycle races.
Genoa Western Heritage Days will also take place April 24-26. The three-day festival celebrates cowboy poetry, Western music, live performances, a horse parade and more. Admission is free with some optional ticketed experiences included.
Reno River Fest takes place from May 29-31 this year at Idlewild Park. The late spring event features beer drinking, music, and multiple river events. Tickets are not yet on sale, but a three-day pass will be $15 when they go on sale. VIP passes can be over $100, but include closer access to the stages during music performances, food vouchers, and more. People interested in the event can find more information at renoriverfestival.com.
Jim Butler Days also takes place in late spring, from May 18-26. The annual celebration of Tonopah’s town creation features mining competitions, a parade, food vendors, a craft fair, and more. Most of the events are free to attend.
The Capital City Brewfest in Carson City is scheduled for McFadden Plaza on May 30, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Capital City Brewfest costs $35 per person to participate in beer tastings, or $10 for people who opt out of drinking. People interested in the festival can find more information at capitalcitybrewfest.com
Is spring a good time to travel for weather?
Though there are sometimes “Miracle Marches” in the Sierra Nevada, the long-term forecast from the Climate Prediction Center for the Reno area shows there are no significant signs that point to a wet portion this month.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac (which is correct about 80% of the time) predicts a warm, dry spring for most of Nevada. However, if travelers are planning a trip to Ely, Elko, or the Great Basin National Park, they may want to pack a waterproof jacket, the Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts wetter conditions for this part of the state.
Though the warmer, drier weather in Northern Nevada means travel over Donner Pass into California and trips to Lake Tahoe may be easier this spring, it also means travelers may want to stock up on allergy medicine and be fire ready before their trips. The lack of snow this winter could mean worse allergens.
Why are allergies so bad in the spring?
Spring allergies happen when the body interprets plant pollen as a threat and protects itself by reacting with defenses like sneezing, itching and fevers. While spring allergies have long annoyed people who have experienced them, experts said they could be even worse now than they were years ago.
Climate change has made the freeze-free growing season for plants (including plants that produce pollens people are allergic to) longer, according to Climate Central. Reno, in particular, has experienced one of the most significant increases in growing season length, with an increase of over 60 days since the 1970s, Climate Central said.
That means people traveling around Nevada may want to bring allergy medication with them.
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