Photos: Dancing in the Streets celebrates live music, art with record attendance

Photos by Mary Claire Boucher & Cesar Lopez

An official Artown event, Dancing in the Streets returned to Midtown this year bigger and better than ever. From 4 to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 13, eight live music venues featured bands playing everything from classic rock and roll, Africana and country tunes to DJ-powered EDM jams. 

Perhaps the most iconic stage was near the Midtown roundabout. Two burner-style vans were in the parking lot, including one with a Golden Gate Bridge design adorning the top, where the DJ spun his set. This corner was filled with people of all ages dancing to top hits, many with drinks in hand.

There were also quite a few roller skaters throughout, probably coming from the track around the roundabout that encouraged bladers and skaters to bring their gear and show off.

Another popular corner was the live stage and drink vendors outside of Piñon and Noble Pie on Center Street. A rotation of bands took the stage all night long, offering a variety of artists and styles.

Some stages even saw comedians showing off their craft.

A key difference this year was that the City of Reno closed off traffic from California Avenue to Mt. Rose Street along South Virginia Street. This allowed more than 200 vendors to set up in the middle of the street, serving food, drinks, ice cream and more. This simple change made the event feel more cohesive, with vendors stationed from stage to stage instead of traveling from destination to destination.

To keep everyone feeling safe, free rides were offered through RTC from 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. for those attending. Plus, the Bird app gave $5 to those using their scooters to get to and from the event.

Pineapple Pedicabs was also in attendance for those whose legs were tired of walking and needed a lift from one side of the event to the other.

There was a strong emphasis on community collaboration for Dancing in the Streets. Many local businesses and community artists came out to sell goods and show off their skills. 

There was a little something for everyone at the all-ages event including dance lessons and tumbling classes, plus street performers in full costume showing off their own cultures and dance styles. 

Many area businesses got on board by staying open late for customers to shop and dine, in many cases luring attendees in with street signs.

Entrance to the event was free, but food and drink cost extra whether ducking into Kauboi Izakaya for Japanese fare or diving into a crepe from Oliver’s Organic French Crepes food truck. 

Event organizers said the cost for the event was the highest yet, and they hope community members will help donate to cover costs.

When the streets cleared, and the music ended, those looking to party late at night headed into Midtown establishments to keep the party going.