Reno’s annual Artown celebration is in full swing, and this week is packed with events celebrating the arts. A.V.A. Ballet Theatre presents “Vortex, the Ballet That Rocks” this week at the Robert Z. Hawkins Amphitheater. Art Paws Reno is now in its 24th year and hosting its dog-themed art event.

Downtown’s Off The Rails event is back with Tim Snider and Wolfgang Timber on Thursday, and Animal Ark is offering summer stargazing events in partnership with UNR’s Fleischmann Planetarium. 

There are plenty more listings on our calendar. 

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Confirm events with venues before attending in case of schedule changes or cancellations. This Is Reno is not responsible for the accuracy of calendar listings, as we do not write or edit them.

Sponsored events

• Tim Snider & Wolfgang Timber @ OFF THE RAILS Free 3rd Thurs Summer Concerts. OffBeat Fest’s FREE Third Thursday Summer Concert Series rolls back into Locomotion Plaza with Tim Snider & Wolfgang Timber’s live-looping violin-flavored blend of “world-folk fusion.” July 18. Opening support from Silly Little.
• The SpongeBob Musical at Reno Little Theater. This wacky and energetic stage production follows the beloved yellow sponge and his friends in Bikini Bottom as they try to save their underwater home from impending doom. Show dates run through Aug. 11.

Editor’s picks

1. A.V.A. Ballet Theatre’s Vortex, the Ballet That Rocks. The Robert Z. Hawkins Amphitheater at Bartley Ranch Regional Park will come alive with ballet grace and passionate rock, dance and alternative music as A.V.A. Ballet Theatre presents Vortex, the Ballet That Rocks, July 19th and 20th as part of the Artown celebration. Artistic director Alexander Van Alstyne has choreographed an exciting contemporary ballet. Imagine ballerinas performing grande jetés to music by famous rock artists.
2. Art Paws Reno. Art Paws Reno is part of the city’s annual Artown Celebration, and this will be our 24th year participating. The event features K9-themed art, crafts, and other local K9-aimed businesses. Art Paws promotes responsible pet ownership and the city’s K9 culture.
3. Sand Mandala creation. Experience the creation of the Medicine Buddha Mandala at the Reno Buddhist Center. The Medicine Buddha Mandala is a sacred design that manifests the healing power of wisdom and compassion.  The Medicine Buddha mandala is used in meditation and rituals to connect with healing energy and wisdom. Viewers can watch Losang Samten create the piece.
4. Moonrise Maker Market x Art Battle. Moonrise Maker Market is a summer night vending fair from 7-10 p.m. that showcases over 70 local artists and crafters’ work in downtown Reno! Enjoy a variety of food trucks, drinks, and local art. Entry to attend and the special occurrence of ArtBattle is free. 
5. Summer Stargazing at Animal Ark. Join Animal Ark for a journey through the cosmos at its summer stargazing events. In partnership with UNR’s Fleischmann Planetarium, participants are invited to explore the wonders of the night sky on July 19 from 9 – 10:30 p.m. each evening. Nestled in the Red Rock hills, away from city lights, Animal Ark provides an optimal setting for stargazing. Expert guests from Fleischmann Planetarium will guide you through an immersive experience, delving into the mysteries of the universe, highlighting constellations and unveiling the beauty of deep sky objects.