Story and Photos by Brianna Sullivan
Last Tuesday evening, Rotary Club of Reno hosted their 25th annual Reno Mardi Gras, Reno’s biggest Fat Tuesday celebration and the largest fundraiser for Nevada’s oldest rotary club.
Entering through giant purple, pink, and gold curtains, attendees were instantly transported from the Reno Events Center to New Orleans. Volunteers handed out Mardi Gras beads, themed wine glasses, and event programs.
With 300 wines, beers, and bourbons to choose from, and dishes from over 20 Reno restaurants, there was something for everyone. The venue layout was broken down by beverage distributor, and more than 100 silent auction items lined the middle of the room. Items up for bid ranged from lunch with Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve to gourmet food baskets or a one week European vacation.
In addition to the wine and food booths edging the room, there also was a beer garden, VIP seating area, and even a “Bourbon Street.” Live entertainment included acrobats and stilt walkers, and DJ Fierce played music while guests enjoyed free Mardi Gras themed photos by Tap Snap Photo Booth. A raffle awarded two winners a wheelbarrow full of assorted wine.
See more photos of the event from Tim Conzachi, the official event photographer: http://clients.conzachiphoto.com/gallery/renomardigras2017/home
More information on Rotary Club of Reno’s Mardi Gras can be found at: https://renorotary.ejoinme.org/renomardigras2017
During the 2015-2016 fiscal year, Rotary Club of Reno donated more than $155,000 to global and community service projects. For more information on the rotary club or to become a member, email [email protected] or visit renorotaryclub.org
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Bri is a recent Reno transplant, originally from Montana, and excited to explore the city and highlight local businesses and events. She is a full-time pharmacist, but enjoys writing and photography. She also has a personal blog.
